The special relationship between twins allows researchers to examine the differences between genetic and environmental influences over both physical and mental health, as well as traits and behaviors. By studying twins, we can learn a lot about diseases, disorders, and human nature in general. Research on twins helps answer questions about many aspects of being human. About three or four in every 1000 births are identical twins.
The Quirks of Twinship
The fascination with twins is evident. The Internet, for example, is filled with questions on the peculiarities of twinship. There are queries about twinship skipping generations, whether more twins are left-handed, why they suffer separation anxiety , if there is fighting inside the womb, among other curiosities.
Twins are also more commonly female, rather than male. But male embryos die at a higher rate while in-utero than do female embryos. The death rate is also higher for twins in-utero overall.
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There is no empirical proof that twins skip generations. However, if the father is a silent carrier of the gene for hyperovulation, he may pass the tendency for twins on to a daughter. This gives the appearance of “skipping” a generation.
Explore More About Understanding Twins
For a comprehensive understanding of understanding twins, read our complete guide: