An online survey was conducted with a random sample of 1,039 men and women aged 18+, all members of the Impulse Research proprietary online panel. The Impulse Research proprietary online panel closely watches US population demographics and the respondents are representative of men and women aged 18+. Research was conducted in December 2011. The overall sampling error rate for this survey is +/-3% at the 95% rate of confidence.

The survey,  commissioned by IDENTIGENE , the largest direct-to-consumer DNA paternity testing laboratory and makers of the IDENTIGENE DNA Paternity Test, reveals that:

• More than one in ten (11 %) adults ages 18 years and older said they have personally been in a situation where a paternity test was appropriate.
• Nearly one in five (18%) said  they or a close friend or family member have questioned paternity. 

The results of the survey help to uncover the prevalence of paternity questions in the U.S., as well as adults’ intentions to identify biological fathers in the New Year.

• 51% of adults with paternity questions either plan to address their question in 2012 or would like to, but are not sure where to start.
• Men with paternity questions are twice as likely (51%) than women (25%) to address paternity in 2012.

New Year prompts action

The research helps confirm a trend IDENTIGENE  has noticed since it launched the IDENTIGENE  DNA Paternity Test in retail pharmacies in 2007. Each year the company experiences a spike in first quarter sales: something it attributes, in part, to New Year’s resolutions.

‘The new year definitely seems to trigger many adults with paternity questions to take steps to address their question,’ says Steven Smith, Executive Director for IDENTIGENE . ‘We want adults with paternity issues to know they are not alone and there are many others looking for answers, too. But most importantly, it’s vital for them to know that addressing a paternity question is not only a responsible step to take, but a thoughtful and caring decision, as determining paternity can provide many valuable benefits for all involved.’

Why knowing paternity is important

Although the specific reasoning for paternity testing varies from person to person, the benefits of confirming paternity are multifaceted and far reaching. In the survey, three in four adults (77%) said they believe it’s important for a child to know their biological father.

Click here for tips from our clients on how to talk to a child about paternity testing.

From emotional and health benefits to financial welfare, paternity answers can have many important and positive impacts for children. ‘Knowledge is empowering,’ says Smith. ‘It’s important for children and families to know the truth about paternity, as it can impact a child’s health as well as their emotional health and well-being for years to come.’