title: Perceptions and Discourses Relating to Genetic Testing: Interviews with People with Down Syndrome.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The perceptions of individuals with Down syndrome are conspicuously absent in discussions about the use of prenatal testing.
  
  
  METHODS
  Eight individuals with Down syndrome were interviewed about their views and experience of the topic of prenatal testing.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Interpretative phenomenological analysis revealed two major themes with subthemes: (1) a devalued condition and a valued life and (2) a question of 'want?' Foucauldian discourse analysis highlighted two main discursive practices: (i) social deviance and (ii) tragedy and catastrophe of the birth of a baby with Down syndrome.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The findings suggest that individuals with intellectual disabilities can make a valuable contribution to discussions surrounding the use of prenatal testing. Implications for clinical practice include the use of information about Down syndrome given to prospective parents, and the possible psychological impact of prenatal testing practices on individuals with Down syndrome.
authors.affiliation: Mental Health in Learning Disability, South London and Maudsley, NHS Foundation Trust, SE5 8AZ, London, UK.
authors.forename: Barbara
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Barter
authors.affiliation: Cerebra Chair of Family Research, CEDAR (Centre for Educational Development Appraisal and Research), University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK.
authors.forename: Richard Patrick
authors.initials: RP
authors.lastname: Hastings
authors.affiliation: Uwch Seicolegydd Ymgynghoro, University Health Board, North Wales, UK.|Gwasanaethau Arbennigol Plant, Bwrdd Iechyd Prifysgol, Betsi Cadwaladr, University Health Board, North Wales, UK.
authors.forename: Rebecca
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Williams
authors.affiliation: School of Healthcare Sciences, Prifysgol Bangor University, North Wales, UK.
authors.forename: Jaci C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Huws
keywords: Down syndrome; discourse analysis; prenatal genetic testing; qualitative methods