Collection of Genetic Information in Panel Surveys |
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| Coordinator 1 | Professor David Richter (SHARE Berlin Institute) |
The influence of social context, particularly during childhood and adolescence, is critical for human development. The socio-economic status of a family, cultural norms, and community resources further shape the social context, influencing access to educational opportunities, healthcare, and recreational activities. In addition to the social context, genetic predispositions provide the biological foundation upon which various traits and behaviors are built. This genetic framework is often viewed as a "fixed" component, setting certain limits and potentials for an individual’s development. However, the interaction between genetic predispositions and the (changing) social context is where much of developmental potential and diversity arise.
The dynamic interplay between genes and environment suggests that neither genetics nor environment alone can fully explain developmental outcomes. Therefore, the connection of genetic information and survey data is crucial. It allows researchers to examine how genetic predispositions interact with environmental factors, offering a more comprehensive understanding of human behavior and health outcomes. This interdisciplinary approach can lead to more personalized and effective interventions in public health, education, and social policy.
Incorporating genetic data into social panel surveys presents significant ethical challenges. Ensuring informed consent, maintaining willingness to participate as well as confidentiality, and addressing potential stigmatization or discrimination based on genetic information are some of the issues that need to be addressed. Researchers must navigate these ethical concerns carefully to protect participants' rights and promote trust in the research process.
This session aims to address the conference theme by showcasing the integration of novel data sources (genetic information) with traditional survey methods. We will discuss the benefits of combining genetic information with traditional survey data to enhance the understanding of complex traits and behaviors. Topics include the logistics of collecting biological samples, ethical considerations, data integration techniques, and the potential for genetic data to enrich social research.