Stress in Conference Interpreting: A Literature Review

Abstract

Conference interpreting is widely recogni s ed as one of the most cognitively demanding linguistic activities, requiring simultaneous processing of multiple tasks under time pressure and high-stakes conditions. Despite growing research interest, no comprehensive synthesis has systematically integrated findings across physiological, cognitive, and psychological dimensions of interpreter stress. This literature review addresses this gap by synthesi s ing empirical research on stress in conference interpreting published between 1990 and 2024. The review employed a systematic search strategy across Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar using keywords including "conference interpreting," "simultaneous interpreting," "stress," "cognitive load," "physiological stress," and "burnout." Of the 247 initially identified studies, 45 peer-reviewed empirical articles and 12 theoretical frameworks were included based on relevance, methodological rigo u r, and their contribution to understanding interpreter stress. The analytical approach employed thematic synthesis, organi s ing findings into physiological responses, cognitive load factors, environmental stressors, individual differences, and coping mechanisms. Key findings indicate that conference interpreting elicits significant acute stress responses, including cardiovascular activation (20-30% increase in heart rate), neuroendocrine changes (elevated cortisol), and extensive neural resource mobilisation. Cognitive load arises from processing complexity, working memory demands, and sustained attention requirements. Environmental factors (working conditions, preparation time) and performance pressure substantially influence stress experiences. Importantly, expertise moderates stress responses through enhanced processing efficiency and adaptive coping strategies, though even experienced interpreters show stress under extreme conditions. Individual differences in personality, anxiety traits, and bilingual control efficiency further shape stress susceptibility. This review contributes a comprehensive, multi-dimensional framework for understanding interpreter stress, identifies methodological gaps requiring longitudinal and neuroimaging research, and provides evidence-based recommendations for training programs and professional standards. Findings support current workplace guidelines while highlighting the need for chronic stress management and career sustainability initiatives.