TWINS

If language is genetically transmitted, then its development is likely to be markedly similar in twins who are ‘identical’ or monozygotic (products of a single egg). There is considerable evidence that this is the case. However, it is not easy to factor out other variables such as shared intelligence and the fact that the twins share the same home environment. More evidence is needed on language acquisition in the rare cases of twins who have been separated early in life.

Another area of study compares language acquisition by twins with that by singletons. There is strong evidence that early language development in twins is often delayed. In only about 35 per cent of identical twins and 40 per cent of fraternal twins does the onset of language occur at the normal time; and the language of twins tends to fall behind that of their peers during the third year of life.

The most convincing explanations relate to the circumstances of being a twin. It may be that twins feel less need to communicate with others because of their close mutual bonding. Some researchers report evidence of a secret language between twins (cryptophasia) consisting of sounds and words which are unintelligible to others. In the early stages, this supplants the need for socialised language. Or it may be that carers find it harder to divide their attention and time between two infants. Observation suggests that there is less verbal interaction per individual twin than a single child receives. Furthermore, carers are less able to assist meaning construction by monitoring and directing the child’s attention when there are two children involved.

It is not clear whether the language acquired by twins is different as well as delayed. However, it may be that, because of their situation, twins develop faster than other children in their use of certain discourse skills such as the ability to take turns and the ability to monitor third-party exchanges.

Further reading: Mogford (1993a)

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Motivation for target and source

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