It is important for you to establish paternity. By doing so you show your child that you love and care for him and are proud to be his parent. There are many benefits to establishing paternity. Being a parent is the responsibility of both the father and the mother. Establishing paternity usually encourages the involvement of the father in the child's life. Children want to feel like they belong. Establishing paternity helps them feel part of a family and be more secure of who they are. It also helps identify family members on the father's side, as well as the opportunity to learn his/her heritage. Knowledge of a complete medical history is important to your child's health. A doctor usually fills out a family history form on your child’s first visit. It is very important since some diseases are hereditary. It is vitally important information should your child or another member of your immediate family should need a donor for a transplant.
