Identical twins are very much same. They share common likes, they look quite similar, and they often found dress in similar cloths. However, there parents are aware of their differences but it is difficult for outsiders to differentiate identical twins. Identical twins have common genetic components that make them alike but they still have various unique characteristics. Despite of various similarities, identical twins also have multiple differences. This paper intends to discuss various similarities and differences of identical twins. Sometimes it is also observed that identical twins do not look alike and not share common characteristics. Individuals have their own interest and persuasions so as identical twins.
Identical twins also refer as monozygotic twins are formed by fusion of single egg and single sperm that later on split in two parts after conception. Identical twins carry DNA that is originated from single source. Thereby, genetic makeup of identical twins is similar. Identical twins reflect same characteristics that are derived from genes because of common gene (Smith, 2007). It is observed that in majority of the cases identical twins are of same gender but in some they do have different genders because of chromosomal defect. In case of dizygotic twins, siblings carry unique characteristics because they are formed from the fusion of two different eggs with two sperms but in during same ovulation cycle. Dizygotic twins are like normal siblings with no major similarities and major part of their genetic material formed from different amalgamation of genes from mother and father. Dizygotic twins developed by different placentas but in same setting and together. Such twins are neither alike nor share any common characteristics. Identical twins reflect the true meaning of twins which means together; they born and grow together. The birth of identical twins occur when single egg fertilized and convert into zygote and got separated by assembling in same placenta. Identical twins generally are not same inside the womb despite of same genes and material. Pregnancy with twins is difficult and complicated as compare to pregnancy with one child. It requires more attention and proper care during birth. Identical pregnancies are not common. Identical twins share same genetic material due to which their DNA information is same and they can not be identified through DNA test however their fingerprints are not same (Sigelman and Rider, 2012).
Identical twins carry same genes despite they are different because human development does not depend only on genes and hereditary characteristics. It is environment, in which they grow, impacts them in significant manner. Environment does not only impacts twins after their birth but also impacts them in womb. External environment can influence appearance of identical twins. For example identical twins share same placenta and it is possible that one of the twins has better connection with it whereas second not. Placenta provides nutritional requirement to the child, and child that has good connection with placenta will be healthier along with different physic. After their birth identical twins get impacted by external environment directly. Majority of the twins grow in same environment of home but still there are various circumstances such as school environment, friends, social group, and personal experiences that lead to differences in identical twins in terms of their personality, interest and lifestyle. Over a period of time identical twins tries to develop different qualities in order to create their independent identities. Parents also encourage their identical twins to develop their unique interest and further pursue their careers accordingly (Smith, 2007).
It is found that exposure to external environment also holds capability to change the behavior of genes in identical twins. According to a study conducted on 40 identical twins, genes change their properties when get exposed to external environment that includes pollutants, harmful chemical, certain foods and emotional experiences; these elements can bring life-altering modifications in individual’s DNA (Weiss, 2005). Environment also impact health of two similar people in different way for example their exposure to different deceases. Human cells carry huge number of genes which have their independent function but in a given time all genes do not get active they respond in a manner according to the situations.
Identical twins born with same genome marks but as they grow they become different from each other. They may carry same genes but their overall personality gets influenced by home environment, relationship twins share with their parents, family and friends. Education also plays a major role in deciding their future carrier. It has been found that there are various external factors that influence individual knowledge. These factors include learning, thoughts and overall psychology of individuals that ultimately impacts their interests, decisions and overall personality of such twins.
References
C. K. Sigelman and E. A. Rider. (2012). Life-Span Human Development. Belmont, CA: Cengage Learning.
Smith, M. A. (2007). Similarities and Differences Between Adolescent Monozygotic and Dyzygotic Twins. Ann Arbor, MI: ProQuest.
Weiss, R. (2005, July 5). The Washington Post. Retrieved November 10, 2013, from www.washingtonpost.com: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/04/AR2005070400845.html
