Abstract

Over the past decade, research has demonstrated that sign language interpreters are experiencing stress and burnout at high levels, causing them to prematurely leave the profession (Schwenke, 2012; Dean & Pollard, Jr., 2001; Heller, Stansfield, Stark, & Langholtz, 1986). Interpreters are at risk for developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) (Gerber et al., 2016) due to factors such as emotional exhaustion, dissatisfaction, high demands on the job (Dean & Pollard, Jr., 2001), and job boredom (Harju, Hakanen, & Schaufeli, 2014). Theorists explain how workplace environmental variables predict stress related to job boredom through the demand-control schema (Dean & Pollard, Jr., 2001) and conservation of resources (Harju, Hakanen, & Schaufeli, 2014). Theorists advocate for a comprehensive approach to deal with work-related stress by involving both the employer and the individual (Dean & Pollard, Jr., 2001; Maslach & Jackson, 1981). High levels of physical activity protects and buffers stressful events (Gerber et al., 2016). Job crafting can reduce stressful conditions related to job boredom, sustaining the well being of an employee (Harju, Hakanen, & Schaufeli, 2016). New interpreters entering into the video remote educational interpreting profession can benefit from understanding the physiological consequences of stress related to job boredom and specific interventions aimed at building resilience to fighting stress. This action research project evaluates using physical exercise and job crafting as a way for me to combat stress related to job boredom in the video remote educational setting.

Exit Requirement

Action Research

Date of Award

8-29-2020

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Interpreting Studies

Committee Chair

Elisa Maroney

Committee Member

Amanda Smith

Keywords

Sign language interpreting, physical exercise, job boredom, job crafting

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