title: Is non-directive communication in genetic counseling possible?
abstract: In 2007, over 560,000 genetic tests were performed in Italy. However, only 70,154 genetic counseling sessions were conducted. Some say that non-directive counseling is necessary so that the patient understands the test results and the different options available and that the physician should not influence the patient's free choice. We need to clarify the meaning of non-directive consultation and if it is in fact possible. Each doctor has his own values and, in order to achieve the intended purpose, he will give information that, with his verbal, para-verbal and body language will guide the patient to one decision or another. Taking into account the axiom of effective communication "You can't NOT communicate", non-directive counseling is very difficult or even impossible. In genetic counseling, the knowledge that the patient receives of the correct diagnosis and related medical facts and of the applicable genetic considerations is basic to the entire process. Nonetheless, such knowledge in itself is not sufficient if it cannot be appropriately imparted to the interested person or persons. We think "persuasion" is not the right method, but instead "convince" meaning "co-win", "win together" may be the best approach to a problem of such great importance. The counselor will have achieved the desired goal with his patient if he is able to channel the emotion towards a mutually beneficial objective. The primary goal is not to persuade but to win-together (convince) with the patient and the unborn child.
authors: Institute of Philosophy of Scientific and Technological Activity, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Italy. m.pennacchini@unicampus.it
authors: M
authors: M
authors: Pennacchini
authors: C
authors: C
authors: Pensieri
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D004644:Emotions; D005260:Female; D005817:Genetic Counseling / Q000941:ethics / Q000379:methods / Q000523:psychology*; D006040:Goals; D006801:Humans; D007558:Italy; D008297:Male; D009633:Nonverbal Communication; D009629:Person-Centered Psychotherapy / Q000941:ethics / Q000379:methods; D010565:Persuasive Communication; D012945:Social Values