Language, Health and Culture: Problematizing the Centers and Peripheries of Healthcare Communication Research

Language, Health and Culture explores the empirical, epistemological, and theoretical foundations of research on language and health communication in Asia, challenging the hegemony of dominant traditions and highlighting culture- and context-specific ways of interpreting health realities.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 15 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Language, Health, and Culture is a groundbreaking collection of essays by linguistic scholars who specialize in health communication in Asia, with a focus on Hong Kong, Mainland China, Singapore, Japan, and Taiwan. The book brings together a diverse range of authentic data from various healthcare contexts across the region, drawing on primary, secondary, and digital sources. Olga Zayts-Spence and Susan M. Bridges, along with the contributors, explore empirical analyses and meta-reflections on the empirical, epistemological, and theoretical foundations of research on language and health communication in Asia.

While many medical and technological advances originate from non-English-dominant or peripheral contexts, there is a tendency to overlook and marginalize the rich research tradition in these areas when it comes to health communication. The contributions to this edited volume challenge the dominance of dominant (Anglocentric) traditions in health communication research by highlighting culture- and context-specific ways of interpreting different health realities through linguistic lenses.

The book explores a wide range of topics, including the role of language in healthcare communication, the cultural nuances of health communication, the impact of language barriers on patient care, and the use of technology in health communication. The contributors employ a variety of research methodologies, including qualitative and quantitative analysis, to examine these issues from different perspectives.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of recognizing and respecting the cultural diversity of Asia. The contributors argue that health communication should be tailored to the specific cultural contexts in which it occurs, and that language plays a crucial role in shaping cultural understandings of health and illness. They highlight the need for culturally sensitive and appropriate healthcare communication that takes into account the unique beliefs, values, and practices of different communities.

Another important theme is the impact of language barriers on patient care. The contributors note that language barriers can create significant challenges for patients, including difficulty understanding medical information, communicating with healthcare providers, and making informed decisions about their health. They explore strategies for overcoming language barriers, such as the use of interpreters, translation services, and patient education materials.

The book also examines the role of technology in health communication, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The contributors discuss the use of digital technologies, such as telemedicine and social media, to facilitate healthcare communication and provide access to healthcare services for marginalized communities. They also explore the ethical implications of these technologies and the need for robust regulations to protect patient privacy and ensure the quality of healthcare services.

In conclusion, Language, Health, and Culture is a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and practitioners interested in health communication in Asia. The book provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective on the complex relationship between language, health, and culture in the region. By challenging the dominance of dominant traditions and highlighting culture- and context-specific ways of interpreting health realities, the contributions to this book make a significant contribution to the field of health communication.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367559632