This study looks at the neurodevelopment of twins. Researchers asked caregivers of twins aged three to 18 years, who were born preterm, to complete an online survey about their children's neurodevelopment. The study included 698 children, which was 349 pairs of twins.
Researchers explored whether the traits caregivers noticed differed between monozygotic (identical) and dizygotic (non-identical) twins and between first-born and second-born twins. The findings highlighted traits associated with autism, ADHD and anxiety, but the study did not diagnose children with these conditions.
The study found identical twins were more likely to show traits of inattention and social anxiety than non-identical twins.
Researchers also found second-born twins were more likely to show:
- hyperactivity and impulsivity
- autistic traits
- differences in social awareness
- differences in social cognition
- differences in social communication
- restricted and repetitive behaviour
- anxiety
- generalised anxiety
- social anxiety
These findings suggest zygosity and birth order may be important factors. More research is needed to understand long-term development and diagnosis.
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