ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the importance of the establishment of separateness between twins, and the difficulties that an actual separation will pose for them. Whether through physical distance or death, the loss of a twin will create a situation in which the remaining twin has to negotiate particular processes to enable an emotional separation from their twin. Twins are at greater risk throughout the pregnancy and birth than are single babies, and they may face more challenges after birth as well. The chapter looks at the loss of a twin at various different stages in development, both as a result of the death of one twin, but also at the sense of loss through separation, and the likely impact on the survivor or separated twin. The loss of any sibling is traumatic and is difficult to process. Twins who have lost the other twin before the age of six months will suffer the most marked or severe effects of twin loss.
