Interpreters must have an understanding of culture. This starts with understanding ones own culture and then undersdtanding the culture of the target language group and even the providers'. We all know that in different cultures folks have separate, values, practices, perceptions, and health related beliefs from our own. This can impact treatment in a medical setting. Since one of the functions of the interpreter is to be a cultural broker, then knowing and understanding the different cultures one may work with is very important.
There are dimensions of culture. These are such things as values, norms, beliefs, attitudes, foods, eating habits, dress or appearance, language, and relationships. Understanding all of these and how together they form the cultural identity of your client and his or her client is key to having a successful interpretation. In short, cuklture impacts communication.
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