Socio-ecological models as a framework for 21st-century genetic counseling

Area of Science:

• Genetic Counseling
• Public Health
• Social Work

Background:

• Socio-ecological models are established in social work and public health but underexplored in genetic counseling.
• The genetic counseling field is rapidly expanding globally, necessitating unified theoretical frameworks.
• Current practice, training, and research in genetic counseling lack a cohesive conceptual model.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conceptualize and tailor socio-ecological models for genetic counseling.
• To provide a common language and organizational framework for the evolving genetic counseling profession.
• To illustrate the application of socio-ecological models across genetic counseling's professional identity, clinical practice, training, and research.

Main Methods:

• Overview of socio-ecological models.
• Description of model applications in genetic counseling contexts.
• Presentation of practical examples for multi-level issue resolution.

Main Results:

• Socio-ecological models can provide a unifying framework for genetic counseling.
• These models offer practical applications for professional identity, clinical practice, training, and research.
• The micro, meso, and macro levels of socio-ecological models are relevant to genetic counseling.

Conclusions:

• Adoption of socio-ecological models can foster cohesion in the genetic counseling field.
• These models are valuable for addressing complex genetic counseling issues at multiple levels.
• Tailoring socio-ecological models will help intentionally shape the future of genetic counseling.