Exploring the dynamics of adaptability in the translation of mental health education material: the perspectives from Chinese tertiary students studying in Australia.

INTRODUCTION

With technological advances, health communication studies have increasingly focused on multimodality. In contrast, as adaptation has been merged with cross-cultural translation, the dynamics of adaptability have been discussed primarily in theoretical research and other areas of translation, and only a few medical and health translation studies have emphasized this point.

METHODS

Using the dynamic dimension in Verschueren's Adaptation Theory, the current study used a questionnaire survey and semi-structured interviews to explore the dynamics of adaptability in the Chinese translation of mental health education materials for Chinese international students (CISs) studying at Australian universities. Two hundred CISs were invited to take part in this study.

RESULTS

CISs believed they could finish reading the translation within 10 min, but they still preferred more concise translations. Translation length influences the reading strategies CISs select. The participants preferred two forms of translation: (1) the combination of pictures and text, and (2) videos. To improve the linearity of the translation, the former part could be more attractive and motivating. The former and the latter parts of the translation should be integrated to promote dynamic meaning generation. It was also suggested that the links at the end of the translation be incorporated directly into the translation and be clear and up to date.

DISCUSSION: This study applied the dynamics of adaptability to investigate CIS's view of the Chinese translation of mental health education material and appropriate improvements. It will establish a reader-oriented manifestation of the dynamic dimension of adaptability for relevant research.