Psychosocial Outcomes of Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Ancestry Testing Among Descendants of the Global African Community (DotGAC): A Scoping Review Protocol

This scoping review protocol examines psychosocial outcomes of direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic ancestry testing among Descendants of the Global African Community (DotGAC)—an inclusive term representing individuals with African ancestry across continental, diaspora, and multi-generational contexts. Using PRISMA-ScR methodology integrated with community-based participatory research (CBPR) principles, this review maps evidence on identity formation, family relationships, meaning-making (including faith/religion frameworks), mental health impacts, and coping mechanisms following ancestry discoveries. The review specifically addresses populations historically underrepresented in genomic research and affected by kinship knowledge disruption through forced displacement. Key methodological features include: dual independent screening, community co-researcher involvement in interpretation and cultural review, independent academic oversight to mitigate dual relationship risks, and transparent disclosure of team composition. The integrated theoretical framework combines trauma-informed socially just research, family history knowledge theory, Africentric psychology, and Peseschkian's Positive Psychotherapy. This unfunded review is conducted by an interdisciplinary team with expertise in scoping review methodology, transcultural psychiatry, genetic genealogy, African diaspora studies, and lived experience with DTC ancestry testing. Findings will inform culturally grounded interventions, ethical guidance for genetic ancestry services, and future community-based research addressing psychosocial dimensions of ancestry reconnection.