Recent DNA reports revealing paternity discrepancies have prompted psychologists to examine the issue of paternity fraud, where children are found not to be biologically linked to their alleged fathers. They attribute this phenomenon to factors such as medical errors, inaccuracies in genetic testing, and even baby exchanges, rather than solely infidelity.
Mental health experts pointed out that various factors contribute to questioning a child's paternity, extending beyond the common assumption of infidelity. Issues like negligence, ignorance, and errors in genetic testing can also play significant roles.
In Nigeria, paternity fraud has become an alarming trend, with many families reeling from the shocking discoveries that children do not belong to their supposed fathers, sometimes resulting in divorce.
While infidelity is frequently cited as a primary cause, psychologists emphasize that other factors should be considered. Dr. Juliet Ottoh, a clinical psychologist at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, highlighted the importance of examining multiple elements before concluding infidelity.
She noted that while infidelity is often assumed to be the main reason for paternity discrepancies, factors such as medical staff negligence, genetic testing inaccuracies, and hospital errors—like baby exchanges—are also significant contributors.
Dr. Ottoh stressed the need for thorough investigations, including verifying genetic test results through reputable laboratories before making assumptions about paternal identity. “It’s not always the couple’s fault. Sometimes, it stems from test errors, ignorance, or negligence. We’ve heard of cases where babies were swapped in hospitals due to carelessness, leading to paternity issues,” she explained. She added, “Many factors can be responsible for this, which is why it’s essential to explore all possibilities."