Genetic Counseling (GC) comprises an investigation regarding the diagnosis of genetic diseases. Thus, this case study aimed to analyze a particular GC model. Data collection was conducted through semi-structured interviews and an observation of a GC session. The participants comprised professionals, a biomedical team, and a consultant for a child diagnosed with double Y syndrome. It was observed that GC involves a complex intersubjective relationship and that, in both ends of the relationship (i.e., professional consultants and family members), emotional factors (anxiety, fear, guilty, etc.) and defensiveness (identification, rationalization, etc.) restricted the communication of the diagnosis, preventing the host from effectively explaining such vital information to the inquirer. The GC review process also indicated the following four findings: 1) A dissonance between GC theory and professional actions, 2) A fixation on GC protocol, 3) The use of technical language that made it difficult to communicate, and 4) Insufficient time for considering the chronological dimension. On the basis of the findings, it can be concluded that the GC model could be enriched by the psychological counseling model, especially in relation to crisis management and the vital work of multidisciplinary teams.
Genetic Counseling; Family; Behavior Medicine