DNA testing kits, often given as gifts for occasions such as Father's Day and Christmas, can have significant psychological implications, according to a June 19 warning from psychologist Dr. Susan Moore. Moore, a retired Australian university researcher in social and developmental psychology, said the decision to gift or take a DNA test requires more consideration than many people realize.
In her new book The Psychology of Genealogy, Moore explores the complex emotions behind DNA testing. She draws on research and real-life cases to highlight both rewards and risks associated with these tests. At least 30 million people have already tested their DNA through genealogical services, with the market valued at $3.5 billion USD in 2022.
Moore said that the psychological stakes are higher than many expect. "Hobbyist family historians are uncovering joyful and inspiring stories of the past as well as sad and unsettling secrets of their ancestry," Moore explains. "Records and DNA matches provide boosts, challenges and even threats to one's sense of self, and this is occurring at unprecedented levels." She described scenarios where individuals discovered misattributed paternity or learned about donor conception through DNA results—cases that can fundamentally challenge one’s sense of self or family belonging.
"At the personal level, these may be findings that cause you great distress, that destabilise your sense of who you are, that initially at least, you would have preferred not to know. Once known however, they cannot be unknown," Moore explains. "While some will be able to integrate this new information into their understanding of selfhood, family relationships and belongingness, others will struggle with acceptance, trust and feelings of betrayal." Data security is another concern; in 2023 hackers accessed genetic data from seven million users at one major provider.
Despite these risks, Moore said many people are drawn to genealogy because it fulfills deep psychological needs related to identity formation and belongingness. "Curiosity is a great motivator. How exciting it can be to discover the identity of an ancestor...or discover previously unknown living relatives," she explains.
Moore advises anyone considering gifting a kit: "Yes [do so], if you want to explore your ancestry further...and second about how to interact respectfully and ethically when contacting matches." However, she also warns: "No [do not], unless you're prepared for surprises...or if you're very worried about privacy breaches." She recommends honest conversations before gifting such tests so recipients understand potential outcomes.
