Genetic testing has brought a revolution in the fields of medicine and healthcare. However, the impact and benefits of genetic testing in psychology has not been completely understood. The awareness remains even lesser in India.

Advances in genetic testing have allowed psychologists to understand how genes impact the mental health or a person. In addition, it also affects personality and behavior to a considerable extent. Genetic testing provides valuable insights into why some people are more prone to conditions like depression, schizophrenia and anxiety.

This blog aims to explore the role of genetic testing in psychology, the tests available and how the results of the tests can guide mental health treatment and interventions.

What is Genetic Testing?

Genetic Testing involves analyzing a persons DNA in order to find variations from the normal or mutation in the DNA that could be linked to different health conditions including different psychological disorders.

Role of Genetic Testing in Psychology

Genetic testing helps mental health professionals understand how variations in gene manifestation may contribute to mental health conditions, personality traits and treatment responses.

Mental Health Conditions linked to Genetics

Some mental health conditions are strongly linked to genes and DNA. Genetic testing can help identify the susceptibility to different mental health conditions including the following.

Interpretation: If a person's genetic test shows a variation in the COMT gene (linked to dopamine regulation), they may have a higher risk of developing schizophrenia or mood disorders.

Genetic Testing in Treatment Personalization

Medication Response

Genetic testing can help determine the medication plan of the patient. Specific genes affect the treatment effect of anti depressants and antipsychotics on the patient and hence cannot be prescribed. Genetic testing can help give better treatment.

Therapy effectiveness

People with a specific type of gene respond better to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as found in recent researches.

Risk Management

Early identification of genetic vulnerability allows preventive interventions like stress management, therapy, medication and other required procedures.

Psychological Insights from Genetic Testing

Genetic testing helps to get greater insights into clinical psychology and personality findings.

Predicting Mental Health Risks

Genetic testing can help in identifying genetic vulnerabilities to mental health disorders like depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety. This can help plan early interventions for them. Preventive therapy and lifestyle modifications can be helpful in reducing risk factors.

Improving Psychotherapy Outcomes

Certain gene variations affect how people respond to therapy. A gene named BDNF has been known to respond better to CBT.

Addiction and Impulse Control

Genetic variations in certain genes are linked to addiction. Individual with a high genetic risk for addiction may be helped from targeted therapy with cognitive restructuring.

Improving Quality of Life in Other disorders

Certain disorders that are not curable in nature like epilepsy, ADHD still come with major affect on the quality of life of the person suffering. A genetic testing can help to project the development of the disorder and also to improve the quality of life.

Genetic testing in psychology is a powerful tool that could help in understanding mental health risks and personalizing treatment of these disorders. Genetic testing is not about predicting ones fate but it is for empowering one to make informed choices about their health.

References

• Plomin, R. (2018). Blueprint: How DNA Makes Us Who We Are. Get the book

• American Psychological Association (APA)