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01-10-2010 | Original Research

Misunderstandings Concerning Genetics Among Patients Confronting Genetic Disease

Author: Robert L. Klitzman

Published in: Journal of Genetic Counseling | Issue 5/2010

Abstract

Critical questions arise about misunderstandings of genetics. We interviewed for 2 h each, 64 individuals who had or were at risk for Huntington’s disease (HD), breast cancer or Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. These individuals revealed various misunderstandings that can affect coping, and testing, treatment and reproductive decisions. A therapeutic misconception about testing appeared: that testing would be helpful in and of itself. Many believed they could control genetic disorders (even HD), yet these beliefs were often incorrect, and could impede coping, testing, and treatment. Misunderstandings about statistics and genetics often fueled each other, and reflected denial, and desires for hope and control. Emotional needs can thus outweigh understandings of genetics and statistics, and providers’ input. Individuals often maintained non-scientific beliefs, though embarrassed by these. These data have implications for care, and public and professional education. Misunderstandings’ persistence, despite realization of their inaccuracy, suggests that providers need to address not just cognitive facts, but underlying emotional issues.

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Title: Misunderstandings Concerning Genetics Among Patients Confronting Genetic Disease
Author: Robert L. Klitzman
Publication date: 01-10-2010
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Journal of Genetic Counseling / Issue 5/2010
Print ISSN: 1059-7700
Electronic ISSN: 1573-3599
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10897-010-9307-z

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