Book SummaryIdentical Strangers, by Elyse Schein and Paula Bernstein

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of Identical Strangers

The ongoing discourse on the moral implications of studies involving twins and the persistent contention between genetic and environmental factors.

This section explores the ethical quandaries associated with the secretive studies conducted on twins reared separately by the Child Development Center of Louise Wise Services, which ties into the broader controversy of twins being split up at birth, a practice supported by psychologist Viola Bernard.

Psychologist Viola Bernard supported the controversial method of separating twins with the intention of nurturing their individual identities.

Dr. Viola Bernard, a distinguished child psychologist and consultant to Louise Wise Services, believed that separating twins at birth would enhance their individual development. She argued that twins raised together often form a mutual reliance which can impede their ability to cultivate separate individual identities. Bernard theorized that by raising the twins apart, they could grow individually without vying for their parents' attention.

Even though other adoption agencies did not provide assistance, the Child Development Center at Louise Wise Services collaborated with Bernard to conduct a private study on twins who were raised separately.

During that period, the Child Development Center (CDC) was under the guidance of Dr. Peter Neubauer, who saw an opportunity to explore the enduring debate concerning the impact of heredity and upbringing, even though Bernard's theory was subject to controversy. The investigators firmly believed that studying twins with identical genetics but raised separately would provide unique insights into the roles of genetics and environment in shaping a person's character. Under Bernard's guidance, Louise Wise agreed to arrange the adoption of twins and triplets into separate families without providing them with complete information about their situation. The scientists conducted regular interviews and assessments during home visits to observe the siblings' growth, who were nurtured in separate environments.

Dr. Peter Neubauer conducted a study to discern the individual influences of heredity and upbringing on human development.

Dr. Peter Neubauer and his team at the CDC believed that studying separated identical twins presented a unique opportunity to unravel the complex interplay of genetics and environment in shaping individuals. They hypothesized that by comparing the lives of twins, raised in separate homes with different parents and siblings, they could disentangle the contributions of innate predispositions and lived experiences.

The adoptive parents were kept in the dark about their children being subjects in a twin study to...

Identical Strangers Summary The deep psychological effects they experienced originated from being separated at birth.

The story explores the profound sense of incompleteness and yearning experienced by Paula and Elyse, sentiments that persisted despite their unawareness of their origins. The authors explore the possibility that their early separation could have contributed to the enduring feelings of loneliness and periods of depression they encountered throughout their lives.

From a young age, Paula and Elyse felt an unexplained longing and a profound sense of something missing for the sibling they were unaware they possessed.

Both Paula and Elyse experienced a continual feeling of being incomplete and a mysterious emptiness in their lives, all the while oblivious to the fact that the other existed. Paula placed great importance on her friendships with women, which provided the emotional fulfillment that her life otherwise lacked. Elyse often felt a deep bond with strangers, as if she were on a quest to find a missing piece of her own identity. Upon reuniting, they experienced intense emotions that highlight the deep bond shared by twins who look exactly alike, as well as the possible psychological impacts stemming from separation during their early developmental period. The authors...

Identical Strangers Summary The authors embarked on a journey that resulted in the discovery of their biological families' identities.

Elyse and Paula meticulously searched for information about their biological relatives. The book details their methodical quest, using both official channels and personal connections to uncover details about their birth mothers.

Paula and Elyse were driven by a profound urge to explore the secrets of their lineage and family background upon learning of their twinship.

They were profoundly captivated by the history of their biological relatives and the circumstances that led to their separation upon discovering they were twins. Motivated by an intense need for self-discovery and knowledge, Paula and Elyse embarked on a journey to unearth details about Leda, their biological mother. As journalists, they skillfully used their research abilities to meticulously gather information about their biological family, utilizing public records and tapping into their connections within the adoption community to piece together the details.

They conducted a thorough search of public records and worked closely with the adoption agency to reveal the identity and history of their birth mother.

Elyse and Paula contacted Spence-Chapin, the agency formerly known as Louise Wise Services,...

Identical Strangers Summary The emotional consequences arose from their separation and subsequent reunion.

The story explores the impact of Paula and Elyse's early separation from their biological mother and from one another on their personal evolution and maturation. The book explores the intricate feelings they encountered when they reunited as adults, encompassing a feeling of bereavement and the development of a deep bond.

The early separation from their twin and birth mother profoundly shaped Paula and Elyse's sense of self and their understanding of their place in the world.

The authors acknowledge the profound emotional impact that originated from being separated at birth, which affected not only their connection with their biological mother but also their bond with each other. Paula exerted her utmost to distinguish herself as a child, motivated by the dread of facing further rejection. Elyse grappled with profound feelings of abandonment, which intensified after her adoptive mother passed away prematurely. The authors suggest that the difficulties they consistently face in establishing lasting relationships and their continuous struggles with depression may be associated with their early separation.

They both grappled with feelings of abandonment, alongside a...

Identical Strangers Summary The understanding and view of what constitutes a family.

The section explores how Elyse's and Paula's views on family bonds evolved after they were reunited. The excerpt highlights her initial hesitation to acknowledge the importance of genetic ties and her eventual acceptance of a broader definition of family.

Paula initially regarded the family that adopted her as her true relatives, setting aside any thoughts of searching for her biological ties.

Throughout her existence, Paula maintained a firm belief that the family who had raised her represented her genuine relatives, downplaying the significance of biological ties. She argued that the connections within a family are created through love and shared experiences, and she rejected the notion of searching for her biological relatives. Her perspective, shaped by the care of adoptive parents, faced a challenge upon encountering her twin, which led to a deeper appreciation of how genetics can profoundly influence an individual's identity.

Meeting Elyse prompted her to reevaluate the importance of family connections.

When Paula met Elyse, she directly encountered the unmistakable impact of genetics and the enduring bond unique to twins. Paula's view changed as she came to...