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Psychosocial Study of a Surviving Conjoined Twin

Our Lady’s Hospital for Sick Children, Dublin

Psychosocial functioning of an eight-year-old surviving conjoined twin is described. The twins were separated at three and a half years of age, one twin dying in the early post-operative period. Following an initial period of grief, the surviving twin has demonstrated remarkable resilience, coping with repeated hospitalizations, investigation and procedures without apparent psychological damage. She is currently attending mainstream school where, despite some physical disability, academically and socially she is on a par with other children in her class. It is likely that many factors have contributed to the normality of this twin’s psychosocial development to date, including family stability, committed effective parents who have a sustaining religious belief system, a supportive community and a personality style which is determined, positive and forward looking.

Key Words: conjoined • psychosocial • resilience • twins

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