The role of familial relatedness and associated factors in interest in genetic testing for depression

This study examines factors that affect interest in genetic testing for depression. The following investigates personal and family history of depression, specifically if interest differs between first- and second-degree family history. Of further consideration is if high and low predictive ability levels, if frequency of contact (FOC) to family members with depression and if genetic knowledge affect interest. A total of 261 participants aged over 18 (mean age = 28.19 years; female N = 195, male N = 60, other N = 6) completed an online survey that assessed personal and family history of depression, FOC to family members with depression, genetic knowledge, and interest at high versus low levels of predictive ability. Participants expressed greater interest in high predictive ability testing than low predictive ability. Results also found significant differences in interest between participants with personal diagnosed history of depression and participants with second degree family history. Both FOC to family members with depression and genetic knowledge did not mediate the effect of family history of depression on interest in genetic testing. The results of this study can be used to inform policies that improve education on genetics, and support services for individuals who are interested in genetic testing.