Abstract
This article discusses challenges of language differences in qualitative research, when participants and the main researcher
have the same non-English native language and the non-English data lead to an English publication. Challenges of translation
are discussed from the perspective that interpretation of meaning is the core of qualitative research. As translation is also
an interpretive act, meaning may get lost in the translation process. Recommendations are suggested, aiming to contribute
to the best possible representation and understanding of the interpreted experiences of the participants and thereby to the
validity of qualitative research.
have the same non-English native language and the non-English data lead to an English publication. Challenges of translation
are discussed from the perspective that interpretation of meaning is the core of qualitative research. As translation is also
an interpretive act, meaning may get lost in the translation process. Recommendations are suggested, aiming to contribute
to the best possible representation and understanding of the interpreted experiences of the participants and thereby to the
validity of qualitative research.
- Content Type Journal Article
- DOI 10.1007/s10433-010-0168-y
- Authors
- Fenna van Nes, Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam, EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Tineke Abma, Medical Humanities, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Hans Jonsson, Division of Occupational Therapy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Dorly Deeg, Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam, EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Journal European Journal of Ageing
- Online ISSN 1613-9380
- Print ISSN 1613-9372