 The Wisconsin Twin Project (WTP) is a population-based
longitudinal study of all twins born in Wisconsin.
The research focus is the genetic and environmental
influences on typical and atypical development of
twins in the family context. Main interests include
challenges and risk factors as well as adaptive processes
and competence factors that contribute to social-emotional
development. A range of research methods are used,
including birth records, DNA samples, cognitive testing,
observer ratings, dermatoglyphic anomalies, questionnaires,
child self-report, structured interviews with caregivers,
home-based behavioral batteries, and biological measures
of basal and reactive cortisol. Twin methodology provides
us with sophisticated analysis of genetic, environmental,
and interaction effects on child development and related
risk and protective factors.
Funding for the twin project is provided by grants
from the National Institute of Mental Health and the
University of Wisconsin-Madison. The Wisconsin Twin
Project is currently located in the Waisman Center
for Developmental Disabilities and Human Development
and the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
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