title: The role of the family in genetic testing: theoretical perspectives, current knowledge, and future directions.
abstract: This article addresses conceptual challenges and theoretical approaches for examining the role of the family in responding and adapting to genetic testing for inherited conditions. Using a family systems perspective, family-based constructs that are relevant to genetic testing may be organized into three domains: family communication, organization and structure of family relationships, and health-related cognitions and beliefs shared within families. Empirical findings are presented from key content areas in family-based genetics research, including family communication, how genetic testing affects family relationships, psychological responses to genetic testing in the family context, and family-based influences on health decisions. Future research should explore decision making about genetic testing or behavior change specifically within the context of the family system and should identify family-based determinants of genetic testing outcomes.
authors.affiliation: Department of Behavioral Science-Unit1330, University of Texas, M. D. AndersonCancer Center, Houston, TX 77230-1439, USA. speterso@mdanderson.org
authors.forename: Susan K
authors.initials: SK
authors.lastname: Peterson
mesh_terms: D003142:Communication; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology*; D005192:Family Health; D005195:Family Relations; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans