Abstract
Purpose of Review
This review summarizes the experimental literature on behavioral outcomes and psychological effects of genetic testing for obesity. Such tests, although of dubious value, are increasingly marketed to the public, and there has been concern that while results may encourage some consumers to increase the healthfulness of their lifestyles, others may interpret feedback in maladaptive ways.
Recent Findings
Hypothetical vignettes have been used in artificial settings; few studies have investigated outcomes of actual test results.
Summary
At present, the effects of genetic testing for obesity seem limited to improving consumers’ weight control intentions and motivation rather than actual dietary behavior. Evidence for negative psychological consequences is scarce and seems of greater concern for normal weight persons than for those who are overweight. Better research designs carried out in the field rather than the laboratory with more diverse samples are needed.
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Mary Segal declares that she has no conflict of interest.
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All reported studies/experiments with human subjects performed by the author have been previously published and complied with all applicable ethical standards (including the Helsinki declaration and its amendments, institutional/national research committee standards, and international/national/institutional guidelines).
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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Psychological Issues
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Segal, M. Genetic Testing for Obesity: Implications and Challenges. Curr Obes Rep 6, 93–100 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13679-017-0245-z
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13679-017-0245-z