An empirical study of children and adolescents’ perspectives on testing minors for their genetic predisposition to psychiatric disorder

Predictive genetic testing for psychiatric disorders could help prevent or delay the development of debilitating conditions. However, it is a relatively poor predictive instrument because of the complex and variable expression in the genes underlying mental disorders. There have been empirical studies concerning the socio-ethical impact of such testing from the perspectives of adult patients, family, psychiatrists and geneticists. These studies highlighted the risks of promoting a deterministic stance on psychiatric conditions, the potential for discrimination against people tested, and the possible negative effects on family relationships. However, no systematic study has investigated younger people’s perspectives of the tests. 

The aim of my research is to investigate children and adolescents’ perspectives on testing minors for their genetic predisposition to psychiatric disorders. My research will assess whether their concerns confirm those expressed in the academic literature and it will provide a more inclusive account of the public’s opinions.