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If you have genetic counseling, and discover that there is a risk of a genetic linked disorder, would you still choose to have children?
In my case, both birthparents have a family history of schizophrenia. Which means, statistically, my children will have a 15% chance of developing a psychotic disorder. Don't know exactly what the odds are for neurotic disorders, but considering that all of my birthfather's siblings have OCD and/or ADD, I'd say the statistics must be pretty high! And I know there is a high risk that my children with have depression, as I have major depressive disorder. I have always wanted children, but now I am seriously questioning whether or not I want to pass on my genetic make-up.
I don't want to raise a child with a major mental illness, but would do so if presented with the situation (whether through birth or adoption). However, I think if I knowingly took the risk of having my own children, and one or more of them developed schizophrenia or another disorder that prevented them from living a normal life, I would feel incredibly guilty.
My therapist's opinion on the matter is that having children is a risk, no matter what your genetic history is, and that the risk is worth it. But then, all four of her children are healthy!
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