New findings in psychiatric genetics: implications for social work practice

Advances in psychiatric and behavioral genetic research have expanded the knowledge base about the genetic etiology for many psychiatric disorders, transforming the practice of psychiatry. The opportunity exists to develop a well-defined role for social workers in dealing with psychiatric genetic issues. This article outlines roles for social work in psychiatric genetics, reviews the literature which explains the genetic component of the most common psychiatric disorders, and considers the clinical implications that arise in social work practice with clients dealing with psychiatric genetic issues.