Attitudes toward genetic testing and fetal diagnosis, 1990-1996

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Sociology
• Bioethics

Background:

• Existing research on genetic testing attitudes relies on small, specialized samples.
• Public opinion on genetic technologies is influenced by media coverage and socio-demographic factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze attitudinal changes towards genetic testing and prenatal diagnosis using a national sample.
• To explore socio-demographic predictors of public views on genetic technology and reproduction.
• To examine the impact of changing mass media coverage on public attitudes.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a nationally representative sample from the General Social Survey (GSS).
• Analyzed attitudinal changes between 1990 and 1996.
• Correlated attitudes with socio-demographic variables and media coverage trends (1988-1995).

Main Results:

• Attitudes toward genetic testing remained stable overall between 1990-1996.
• Media coverage of prenatal testing declined in frequency and favorability, while other genetic testing reports increased.
• Attitudes towards abortion in cases of genetic defects became more negative during the study period.

Conclusions:

• Despite stable overall attitudes, demographic subgroups show varying shifts in views on genetic testing.
• Negative shifts in attitudes towards abortion for genetic defects warrant further investigation.
• Media framing significantly impacts public perception of genetic technologies and reproductive choices.