Genetic testing for psychiatric illness in children: ethical issues

Abstract

Purpose of reviewGenetic and genomic technologies are showing great potential in the field of psychiatry. Genetic testing for psychiatric conditions poses a range of ethical challenges, many of which are likely to be exacerbated for paediatric populations. As a large proportion of psychiatric conditions present in late adolescence and early adulthood, testing in childhood may be considered in some circumstances. Synthesis of issues specific to psychiatric genetic testing in paediatric populations has been limited.Recent findingsBalancing the autonomy of the child and parents requires consideration and judging capacity may be complicated by the presence of psychiatric illness in the child and their family. Health professionals’ limited understanding of psychiatric genetics may inhibit delivery of effective psychiatric care. Risk of stigma and discrimination associated with genetic diagnosis and psychiatric illness is compounded for children, who inherently cannot make their own decisions and for whom the impact of a genetic diagnosis is likely to be longest lasting.SummaryAlthough the current evidence base suggests genetic testing may not be appropriate for clinical use in psychiatric populations right now, when it is, appropriate pre-test counselling and informed decision making will be essential to support and protect children's developing and future autonomy.