Date of Award
Fall 9-3-2024
Document Type
Open Access Thesis
Degree Name
Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Jim Theisen, PhD, LP
Second Advisor
Trisha Hopkins, PhD, LP
Third Advisor
Rachelle Hansen, PhD, LP
Abstract
The use of language interpreters is a primary solution for providing inclusive language services when conducting psychological assessments for people with limited English proficiency. However, this approach has limitations that have negatively affected the ability of clients with limited English proficiency to comprehend assessment results and adhere to recommendations. The purpose of this study was to improve the current understanding of effective methods for communicating assessment results to persons with limited English proficiency (PLEP) and working with language interpreters. Eight participants were interviewed about their current methods of communicating results and working with language interpreters during a feedback session. Consensual Qualitative Research was used as a qualitative method to analyze the data obtained from the participants. The findings demonstrate that the inclusion of diverse communication methods, such as visual aids, cultural figurative language, and numbers, can be helpful for clinicians when working with PLEP or those with limited health literacy to increase the comprehension of results. Additionally, the findings indicate that the inclusion of various healthcare professionals (e.g., social worker, referral source, family members) in assessment feedback could be a helpful option to use when working with PLEP to increase their comprehension of results and adherence to recommendations. Finally, increased collaboration with language interpreters can be a valuable area for clinicians to explore. Specifically, further training on how to include interpreters in sessions and using the interpreter’s knowledge of the targeted culture to assist in building rapport and increase effective communication.
Identifier
SC 11.PsyD.2024.Vang.D.
Recommended Citation
Vang, Dee, "Effective methods in communicating assessment results to individuals with limited English proficiency: A survey of current psychologists’ practices." (2024). Theses and Graduate Projects. 1606.
https://idun.augsburg.edu/etd/1606