Attitudes about the use of genetic information and genetic engineering when making reproductive decisions: Influence of gender, discipline and role

The Human Genome Project could allow access to genetic information about ourselves and others, including the presence of disease, risk to predisposition to disease, and characteristics or traits. Genetic engineering (genetic testing, gene therapy or genetic enhancement) could allow us to change the status of genes. This dissertation was designed to develop and administer an original research instrument and conduct preliminary research to measure attitudes about the use of genetic information and genetic engineering when making reproductive decisions from the perspectives of gender, discipline and role. The Harman Genome Instrument was administered to graduate-level genetics and ministry students and pediatric medicine residents. Gender and discipline were evaluated in relationship to attitudes toward genetic testing, abortion, gene therapy, genetic enhancement and general social issues, as interpreted by both parental and professional roles. Statistical treatment included factor analysis, Cronbach Alpha, ANOVA-GLM, Scheffe and Univariate tests.;Gender, discipline and the interaction of gender and discipline influenced attitudes. Men were more in favor of wanting abortion and gene therapy; more likely to agree that they did not understand the social consequences of their decisions and that eliminating genetic flaws would increase chances for success. Women were more against wanting genetic enhancement and encouraging genetic testing for predisposition to severe acne; more likely to seek the advice of a religious counselor; and, less in favor of testing, abortion, therapy and enhancement for a majority of the decisions. Discipline statistically influenced attitudes, except for testing for predisposition for severe acne and shortness; abortion for gender wanted and genius; and, genetic enhancement. Genetics students were most in favor of access to the information and technology, pediatric residents less in favor and ministry students least in favor for virtually all decisions. The interaction of gender and discipline statistically influenced social attitudes.;There were statistically significant differences, as interpreted by the parental and professional roles. Participant comments indicated a variety of attitudes and decision-making influences.