The author presents an overview of genetic counseling for psychiatric
patients and their families, including a brief summary of contemporary
research into the evidence of genetic factors, the familial risks, and the
possible modes of inheritance for major psychiatric disorders. The purpose
is to review and condense the available literature pertaining to
psychiatric genetic counseling for the benefit or psychiatrists and
counselors in their day-to-day practice and for the general "consumer." It
is hoped that giving the general public access to such information will
help to reduce the suffering commonly brought about by the stigmatization
of mental disorders.
Abstract Teaser