Background:
Behavioral genetic studies are important for the understanding of the contribution of genetic variations to human behavior. However, such studies might be associated with
some ethical concerns.
Methods:
In the current study, ethical challenges related to studies of genetic variations contributing to human behavior were examined among researchers. To achieve the study purpose, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region researchers were taken as an example, where the aftermentioned ethical challenges were discussed among a group of researchers, who were the participants of an online forum. Discussions and responses of the participants were monitored and were
later qualitatively analyzed.
Results:
Discussions revealed that several ethical challenges, including subjects’ recruitment, the
difficulty of obtaining informed consents, and issues of privacy and confidentiality of obtained data
as information leakage, in this case, will lead to social stigma and isolation of the participants and
their immediate family members. Jordanian social and cultural norms, faith, and the tribal nature of
the population were raised as a major challenge that might face conducting behavioral genetic
studies in the Arab populations of the MENA. The lack of regulation related to the conduction of
genetic studies, misunderstanding, and misuse of genetic information are other challenges. A full
explanation of genetic research and the current and future possible benefits/risks of such research
could be potential solutions.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the MENA populations are tackled with
major challenges in relation to conducting research studies in genetics/antisocial behavior field/s.
Establishment of guidelines related to genetic studies, capacity building, increasing public awareness about the importance of genetic testing, and enhancing responsible conduct of research will facilitate the conduct of such sensitive studies in the future in the region.
