Further possible physiological connectedness between identical twins: the London study
Adrian Parker1, Christian Jensen
1Department of Psychology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden. Adrian.Parker@psy.gu.se
Explore (New York, N.Y.)
|January 9, 2013
Summary
This study explored physiological synchrony in identical twins (monozygotic twins). Findings suggest potential for shared physiological responses between twins during specific stimuli, warranting further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Psychophysiology
- Twin Studies
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Investigating physiological synchrony in monozygotic twins.
- Exploring potential for shared responses to external stimuli.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test for synchronous physiological responses in one twin when the other is exposed to shock and surprise stimuli.
- To assess the validity of a methodology for detecting such responses.
Main Methods:
- Four pairs of monozygotic twins participated in 25-minute sessions.
- Stimuli (shock, surprise) were presented randomly across eight trial periods within blocks.
- Physiological data were analyzed by a polygraph expert to identify stimulus-response correlations.
Main Results:
- Six correct stimulus placements (hits) were identified out of 24 trial blocks.
- This exceeded chance expectation (three hits).
- One pair of twins accounted for four of the six correct placements.
Conclusions:
- The findings provide preliminary support for synchronous physiological responses between monozygotic twins.
- The methodology shows promise for future, larger-scale twin studies.
- Further research is justified to explore the mechanisms of this observed synchrony.
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