Twins

[jubjub]

Being one myself, I have a question about it:

Are twins more likely to have a low sense of self-esteem and self-worth? Is is more difficult for them to see themselves as individuals? Are they more prone to emotional and psychological difficulties than single individuals?

As I recall, I felt much more secure and less stressed when my sister was close by (in the same town, that is.) She has been on the other side of the country since l979. MSN has been a great boon, though, because we can be in contact almost every day and it doesn't cost very much!

[David Baxter]

I've often wondered that myself, jubjub, having no direct experience with twins myself. I suspect it can work both ways but what I have read (and I'm not claiming that's a whole lot) has suggested that the sense of security, "not being alone", is more common than lack of individual identity. I also suspect that the outcome is dependent to some extent on how parents of twins handle the issue.

[jubjub]

It's quite odd being a twin, really. I handle being alone much better than my sister does. I enjoy being alone. I do feel like I am not a whole person though, as someone who is born as a single child would.

[Cat Dancer]

I would love to read about this. I am not a twin, but I married a twin. I wonder if these are any articles or research about this.

[jubjub]

I'm sure if you look around the internet or check out your local library you will find a lot of information about tests done with twins. I should probably do that myself, but I just thought I'd get Dr. Baxter's general spin on this topic!

[David Baxter]

To be honest, most of the twin research I've read has to do with trying to tease out genetic vs. experiential contributions to various disorders like schizophrenia, depression, psychopathy, etc.

So, Janet, you've just been appointed the person in charge of internet research on emotional and social development in twins.

We'll expect a report first thing next Monday.

:o)