Educators, you may find it interesting that there are twin registries throughout the world. A special edition of Twin Research and Human Genetics (December 2006) included articles about 52 registries. There were 36 listed in their 2002 publication.
The registries provide equitable access to resources of twins for scientific study in areas such as prenatal development. The participation of twins advances science with databases of twins available to international researchers. Researchers do not need to rely on recruitment for individual studies.
The registries generally focus on specific aspects of research. For example, the Australian Twin Registry (ATR) has existed since 1970. ATR serves as a facilitator managing the enrollment of more than 30,000 pairs of twins for medical and scientific research from many different disciplines. The Longitudinal Israeli Study of Twins (LIST) investigates children’s prosocial development from genetic and environmental perspectives. The Wisconsin Twin Panel focuses on the etiology (the study of causation) and development of emotions, temperament, childhood anxiety and impulsivity, the autism spectrum, etc. Many of the registries focus on development of older children and adults, particular diseases, and various aspects of health. The collected data contribute to findings regarding genetic and environmental influences.
While the collection of data improves scientific knowledge, it will eventually and likely expand thereby contributing to our practical guidance of twins during their early childhood years.
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