A case study of genetic discrimination: Social work and advocacy within a new context

Abstract

The availability of predictive genetic technologies, in which the future illnesses of individuals are predicted through genetic analysis, is increasing. There has been considerable debate, however, around the ethical, legal, social and psychological implications of such developments. A case study of potential discrimination on the basis of genetic makeup, one involving the denial of employment, is presented and discussed within the context of the inherited illness of Huntington's Disease. As advocacy is both a standard and a principle of social work practice, it is argued that social workers need to become more aware of this newly-developing arena for potential discrimination as issues of social justice are inherent. It is hoped that the presentation of the case study will contribute to increased awareness and interest in this area.