This chapter investigates how interpreters’ initiatives may either promote or inhibit affective
communication in doctor-patient talk. In particular, so-called ‘zero-renditions’ and
‘non-renditions’ (Wadensjö 1998) are analysed from a conversation analytical perspective.
The exchanges discussed are part of a sample of consultations between healthcare
providers and migrant patients from English-speaking countries recorded in the provinces
of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy). The analysis suggests that affective displays are
fairly numerous in doctor-patient talk; however, interpreters are not always at ease when
dealing with them. The findings stimulate reflection on the relevance of a triadic management
of affective sequences in interpreter-mediated doctor-patient talk.
