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Insecure attachment and internalizing behavior problems in growth discordant identical twins
Sophie G Groene1, Lisette Jansen2, Ratna N G B Tan3
1Neonatology, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Dept. of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Molecular Epidemiology, Dept. of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
Early Human Development
|September 30, 2022
Summary
Monochorionic twins experiencing selective fetal growth restriction show higher attachment insecurity. Smaller twins within these pairs exhibit more internalizing behaviors and negative emotions, suggesting increased vulnerability to anxiety and depression.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal Medicine
- Developmental Psychology
- Twin Studies
Background:
- Psychosocial development in monochorionic (MC) twins with selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) remains understudied.
- Understanding these outcomes is crucial for daily functioning and future relationships.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate psychosocial development, attachment, and school functioning in MC twins with sFGR.
- To compare outcomes between smaller and larger twins within these pairs and with the general population.
Main Methods:
- An observational cohort study was conducted.
- Parent-report questionnaires assessed behavior, temperament, attachment, and school functioning.
- Participants included MC twins with sFGR (birth weight discordance ≥20%) born between 2002 and 2017, aged 3-17 years.
Main Results:
- Attachment insecurity (ambivalence/resistance and total) was higher in MC twins with sFGR compared to the general population.
- Smaller twins demonstrated more internalizing behaviors and higher negative affect than larger twins.
- Smaller twins also had a lower secondary school level.
Conclusions:
- MC twins with sFGR exhibit increased ambivalent/resistant attachment insecurity due to pregnancy complications.
- Smaller twins show a propensity for negative emotions and internalizing behaviors, indicating heightened sensitivity to depression and anxiety.
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