FDC Legal & Ethical Issues in DNA

Question 1

What is informed consent in DNA testing?

Accepted Answer

Voluntary permission before DNA collection

Answer

Informed consent in DNA testing means that an individual voluntarily agrees to have their DNA collected after being fully informed about the purpose, potential uses, risks, and benefits of the collection. This process upholds an individual's autonomy and ethical rights, ensuring they make a knowledgeable decision without coercion.

Question 2

What law protects genetic information from discrimination?

Accepted Answer

GINA

Answer

The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) is a landmark federal law specifically designed to protect individuals from discrimination based on their genetic information in health insurance and employment. It prevents employers and health insurers from using genetic test results to make decisions about coverage or hiring.

Question 3

Why is chain of custody critical in DNA evidence handling?

Accepted Answer

Ensure evidence integrity

Answer

Chain of custody is critical in DNA evidence handling because it provides an unbroken, documented chronological record of who has had possession of the evidence, when, and for what purpose. This meticulous documentation ensures the evidence's integrity, proving it has not been tampered with or contaminated, which is vital for its admissibility and credibility in court.

Question 4

What ethical issue arises from unauthorized DNA database access?

Accepted Answer

Privacy violations

Answer

Unauthorized access to DNA databases constitutes a severe privacy violation because genetic information is highly personal and sensitive, revealing intimate details about an individual and their family. Such breaches can lead to misuse of data, discrimination, and erode public trust in forensic and genetic systems.

Question 5

What is the primary purpose of DNA evidence in court?

Accepted Answer

Scientifically reliable identification

Answer

The primary purpose of DNA evidence in court is to provide scientifically reliable identification, either linking an individual to a crime or excluding them. DNA analysis offers a powerful and highly accurate method for establishing connections between suspects, victims, and crime scenes, thereby aiding in the pursuit of justice based on robust scientific data.

(FDC) Forensic DNA Certification Practice Test

(FDC) Forensic DNA Certification Practice Test

FDC Legal & Ethical Issues in DNA