Distrust, Race/Ethnicity, and Predictive Genetic Testing

The overall goals of this project are to increase understanding of the nature, distribution, and correlates of trust and distrust related to predictive genetic testing and to investigate the relationship among trust/distrust, attributes of a genetic test and its delivery, and willingness to undergo predictive genetic testing. In our preliminary conceptual model, trust and distrust related to predictive genetic testing are multidimensional constructs that encompass beliefs about whether or not a predictive genetic test will be used in one's best interest. The components of these constructs are defined by how and by whom the genetic test may be used. The project focuses on African-American, Caucasian and Latino populations in order to elucidate the relationship between distrust and ethnicity/race and to address the legacy of distrust among historically disadvantaged minorities.

We propose a three-phase project using qualitative and quantitative methods. In Phase One, we will refine our conceptual model through comprehensive literature review, focus groups, interviews and consultation with an expert advisory panel. In Phase Two, we will develop a psychometrically sound instrument to measure trust and distrust related to predictive genetic testing. In Phase Three, we will conduct a national survey of African-American, Caucasian, and Latino adults to measure distrust, potential correlates of distrust, and the relationship between distrust, attributes of the genetic test and its delivery, and willingness to undergo testing. To accomplish these goals, we have assembled an investigator team of experts in bioethics, genetics, psychometrics, and survey research, as well as a multidisciplinary advisory panel that includes stakeholders from the African-American and Latino communities.