Do Children Think it is Important to Predict Learning and Behaviour Problems, and Do They Think Genetic Screening Has a Role to Play in This?

TL;DR

This study investigates how children aged 4–10 understand and feel about using DNA screening to predict learning and behavior problems.

Contribution

It introduces a novel approach using puppets and scenarios to explore children's views on genetic screening for learning and behavior issues.

Findings

Children can meaningfully contribute to discussions about genetic screening for learning and behavior problems.

Children expressed concerns about being seen as different and questioned the usefulness of early testing.

Findings highlight the importance of considering children's perspectives in public debates on genetic screening.

Abstract

This study explores how capable young children are of thinking about a potential future that uses DNA screening to assess an individual’s likelihood of experiencing learning or behaviour difficulties. Puppets and a scenario-based approach were used to ask children aged 4–10 (n = 165) whether they thought DNA screening might be helpful or harmful. A content analysis derived six categories: (1) ‘Worried about being – and being seen as – different’; (2) ‘Beliefs about the origins of learning and behaviour’; (3) ‘Testing is harmful’; (4) ‘Testing could help’; (5) ‘How soon is too soon for testing?’; and (6) ‘What’s the point?’. Findings indicate young children, as key stakeholders, can make useful contributions to public debate in this important and controversial area.

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