What are the characteristics of professional boundaries in interpreting?

Maintaining a respectful distance is crucial in interpreting as it helps preserve the professional integrity of the interpreter-client relationship. Professional boundaries ensure that interpreters remain impartial and focused solely on facilitating communication between parties, rather than becoming personally involved in the situation.

This characteristic supports the ethical standards of interpreting, where the interpreter's role should be clear and defined. A respectful distance allows interpreters to manage their emotional involvement effectively, ensuring that they do not project their own biases or feelings onto the interpreting situation. This approach plays a vital role in maintaining neutrality and professionalism, which is essential for the trust and effectiveness of the interpreting process.

In contrast, fostering close personal relationships, sharing personal life stories, and engaging in dual relationships can blur the lines between professional and personal interactions, potentially compromising the integrity and effectiveness of the interpreter's work. These practices can lead to conflicts of interest, bias, and a lack of objectivity, which are detrimental to the interpreting profession.