A mother discusses her concerns about genetic transmission of schizophrenia with the nurse saying, 'My son is a fraternal twin. He has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. Will my other son develop schizophrenia, too?' The response that is both sensitive and shows understanding of the genetic component is:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it provides an accurate and sensitive response. Fraternal twins do not share the exact genetic makeup, so the chance of the other twin developing schizophrenia is lower compared to identical twins. This response acknowledges the genetic component of schizophrenia while also offering reassurance based on the understanding of genetic transmission.
Choices A and C are incorrect because they do not provide accurate information about the genetic risk of schizophrenia in fraternal twins and may not offer the mother a clear understanding of the situation. Choice B is incorrect as it provides a generalized statistic for identical twins, not fraternal twins, which could lead to unnecessary anxiety for the mother.
Nokea