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Twin Study - IB Psychology Definition

Reviewed by: Claire Neeson

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What is a twin study?

In IB Psychology, a twin study is a research method used in research to explore the role of genetics and environment in shaping human behaviour and traits. By comparing the similarities and differences between monozygotic (identical) twins, who share 100% of their genetic material, and dizygotic (fraternal) twins, who share about 50%, researchers can assess the relative influence of heredity versus environmental factors.

This method provides valuable insights into the nature versus nurture debate, helping to determine the extent to which genetic factors contribute to psychological characteristics and conditions.

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Claire Neeson

Reviewer: Claire Neeson

Expertise: Psychology Content Creator

Claire has been teaching for 34 years, in the UK and overseas. She has taught GCSE, A-level and IB Psychology which has been a lot of fun and extremely exhausting! Claire is now a freelance Psychology teacher and content creator, producing textbooks, revision notes and (hopefully) exciting and interactive teaching materials for use in the classroom and for exam prep. Her passion (apart from Psychology of course) is roller skating and when she is not working (or watching 'Coronation Street') she can be found busting some impressive moves on her local roller rink.

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