Healthy Conversations About Paternity Testing
Hi. I’m psychiatrist Dr. Janet Taylor. And I’m here to talk about the importance about having certainty around paternity. 1 in 5 Americans have said that they, or a close friend of family member, have questioned the paternity of a child.
A paternity test will answer these questions. And, no matter what the results are, it’s important that all the adults involved make a shared pledge to keep the best interests of the child as the number one priority.
Knowing the truth about paternity, and having both parents involved in a child’s life, is so important to the health and well being of that child. According to researchers, children who live without their biological father are, on average, two to three times more likely to be poor, to have emotional and behavioral problems, to struggle in school and to use drugs. These kids are also at higher risk to become victims of child abuse and to engage in criminal behavior.
Knowing the truth about a parent’s health history is essential for medical reasons, too, such as identifying some diseases or disorders a child may have inherited from their mother or father.
Every child deserves to grow up in an honest, loving, and nurturing environment. Determining paternity is a good first step to providing that for the child.
<< WATCH THE VIDEO ON THIS TOPIC BY DR. JANET TAYLOR
Blog written by Dr. Janet Taylor, IDENTIGENE Spokesperson and Community Psychiatrist.
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peejay says
we have a bad situation. one of my older sisters had a baby. my parents adopted her for my sister was unfit. threw all these yrs. we have the question and sad but true. we need to find out if our father is the father of my adopted sister/neice. her mom will not admitt or take the dna test. if i offer to do it along with my little adopted sister would we get the results that is needed for us to mend our family
Identigene says
Hi Peejay,
At Identigene we are our customers’ best advocate. We know that not only is addressing a the paternity of a child important for all parties involved, but that it can be life changing. We hope we can help you feel comfortable in asking us any question you may have.
To best advise you on how to proceed with your question of paternity, we would need more information on who is able to test as well as other questions pertaining to your case. Our friendly client support would be happy to assist you in that matter, you can reach them at 1-888-404-GENE, Monday- Friday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. ET. Thank you for your comment!