ABSTRACT
Expanding on the conceptual foundation developed in the previous chapter, Chapter 7 explores the complex relationship between twins, the twin-identity, and the co-twin relationship, twin–singleton interactions, twin life experiences, and the occurrence of chronic twin-loneliness. This chapter examines five key occurrences within twins’ lived experiences that fuel twin-loneliness: the absence through fatality of the co-twin; estrangement or emotional distance within the co-twin relationship; twins’ maladaptive “eternal quests” to find a twin-replacement romantic partner; maladaptive twin social cognition; and twins’ particular sensitivity to typical traumatic life events. Next, the chapter interprets twin voices that discuss what twins believe are the four main causes of their chronic twin-loneliness: the tragedy of twin-loss; an estranged or emotionally distant co-twin relationship; twins’ unrealizably high expectations of significant others; and twin dissatisfaction with daily social interaction. Finally, the chapter interprets additional voices that discussed the five main strategies that twins employ to reduce or manage their twin-loneliness: appropriately working either to repair, accept, or terminate strained co-twin relationships; distracting themselves by keeping busy; better understanding themselves through therapy; building a network of affirmative non-twin connections; and joining a community of like-minded, connection-desiring, non-related twins.
