Ethics and DNA Testing
Ethics
Law enforcement
Only 2 DNA entities currently allow use by law enforcement: FamilyTree DNA and GedMatch. However, both of these websites give the user the option to opt-out of law enforcement matching. This means you are still completely able to use their DNA matching and other tools without law enforcement access if you desire.
If you are opted-in to law enforcement matching on either site, law enforcement will only see the same information that any other of your DNA matches can see. Law enforcement will also only see that information if you are a DNA match to their kit.
For more details about law enforcement involvement on these two websites, see the terms of service for GedMatch and FamilyTree DNA.
Discovering biological parents
Finding biological parents for adoptees (or others) can be beneficial, as it can open the door to knowledge about one's medical family history and other 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."[1] 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.
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."[2]
Privacy laws
Privacy laws surrounding DNA may vary per country (please see your country's laws for more specifics).
In the United States, DNA privacy is protected under the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) of 2008. "The Genetic Information and Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 (GINA) protects the genetic privacy of the public, including research participants. The passage of GINA makes it illegal for health insurers or employers from requesting or requiring genetic information of an individual or of family members (and further prohibits the discriminatory use of such information)."[3]
Good Practices
References
- ↑ Southard, Diahan. Your DNA Guide: The Book, Your DNA Guide: 2020, page 30.
- ↑ Bettinger, Blaine T. The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy, Family Tree Books: 2016, page 38.
- ↑ National Human Genome Research Institute. "Privacy in Genomics", https://www.genome.gov/about-genomics/policy-issues/Privacy#:~:text=Genetic%20Information%20Nondiscrimination%20Act%20(GINA,the%20public%2C%20including%20research%20participants. accessed 13 August 2020.