Potential threats to the effective communication of genetic risk information: The case of cystic fibrosis

James Price Dillard, Lijiang Shen, Anita Laxova, Phillip Farrell

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

9 Scopus citations

Abstract

The dramatic increase in genetic knowledge engendered by the mapping of the human genome brings with it a need for greater understanding of how to effectively communicate genetic risk information. Using a combination of observational and self-report data, this study examined potential threats to effective risk communication in 17 families whose infant received a positive newborn screening test for cystic fibrosis. Five specific problems are identified: (a) copresence of interactants (or the lack thereof), (b) disruptions in the communication environment, (c) variations in parents' initial knowledge, (d) rigidity in counselors' behavioral scripts, and (e) emotional interference with information acquisition. We advance 3 proposals for research aimed at improving our understanding of these potential threats.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)234-244
Number of pages11
JournalHealth Communication
Volume23
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2008

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Health(social science)
  • Communication

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