Another potential reason for keeping genetic information secret (even from those for whom the knowledge will be beneficial) stems from genetic shame. Does genetic shame discourages the carrier from acting? The idea of genetic shame is puzzling but familiar; people are often ashamed of their race, sexual orientation, appearance or disabilities, even though all of [...]
Also tagged disclosure, family, perception, selfMen of the Mosuo society, who live around Lugu Lake on the border between Yunnan and Sichuan Provinces, China, do help to raise kids—just not their own, with whom the men typically have only limited relationships. Instead the men help look after all the children born to their own sisters, aunts, and other women of [...]
Also tagged family, gene, sense, structureAs families and citizens are refigured in a ‘genetic network’ (Armstrong 1998) or through forms of ‘biosociality’ (Rainbow, 1996) the individual needs to find ways to define their autonomy to themselves and to society.
The spotlight on shared genetic material alludes to the biological association (Arribus-Allyson et all, 2008) suggesting not only anatomical, but behavioural similarities [...]
The genes or mutations can be seen as bonding agents, fusing the individual into the group. However, being identified as part of this group biologically can diminish one’s autonomy over their body, privacy and life decisions. Genetic diagnosis gives us a glimpse of potential futures (Hallowell, et all 2006) and as a result can alter [...]
Also tagged autonomy, future, narrative, selfIf the family identity is derived from shared genetic makeup then what happens when a genetic condition arises de novo? Does the effected individual suddenly have a new identity? Would they now feel misaligned or somehow estranged from the family? And if so, would this individual then have a desire to begin their own dynasty? [...]
Also tagged familyLooking back at the Price family tree, the women in the family treated the genetic information in different ways.
After Deborah has been tested positive for the BRCA gene she decided to undergo a prophylactic mastectomy. This procedure, performed as a preventive medical treatment, changes her appearance (unlike the removal of ovaries). Could this visible modification [...]
With knowledge of genetic information, what is the family narrative based upon? Does the family’s sense of identity become entwined with an experience of illness?
An ancestry chart traditionally accounts the family history of marriages, births and deaths. The Price family tree follows the story of the BRCA gene’s path throughout the generations.
A family identity constructed [...]