Fraternal and Identical Twins – What is the Difference?

There is a huge misconception that people have about having twins. They all think it is the same as caring for a single child, only that you have another one to take care of such that it feels more like raising two children at one time. However, twins have special needs that parents must fulfill and the ability to provide for that will start off by learning about the different types of twins and their unique qualities.

To get more details on the different types of twins, you can read more details below.

Introduction to Fraternal and Identical Twins

You have to understand that twins are two separate individuals instead of a single unit. Hence, it is not like raising two of the same single child since each one have their own unique personalities and needs to them. Parents must therefore juggle caring for two individuals at once and this is not an easy task.

This is made further complicated by the differences with fraternal and identical twins. They might showcase similar physical looks, but there are other factors that shape their attitudes and interests. This explains why interaction of twins is difficult to decipher. At one time, they can have the closest bond, in another they could be each other's worst rivals.

There is an equal amount of similarities and differences with both set of twins (fraternal or identical). For starters though, it is best to get started on identifying what these unique qualities are.

Qualities of Identical Twins

There are a few basic qualities that you can use to identify whether a set of twins are identical. First, they are always of the same sex. Second, they have a similar appearance in terms of physical looks. Third, they were developed inside the womb within a single placenta. And finally, they each have similar blood types.

Since identical twins develop from the same egg, they are expected to have a stronger emotional bond than fraternal twins do. In fact, identical twins have their unique twin connection and language that only they can comprehend.

Qualities of Fraternal Twins

The next, and more common, type of twins would be fraternal twins. These twins can be of the same sex or different (meaning, a boy and a girl). Their appearance could be similar with one another but not exactly identical. They develop from 2 placenta, 2 amniotic sacs, and 2 chorion bags. They could have the same blood type, but this is not always the case with all fraternal twins.

Since they develop from 2 different eggs, the emotional bond between these twins are not that strong. However, they will have a wide range of similarities and are easier to establish their own individuality that would set them apart from the other twin.

Challenges of Raising Twins

The complexity of the nature of twins and how they interact with one another as they grow up all contribute to the challenges that parents face while raising twins. Being able to identify the differences between fraternal and identical twins are is a good start. You can therefore foster the need to help each twin interact with the other, while also allowing them to explore their own individual personality and be molded by nature.