Variables in the outcome of genetic counseling

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Abstract
Genetic counseling is defined as a communication process which has as its goal the provision of information and support for the alleviation of human suffering. Educational, reproductive and psychological outcomes vary and reproductive behavior is dependent upon stage in the life cycle, the mother''s religion and the family''s attitude toward children. The degree of handicap of the affected, improvement with treatment, recurrence risk and mode of inheritance may be important determinants within certain groups. Psychological outcome is harder to assess. Both clinical observations and objective measures have indicated a high degree of emotional upset in counselees at the time of genetic counseling. Causes for this upset are hypothesized and related to the grief model. These psychological variables have significant impact upon the learning, decision making and behavior of counselees. These affective effects may be operating for periods of 3 or more years after counseling. Aspects of genetic counseling related to adjustment should be increased and lengthened.

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