Genetic testing to identify children's talents is gaining attention among parents. Exploiting parental aspirations for gifted children, many services now advertise the ability to "predict a child's aptitude through genetic decoding." Several testing centers in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer these tests, including assessments of personality, memory, language skills, and aptitude.
However, many genetics and medical experts believe genetic testing for aptitude prediction lacks reliable scientific basis. Dr. Nguyen Son Tung, a member of the Vietnam Medical Genetics Association, asserts this method isn't entirely accurate. According to Dr. Bui Chi Bao, Head of the Department of Biochemistry and Immunology at Ho Chi Minh City National University's Faculty of Medicine, genetic variations play only a minor role and don't fully determine a person's talents. Environment, education, and training are more influential factors, Dr. Bao stated.
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Technician in the lab conducting genetic testing. Photo: An An |
Technician in the lab conducting genetic testing. Photo: An An
Dr. Nguyen Khac Han Hoan, Head of the Medical Genetic Testing Department at Tu Du Hospital, agrees. She states that complex traits like intelligence or aptitude are influenced not only by genes but also by the interplay of environment and education. Relying on test results to shape a child's future could lead to mistakes, causing parents to miss their child's true potential.
"In standard medical practice, genetic specialists have no basis for recommending this test," Dr. Hoan said.
Experts advise parents to establish an educational foundation based on observation, real-world experiences, and nurturing their children's passions. Parents should connect with their children and encourage them to participate in various academic, athletic, and artistic activities. This allows parents to identify areas where their children show interest or rapid progress. Most importantly, fostering self-confidence and creating a supportive environment helps children's talents emerge and develop naturally.
Genetic testing should only be conducted with a clear medical indication, such as suspected genetic disorders. For talent identification, there's currently insufficient scientific basis for widespread recommendation.
Thuy Quynh - My Y
