Research into the experiences of people receiving unexpected results from DNA testing continues.

With publications like the recent one in Current Biology that revealed the famous composer Ludwig van Beethoven was not a Beethoven by DNA, we are learning that genetic discoveries can happen decades…and even centuries…after the fact.

Experiences of a misattributed parentage discovery vary widely, and those most closely connected have an emotional journey to travel that is more intense and up-ending than those who are more distantly connected.

A new study based at Long Island University aims to explore parental identity experiences in greater depth, from a small number of adults who have taken a DNA test and received an unexpected discovery related to their own parentage.

Recruitment is happening now for individuals who have made a discovery from a DNA test that either mom or dad wasn’t genetically related to them.

Here are more details about the study and eligibility requirements, in the words of lead researcher Joanna Rybnick and the team at Long Island University:

Participation in the study will require a one-time commitment of approximately one to two hours for a Zoom interview. Participants will be contacted via an encrypted video messaging software to conduct on-line interviews. The interview will be conducted online utilizing a password protected Zoom link that will solely be created for your individual interview. The interview will be video and audio recorded. The video recording will be deleted immediately following the interview. The audio recording will be saved and transcribed by the principal investigator as to ensure accuracy of your experiences. Every effort will be made to ensure that confidentiality and anonymity will be maintained. Additionally, as a thank you for your participation, you will be entered into a raffle in which one individual will win a $40 gift card via email.

To be included in this study, participants must meet the following criteria:
1) Aged 18 years or older.
2) Have gone through DNA testing.
3) Have discovered previously unknown information related to paternal and/or maternal lineage.

Are you an NPE? Reach out to the research team to express interest in participating.