An exploration of the experience of openness in donor conception families in relation to the social and emotional experience of young people.

Section A provides a critical review of the research literature relating to the legal and ethical rights to awareness of genetic origins in the context of donor conception. Definitions and a historical context of the pertinent issues are provided, followed by a discussion of understanding drawn from theoretical literature and a systematic review of research related to openness in donor conception. Potential gaps and requirements of future research are highlighted.
Section B presents the findings of a grounded theory study which aimed to explore the experience of openness in donor conception families, in relation to the social and emotional experience of young people. Participants were 8 mothers, 7 fathers and 5 young people from 11 UK heterosexual families. Young people were aged between 12 and 25 years. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and the data analysed using Charmaz’s constructivist grounded theory model (2006). The constructed grounded theory extends current research and highlights the complexity involved in the process of being open about donor conception. The constructed model presents a cyclical process reflecting the on-going nature of the experience and demonstrates that openness is not a one-off event, but is continually negotiated throughout the development of the child and family. The model suggests that positive outcomes for the child and family can be achieved through openness.
Section C provides a critical appraisal of the research methodology and findings, as well as clinical implications and suggestions for future research.