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Working memory and verbal fluency in simultaneous interpreters
Stavroula Stavrakaki1, Kalliopi Megari, Mary H Kosmidis
1Department of Italian Language and Literature, School of Philosophy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.
Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology
|March 23, 2012
Summary
Simultaneous interpreters show superior working memory and semantic fluency compared to those merely fluent in a second language. These cognitive advantages exceed those expected from language proficiency alone.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Linguistics
Background:
- Bilingualism is associated with cognitive benefits.
- Simultaneous interpretation requires advanced cognitive skills.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate working memory and verbal fluency in simultaneous interpreters.
- To compare interpreters with bilingual individuals and foreign language teachers.
Main Methods:
- Assessed working memory and verbal fluency in simultaneous interpreters (n=15), a control group (n=35), and foreign language teachers (n=15).
Main Results:
- Interpreters significantly outperformed the control group on semantic fluency and working memory tasks.
- Interpreters showed a non-significant trend towards outperforming foreign language teachers.
Conclusions:
- Simultaneous interpretation enhances working memory and semantic processing beyond general language proficiency.
- Cognitive skills in interpreters suggest specialized abilities developed through their profession.
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