The law's response to reproductive genetic testing: questioning assumptions about choice, causation and control

Fetal Diagn Ther. 1993 Apr;8(Suppl. 1):160-3. doi: 10.1159/000263883.

Abstract

The law's response to reproductive genetic testing depends on a number of assumptions about choice, causation and control which need to be questioned. From the preconception stage forward, the illusion of choice may raise such fundamental questions as the woman's choice not to be tested, limits on genetic information, and the availability of reproductive options. In turn, assumptions about choice raise questions about the responsibility for results and the connection between choice and causation in the context of wrongful birth and life actions. Assumptions made about control over reproductive choice and over causing 'harm', will impact on the development of future law.

MeSH terms

  • Abortion, Eugenic
  • Choice Behavior*
  • Decision Making
  • Disclosure
  • Federal Government
  • Female
  • Fetal Diseases / diagnosis
  • Genetic Counseling
  • Genetic Diseases, Inborn / diagnosis
  • Genetic Testing*
  • Government
  • Government Regulation
  • Health Personnel
  • Humans
  • Jurisprudence*
  • Legislation, Medical*
  • Liability, Legal
  • Men
  • Moral Obligations
  • Pregnancy*
  • Pregnant Women*
  • Prenatal Diagnosis*
  • Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects
  • Social Control, Formal
  • Social Responsibility
  • State Government
  • United States
  • Women*
  • Wrongful Life