INTERVIEW: Marcella Katjijova on the Importance of Paternity Test Centers: Securing Identity and Psychological Well-being

Psychological Counsellor Marcella Katjijova has shed light on a critical development across Namibia—the establishment of paternity test centers in various towns. This initiative is not only a step towards fostering transparency in family dynamics but also crucial for ensuring the psychological well-being of children who are often caught in the crossfire of unresolved paternity issues.

“One of the biggest challenges children face is growing up without truly knowing who their father is,” says Katjijova. “This lack of clarity often leads to a lingering sense of confusion and emotional trauma that can last well into adulthood.”

She emphasizes how crucial it is for children to understand their lineage, both from a biological and emotional perspective. “Knowing one’s roots plays a significant role in identity formation. Without that knowledge, children are left questioning their place within the family and society.”

Katjijova believes that the introduction of paternity centers is a powerful tool for both families and the legal system to ensure that children grow up with a clear understanding of their heritage. “These centers will bring truth into the open, providing families with the opportunity to address paternity issues early on, avoiding the emotional fallout that can occur when such truths are revealed too late.”

However, Katjijova also points out that paternity testing can have its own set of psychological consequences, particularly for fathers who may discover that the child they have been raising is not biologically theirs. “It can be heartbreaking and even disruptive to families. These revelations can strain or break homes, as trust is shattered. However, in the long run, the truth is always healthier for everyone involved.”

She advocates for greater honesty, especially from mothers. “Sometimes, as women, we don’t realize the long-term impact withholding the truth can have—not just on the fathers, but more importantly, on the children. In some cases, adults discover late in life that their upbringing was built on a lie, which can make them feel like their entire sense of self has been undermined.”

Katjijova hopes that the availability of affordable paternity test centers will make it easier for families to address these matters early on, sparing children from years of confusion. “It’s about creating an environment where children can grow up knowing exactly where they come from, which helps shape their understanding of who they are and what their future could look like.”

In the end, Marcella Katjijova’s insight shows that while paternity testing can come with its emotional challenges, it ultimately serves as a gateway to truth, healing, and emotional security for both children and their families.