Few data exist on the real-life consequences of genetic testing, though surveys show that many persons report themselves ready to alter their lifestyles, marriage plans and expectations of having children in response to test results. Only a few studies in psychiatry have examined disclosure of actual results to tested persons, and the results were relatively benign. But whether that would be true for highly predictive tests of more severe disorders is simply not clear. More data on this question are badly needed. Despite well-documented fears of negative consequences from testing, such as insurance or employment discrimination, no studies have examined the extent of discrimination for psychiatric disorders per se, and there are limited data even regarding non-psychiatric conditions (Bombard et al., 2010; Kass et al., 2007; Peterson et al., 2002).
