Factors That Influence Genetic Counselors' Professional Identity-A Qualitative Study

Genetic counselors describe their professional identity as who they are (personal characteristics and attributes), what they do (actions and skills), and what they possess (training and knowledge). A shared multidimensional perspective highlights the transferability of their skills across diverse roles and settings. This qualitative study aimed to identify factors that influence genetic counselors' perceptions and formation of their professional identities. Using Social Identity Theory as a theoretical framework, semi-structured recorded interviews were conducted with 50 genetic counselors who were purposefully sampled to ensure diversity of personal demographics (gender, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, and caregiver status), as well as years, settings, and roles in genetic counseling practice. Transcripts were coded and subjected to codebook thematic analysis using NVivo. Professional identity was influenced by internal validation (sense of purpose in work, pride, and confidence), external validation (from other colleagues, work system, degree of autonomy, and patients), one's personal identities (demographics, life experiences, and persona), and connections with others (professional network, peer support, role models, and giving back). Alignment and misalignment of these factors and the perceived collective identity of the profession impacted genetic counselors' sense of belonging to the profession both positively and negatively, respectively. Continued efforts to diversify the profession, as well as expanded opportunities for genetic counselors to work in new settings and roles, require critical reflection and discussion about the collective identity of the genetic counseling profession. The findings of this study can inform the recruitment, training, credentialing, continuing education, and retention of genetic counselors to ensure that genetic counselors, regardless of their personal identities or their work roles or settings, develop and maintain a sense of belonging and commitment to the profession and its values. In turn, the support of professional identity formation can positively impact genetic counselors' job satisfaction, competency, and delivery of healthcare to their patients and the populations they serve.