Genetics and Psychology at a Crossroad : A Road Less Traveled? / Vivian Ota Wang.

More and more people are touched daily by genetic information. Even with the technological accomplishments generated by the Human Genome Initiative, genetic information will continue to produce uncertainty. It is this uncertainty that gives rise to many of the complex clinical dilemmas facing genetic and psychology professionals today. Some of the issues facing genetic research today include: (1) how genetic information influences the development of personality and identity formation of people with genetic diseases compared to individuals at risk; and (2) how knowledge about genetic information and the potential of having a life-threatening disease influences family relationships and life expectations. It suggests that overall, psychologists will need to better attend to the clinical presentation of genetic issues with clients. Given the logistics and training limitations of genetic counselors, psychologists must be prepared to work with individuals, couples, and families to explore how the impact of genetic information influences coping, adjustment, and understanding of oneself. They must be open to exploring the intrapsychic issues related to uncertainty, risk perception, and decision-making. (Contains 20 references.) (JDM)

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