PATERNITY FRAUD is an incredible crime that many men in our society have fallen victim of.
This occurs when mothers identify men or call their names as the biological fathers, knowing full well they are not. These unsuspecting males provide financial and emotional support for these children whom they believe are theirs.
Wealth and social standing are but two factors which cause women to follow this predacious act. Unfortunately, there are no consequences for mothers who are guilty of this form of trickery.
It is my belief that these mothers should be held accountable and criminally charged for their actions.
In recent times some men who suspect that they are not the father of the child have been taking the awkward step of requesting a paternity test to know their status.
These men are of the belief that the only way to conclusively prove that they are not biologically linked to the child is through the paternity test or DNA testing.
Conversely, there are some men who might have a gut feeling that the child might not be theirs but are reluctant to take a bold step forward and have the DNA test. Such an action is likely to create significant tension in the relationship for it assumes that the mother might have been unfaithful.
Furthermore, the thought that the child might at a future date become aware of the earlier testing can be a deterrent for some men.
It boggles the mind to think that in an era such as this some males would be querying if the children their names are called for are theirs. The fact that there are doubts will lead me to believe there is likelihood that another man could be the father.
If a man suspects that his sexual partner has been a “player”, why would he continue in the relationship? I purport that if men do not want their names called for the children, they should do the correct thing and use a condom – “muzzle the nozzle”.
Not only would they be protecting themselves from their name being called as father but, more importantly, from any of the sexually-transmitted diseases.
How then in an age where there is constant education on the dangers of unprotected sex would these situations arise?
Clearly, these men are not listening to the many messages being promoted by the various media on sexual protection.
Today I offer a few simple tips as guidance to my readers, in general, and males, in particular.
• Rhonda A. Blackman is an educator, a National Development Scholar and former President of the Early Childhood Association of Barbados Inc. Email: [email protected]
