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Ethics and DNA Testing: Difference between revisions
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DNA use in family history has enhanced and complicated the way that research is conducted. It is important to remember that DNA testing in genealogy is, by itself, just another source. It is a powerful source, but in the area of genetic genealogy, multiple sources should be compiled and analyzed together when gathering information. | |||
== Ethics == | == Ethics == | ||
DNA testing has opened up new opportunities for genealogists to identify possible relationships, break down brick walls in their research, and connect with lost family members. It has also enabled law enforcement to use genetic material to identify potential suspects in criminal cases. Appropriate ethical use of DNA is still being defined by society and the law. Around the world, laws and regulations like the General Data Protection Privacy Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union to take into account or attempt to regulate the ethical use of this powerful source of information. In the United States currently there is no federal legislation regulating the use of genetic data and advocating for its ethical use. States like California have enacted laws to try to fill that void and other states are following its example. However, even with existing legislation at the state level in the US, legal is not always ethical. In general, using DNA information to harm, harass, or embarrass others is not appropriate. | DNA testing has opened up new opportunities for genealogists to identify possible relationships, break down brick walls in their research, and connect with lost family members. It has also enabled law enforcement to use genetic material to identify potential suspects in criminal cases. Appropriate ethical use of DNA is still being defined by society and the law. Around the world, laws and regulations like the General Data Protection Privacy Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union to take into account or attempt to regulate the ethical use of this powerful source of information. In the United States currently there is no federal legislation regulating the use of genetic data and advocating for its ethical use. States like California have enacted laws to try to fill that void and other states are following its example. However, even with existing legislation at the state level in the US, legal is not always ethical. In general, using DNA information to harm, harass, or embarrass others is not appropriate. | ||
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===Discovering Biological Parents=== | ===Discovering Biological Parents=== | ||
Finding biological parents for adoptees (or others) can be beneficial, as it can open the door to knowledge about one's | Finding biological parents for adoptees (or others) can be beneficial, as it can open the door to knowledge about one's genetic predispositions and unknown relationships. Though this can certainly be a positive family reunion, it may not be the case for every testee. Locating one's biological parents never has a guaranteed positive outcome for either the child or the parent(s). "Everyone has a right to know about their biological family. But no one has a right to a relationship."<ref>Southard, Diahan. ''Your DNA Guide: The Book'', Your DNA Guide: 2020, page 30.</ref> If you desire a relationship with a DNA match (including newly-discovered parents) but the match does not reciprocate that desire, do not continue to pester or push them into contact with you. This has the potential to burn bridges and create negative feelings.<br><br> | ||
Some who take DNA tests may also discover unexpected parental relationships, such as learning that the parent that raised them was not actually their biological parent. This is often difficult for the child involved, and can disrupt relationships. "...test takers should be prepared to handle scenarios in which they discover either new relatives or that their existing "relatives" aren't actually biologically related."<ref>Bettinger, Blaine T. ''The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy'', Family Tree Books: 2016, page 38.</ref> | Some who take DNA tests may also discover unexpected parental relationships, such as learning that the parent that raised them was not actually their biological parent. This is often difficult for the child involved, and can disrupt relationships. "...test takers should be prepared to handle scenarios in which they discover either new relatives or that their existing "relatives" aren't actually biologically related."<ref>Bettinger, Blaine T. ''The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy'', Family Tree Books: 2016, page 38.</ref> | ||
=== Privacy Laws === | === Privacy Laws === | ||