In recent years, Nigeria has seen a rise in cases of paternity fraud, sparking a deeper conversation around DNA testing and its implications for families.
While many point to infidelity as the primary cause of paternity discrepancies, psychologists say that the story is far more complex.
Speaking on the issue, mental health experts Dr. Samuel Olatoye and Dr. Juliet Ottoh have highlighted a range of factors—from genetic testing errors to baby exchanges—that could explain these discrepancies.
Also, a report published in Global Scientific Journal weighs in on the issues revolving around paternity fraud.
Here are some insights from scholars that shed new light on the world of DNA testing and paternity fraud.
1. Genetic testing errors are more common than you think
While DNA testing is often viewed as the gold standard for determining paternity, it is not without its flaws. Psychologists have pointed out that inaccuracies in genetic testing can lead to devastating consequences for families.
Dr Juliet Ottoh of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital stressed that these errors could happen due to negligence or the use of unreliable labs. To avoid false results, couples are urged to seek out reputable testing centres and even consider second opinions before drawing conclusions.
2. Medical negligence could be a major contributor
It’s not just infidelity that can lead to paternity fraud—hospital errors, such as baby exchanges, are also a troubling factor.
Ottoh cited numerous instances where babies were accidentally swapped at birth, leading to long-term confusion about paternity.
This is a reminder that errors within the medical system, rather than personal misdeeds, could be at play.
3. Lack of pre-marital genetic screening leads to unexpected surprises
Another overlooked factor in paternity fraud cases is the lack of genetic testing before marriage. Many couples in Nigeria skip comprehensive genetic screening, unaware that it could reveal important issues, such as genetic compatibility.
Without this vital step, parents may find themselves shocked by later discoveries about their children’s true parentage. Experts recommend that couples include genetic testing as part of their pre-marital health check-ups to prevent surprises down the line.
4. Trust issues have serious mental health consequences
The emotional and psychological toll of discovering paternity fraud can be severe. When trust is broken, it doesn’t just affect the parents—it deeply impacts the child as well.
Psychologists warn that children who grow up in households where DNA testing has been conducted may suffer from a sense of alienation or mistrust, even if the test confirms their paternity. The mere act of questioning paternity can create lasting emotional scars.
5. Older men are more likely to request DNA tests
According to a report from Smart DNA, men aged 41 and older are the most frequent initiators of DNA testing. Psychologists link this trend to the rising concerns over genetic compatibility in later fatherhood.
As men age, they may become more worried about fertility issues or potential health risks for their children, prompting them to seek reassurance through paternity testing.
