Dealing with Dilemma: A Manual for Genetic Counselors

The aim of DEALING WITH DILEMMA is to inte- grate medical and genetic information with the psychoso- cial aspects of genetic counseling, in order to provide a working manual for genetic counselors. The book fills a gap in the genetic counseling field because it emphasizes the humanistic aspects of genetic counseling, and is primarily concerned with communica- tion between genetic counselor and counselee. The few genetic counseling books available at this time are devoted almost entirely to the medical and genetic aspects of the subject. This book is written in nontechnical language, but it presupposes some knowledge of Mendelian genetics, poly- genic inheritance, and chromosomal anomalies. No prior study of psychology or counseling is necessary, however. DEALING WITH DILEMMA is intended for physi- cian and nonphysician genetic counselors, private practice physicians in pediatrics, obstetrics, family and general practice, internists, nurses, public health professionals, genetic counseling students, social workers, and other health professionals. Much of the material presented should be useful to those who deal with the psychosocial ramifications of many nongenetic diseases as well-prob- lems of the mentally retarded, handicapped, or chronically ill. In addition, it is hoped that professionals who plan state and federal health policy can use this book to gain a better knowledge of the humanistic side of genetic counseling.