Female and Male Perspectives on Paternity Fraud in Jamaica: A Multidimensional Approach to Legal, Social, and Ethical Solutions

Abstract

Paternity fraud remains a persistent challenge in Jamaica, carrying significant legal, social, and emotional consequences for men, women, and children alike. Despite its prevalence, research has often overlooked the nuanced perspectives of both genders, limiting the effectiveness of existing responses. This paper examines the perspectives of both females and males on paternity fraud in Jamaica through a multidisciplinary lens, integrating sociological, psychological, and legal insights. Utilising secondary data from governmental reports, court cases, and peer-reviewed studies, including key contributions from Bourne and colleagues, the analysis highlights economic hardship, cultural norms, and ethical dilemmas as central drivers of paternity misrepresentation. The findings reveal complex gendered experiences, women’s decisions are often motivated by economic necessity and social pressures, and men’s struggles with emotional betrayal and legal vulnerabilities. To address these multifaceted issues, the study proposes a multidimensional approach encompassing legal reforms for paternity verification and protection, public education campaigns to reduce stigma, and expanded social support services. By incorporating gender-sensitive and culturally informed strategies, Jamaica can develop practical solutions that uphold family integrity and promote justice for all parties involved. This research contributes to the academic discourse on paternity fraud and offers a policy framework that is adaptable to similar contexts.