Genetic testing: When prediction generates stigmatization

Using grounded theory methodology, this study examined the experiences of six BRCA1/2 gene mutation carriers (mean age = 38.5 years). Three types of stigmatization were identified: stigmatization by anticipation, stigmatization through rejection, and stigmatization by affiliation. Participants descr...

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Published inJournal of health psychology Vol. 20; no. 4; pp. 393 - 400
Main Authors DiMillo, Julia, Samson, André, Thériault, Anne, Lowry, Sandra, Corsini, Linda, Verma, Shailendra, Tomiak, Eva
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published London, England SAGE Publications 01.04.2015
Subjects
Adult
BRCA1 Protein
BRCA2 Protein
Breast Neoplasms - diagnosis
Breast Neoplasms - genetics
Breast Neoplasms - psychology
Cancer
Children
Female
Genetic Testing
Grounded theory
Humans
Patients
Stereotyping
Stigma
breast cancer
stigma
cancer
health psychology
genetic testing
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Summary:Using grounded theory methodology, this study examined the experiences of six BRCA1/2 gene mutation carriers (mean age = 38.5 years). Three types of stigmatization were identified: stigmatization by anticipation, stigmatization through rejection, and stigmatization by affiliation. Participants described potential impacts on their womanhood, felt threatened by others, and revealed fears that their children would inherit their stigmatization. These findings indicate the importance of psychological support in the follow-up of such patients.
Bibliography:ObjectType-Article-1
SourceType-Scholarly Journals-1
ObjectType-Feature-2
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ISSN:1359-1053
1461-7277
DOI:10.1177/1359105313502566