Who Am I?: Identity in the Age of Consumer DNA Testing

Have you ever wondered about the origins of your ancestors? Are you curious about your ethnicity or race? Have you heard or told stories about your family's past? Would you like to know the science that can help to uncover some of these mysteries?

In Who Am I? Identity in the Age of Consumer DNA Testing, communication scholars Anita Kathy Foeman and Bessie Lee Lawton present readers with the most comprehensive and cutting-edge research on DNA and identity construction. They investigate the modern trend of individuals using direct-to-consumer DNA test results to explore and negotiate their personal and social identities. This book explores the numerous misconceptions that exist with regard to race, culture, and ethnicity, and how DNA kits have changed the ways in which race and ethnicity are understood and acted upon in our everyday lives.

Featuring groundbreaking research, illuminating case studies, and a compelling analysis of what makes us who we are, Who Am I? is an ideal book for courses in identity, diversity, and other social sciences, including intercultural communication, sociology, anthropology, and psychology.

Anita Kathy Foeman (Ph.D., Temple University) is a professor of communication and media at West Chester University. Dr. Foeman was one of the first in her field to publish on diversity in the workplace as a positive development. Her ongoing research explores diversity in society, including multicultural organizations, families, and people.

Bessie Lee Lawton (Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania) is a professor of communication and media at West Chester University. Her research focuses on interracial relationships, portrayals of Native Americans on YouTube, cultural aspects of heritage language learners, and pedagogical issues related to teaching general education courses.