Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 8, 2025

How to Create and Use Binocular Rivalry
Published on: November 10, 2010
When the mirror breaks: Meaning-making in twin loss
Michal Mahat-Shamir1, Hagit Freireich-Eyal1
1School of Social Work, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel.
Abstract:
Despite well-documented intimacy within twin relationships, meaning-making processes following twin loss remain underexplored. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), this study investigated how individuals reconstruct meaning after losing a twin. Semi-structured interviews with eleven adult twins who lost a twin identified two primary themes: (a) physical amputation and (b) alone in a world meant for two. Participants utilized embodied metaphors like "amputation" and "tear," emphasizing the existential rupture and incompleteness resulting from their loss. Twinship was depicted as fundamentally relational, shaping self-perception and life narratives. Findings underscore the need to recognize bereaved twins as a distinct group requiring specialized therapeutic support, guided by relationally sensitive meaning reconstruction approaches. Future research should examine cross-cultural contexts and potential differences between identical and fraternal twins.
Related Concept Videos
Bonanno's Theory of Grieving
Resilience
Minor Losses in Pipes
Valves play a significant role in generating minor losses by obstructing or redirecting the fluid flow. When a valve is closed or partially closed, it restricts the flow...
Loss of Tumor Suppressor Gene Functions
When the tumor suppressor genes develop mutations or are lost, cells start growing out of control, leading to cancer. However, a single functional copy of the tumor suppressor gene is enough for the cells to maintain their normal functions and cell...
Major Losses in Pipes
Fluid flow can be classified as laminar or turbulent, primarily based on the Reynolds number. This dimensionless number reflects the relative influence of inertial to...
Nondisjunction
Long-term Depression

