Theory and research based on the experiences of adult twins
Raising twins is certainly a huge challenge for their parents, grandparents, and caregivers. The deep closeness that twins share is life-sustaining for each twin’s psychological development. The twin bond can confuse parents because what underlies the closeness, feelings, and comfort is imperceptible to outsiders. I wrote in detail about the depth of the twin bond …
Continue reading “How to Nurture Emotional Health & Happiness in Twins”
Fighting is a serious issue for young twins, parents of twins, and adult twins. Twin fighting is a style of interaction and a part of identity development that grows out of the twin bond and lives on and on as small children develop into adults. Competition is one acceptable and understandable form of fighting. Twins …
Continue reading “The No-Share Zone Is Critical in Twin Relationships”
Without a doubt, identical and fraternal twins must be seen as individuals, each with his or her own strengths and challenges. Respect for the twin bond―a deep attachment―is critical, because undermining the twin relationship will confuse young twins, leaving them unprepared for interacting socially at school and in after-school activities. Twins need to revere their …
Continue reading “How to Avoid Double Trouble: Advice on Parenting Twins”
Parents of multiples often call me in a state of panic or confusion. “My twins are so different from the other children at school and in the neighborhood. They rely on one another so intently. And then they fight like cats and dogs. What is wrong with my twins? What am I doing wrong?” I …
Continue reading “Twins Develop Differently Than Single Children”