‘… modern societies also place twins at the center of an insoluble dilemma. The dilemma is each twin’s need to internalize or at least inhibit individual roles, thereby minimizing the significance of being a twin, while at the same time being chronically confronted with a role which above all prioritises the fact of being a twin.’
This quote from the concluding chapter of Dr Stewart’s latest book, Parenting Twins: The Adventure Begins, captures the essence of her poignant insights into the psychology of twinship. As the mother of adult twin sons and an accomplished sociology professor, Dr Stewart draws from her academic expertise and personal experience to offer an engaging exploration of twin dynamics.
First Encounter with Dr Stewart’s Work
My introduction to Dr Stewart’s work began with her earlier academic book, Exploring Twins, which examines twinship as a distinctly social phenomenon. Drawing upon an impressive range of interdisciplinary, historical, and cross-cultural data, Dr Stewart argues that twinship is a recurring anomaly challenging societal norms. Her exploration of sociological, psychological, and cultural insights into twins captivated me.
A New Perspective for a Wider Audience
Dr Stewart’s recent book, Parenting Twins: The Adventure Begins, builds upon the ideas in her earlier work but aims for a broader, more general audience. Her goal was to distill her academic insights into a format that is accessible and engaging for parents, twins, and others interested in the subject. In this, she has succeeded admirably.
The book begins with a fascinating discussion of the role of twins in mythology and social media. Subsequent chapters delve into key emotional issues twins face, such as individuation, rivalry, competition, ambivalence, guilt, and twin loss. Dr Stewart also addresses the unique demands of a multiple pregnancy, along with the economic, emotional, and social challenges that arise before, during, and after the birth of twins.
A Balanced View of Twinship
One of the book’s strengths is Dr Stewart’s even-handed approach to the twin experience. She thoughtfully examines both the advantages of twinship and the challenges twins face due to normal developmental circumstances. Her candid discussions offer valuable insights into the complexities of twin relationships.
An Invaluable Resource for Understanding Twinship
Parenting Twins is an excellent resource for anyone seeking to understand the twin experience, whether as a parent, a twin, or simply someone intrigued by the topic. Dr Stewart’s ability to synthesize a vast body of information into a concise, readable, and digestible format makes this book a noteworthy addition to twin literature.
Her authentic tone and extensive knowledge make complex concepts accessible, enriching our understanding of the environmental, genetic, and psychological factors influencing twin relationships. Particularly compelling are her discussions of zygosity and identicality, which deepen the reader’s appreciation for the nuanced interplay of biology and environment in shaping twin dynamics.
Final Thoughts
In Parenting Twins, Dr Stewart has created a masterful blend of personal experience and scholarly expertise, offering readers a treasure trove of insights into twinship. Her work is a valuable guide for anyone navigating or studying the unique journey of twins.
