The Triple Subjectivity

Through the use of interpreters, qualitative research is confronted with a triple subjectivity, which makes methodological adjustments in data collection and evaluation necessary. Squires (2009, p. 3) determines four criteria for interpreter use in qualitative research: “conceptual equivalence”, “translator and interpreter credentials”, “role of the translator or interpreter during the research process” and “considerations for different qualitative approaches”.These criteria are used to reflect on a qualitative interview study with refugees on the experience of health and illness in the foreign living environment. The authors work out examples of successful and challenging interpreting situations and present them on the basis of individual interview passages. Finally, recommendations for the use of interpreters are derived from these examples.