On managing dyadic sequences in triadic clinician-patient-interpreter interaction

“Dyadic” monolingual sequences involving the mediator and one participant alone seem crucial in medical interaction, but may hinder talk that is in fact triadic. For this reason, dyadic talk has raised debate in dialogue interpreting literature. In this contribution, we look at dyadic sequences in two data-sets, one with interpreting taking place on a regular basis, the other in which interpreting is rarely provided and the mediators less experienced. The data show that while dyadic sequences occur in both settings, their handling appears effective in the former and highly noneffective in the latter. Our analysis highlights reasons for (non-) effectiveness and allows for suggestions to both mediators and clinicians to improve their management of such a complex talk practice.