Assessing Roman Catholics’ Modern Beliefs and Behaviors Surrounding Genetics Counseling Services

Graduation Year

2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree

M.S.P.H.

Degree Name

MS in Public Health (M.S.P.H.)

Degree Granting Department

Global Health

Major Professor

Deborah Cragun, PhD, MS, CGC

Committee Member

Ryan Cragun, PhD

Committee Member

Kathleen Pope, MD

Keywords

modern, beliefs, genetic counseling profession, genetic counselors, Roman Catholic, Catholic, thematic analysis, ChatGPT4, contemporary, qualitative review

Abstract

Currently, there is limited knowledge about the contemporary beliefs of Roman Catholics regarding genetic healthcare, and concerns exist that they may be less comfortable accessing genetic counseling services. To better meet the needs of this population, we interviewed 18 adult Roman Catholics living in the United States. A novel method of thematic analysis was utilized, combining traditional qualitative techniques with the assistance of ChatGPT-4, following best practices proposed to improve the trustworthiness of AI-assisted qualitative analysis. The majority of participants were college-educated women aged 25-40, none of whom had seen a genetic counselor. Most participants associated the term “genetic counseling” with prenatal settings and could describe scenarios where someone might be referred to a preconception or prenatal genetic counselor. However, there was limited awareness about the utility of genetic counseling or testing in other specialties. Respect for life at all stages was a recurring theme. Most participants recognized that genetic counselors have a professional obligation to present all options, including abortion. However, they were concerned that a genetic counselor might recommend termination in cases where a fetus is diagnosed with a genetic condition. If assured that autonomous decision-making is supported, participants unanimously saw potential value in genetic counseling services. These findings suggest that this population may be selectively avoiding genetic counseling services due to a lack of awareness of non-prenatal specialties and a lack of understanding that prenatal genetic services could be compatible with Roman Catholic moral doctrine. Addressing these concerns may increase the likelihood that Roman Catholics will seek out and benefit from genetic counseling.

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