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Paternity testing is a tricky business that is best handled with a significant amount of caution and counseling.

If you are in a situation that requires a paternity test, the odds are that you are involved in one of the most stressful times of your life. Every person who decides a paternity test is necessary must remember that it is not just two adults who are emotionally caught up in the questions; the well-being of the child should always be kept in mind.

There are home paternity tests available now, although most are not legally recognized by courts. They are relatively simple to administer, requiring cheek swabs of each member as DNA samples. They can be quite expensive, and it is also paramount that someone utilizing a home paternity test maintain a high level of care- the swabs must not touch each other, and it is vital that each is labeled and put into the correct envelope when sent back to the laboratory.

DNA paternity tests that are self administered take a significant amount of time before the results come back to the potential father. You must be prepared to wait through this anxious time.

Whatever your doubts or suspicions, you must always keep in mind that a paternity test will take place on an individual child who reacts to their environment and to their human influences. If the outcome is negative, then you must be prepared to make a decision that might be more emotionally involved than you think, especially if the child has been a part of your life for any significant amount of time. If that child sees you as a parental figure, you must be prepared to accept the consequences of whatever you do next. Keep in mind that whatever has passed, it is not the fault of the child whose paternity is in question.

You will also want to have a plan for if the paternity test comes back positive.

Remember, it is not just you and another adult involved in the situation. You must remember that some of the actions you take might have a significant and lasting impression on the child whose paternity is in question. Make sure as you involve yourself in this process that both yourself and the child have access to a professional counselor who is qualified to provide advice and strategies for your particular situation.