The documentary "Three Identical Strangers" reveals a fascinating yet unsettling story about three triplets who were separated at birth. This eye-opening narrative touches on themes of identity, nature versus nurture, and the ethics of scientific experimentation. In this article, we will delve into the answers to the worksheet typically used in educational settings to help students reflect on and understand the documentary more deeply.
Overview of the Documentary ๐ฅ
"Three Identical Strangers" chronicles the lives of Robert Shafran, Edward Galland, and David Kellman, who unknowingly met each other at the age of 19 after being separated at birth. The heartwarming reunion turns into a complex tale as they discover the circumstances of their separation, which were orchestrated by a controversial scientific study aiming to explore the effects of nature versus nurture.
Key Themes
Before exploring the worksheet answers, it's crucial to outline the primary themes addressed in the documentary:
- Nature vs. Nurture: The triplets' lives raise questions about genetic predispositions and the impact of environment on personal development.
- Identity and Self-discovery: The journey of the triplets showcases their struggle to understand their identities, both as individuals and as identical siblings.
- Ethics in Research: The documentary critiques the ethical implications of the adoption study that separated them, emphasizing the need for ethical considerations in scientific experimentation.
Worksheet Questions and Answers ๐
The accompanying worksheet for "Three Identical Strangers" usually contains questions designed to provoke thought and discussion about these themes. Below are some common questions along with explanations of their answers.
Question 1: What circumstances led to the separation of the triplets?
Answer:
The triplets were separated shortly after birth by a Jewish adoption agency that wanted to study the psychological effects of being raised in different environments. They were placed in different families that were socioeconomically diverse, which ultimately played a role in their development.
Important Note: This deliberate separation raises significant ethical concerns regarding informed consent and the welfare of the children involved.
Question 2: How did the triplets react upon meeting each other?
Answer:
Their initial reaction was one of joy and disbelief. The story reflects an extraordinary moment of serendipity where they not only looked alike but also shared similar mannerisms and interests. This discovery led to media attention and a whirlwind of fame.
Question 3: What psychological impacts did the reunion have on the triplets?
Answer:
While their reunion was initially joyful, it quickly became complicated. The triplets experienced a mixture of happiness, confusion, and a sense of loss regarding their individual identities. The pressure of being in the public eye and the psychological ramifications of their early separation started to take a toll on them.
Question 4: Discuss the ethical considerations presented in the documentary.
Answer:
The documentary raises essential questions about the morality of the study that separated the triplets. It highlights the lack of ethical standards in place at the time, particularly concerning informed consent, and whether it is ever justifiable to experiment on human beings in this manner.
Important Note: Viewers are encouraged to consider how ethical practices in research have evolved since the time of this study.
Question 5: How does the film portray the concept of identity?
Answer:
"Three Identical Strangers" presents identity as a multifaceted concept influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. The triplets' similar traits emphasize the nature aspect, while their differing life experiences illustrate the impact of nurture. The film challenges viewers to contemplate the complexities of identity formation.
Reflection on the Documentary โจ
The documentary is not just a tale of three brothers but a profound exploration of what it means to be human. As students engage with the worksheet answers, they are encouraged to reflect on their perspectives regarding identity, family, and the ethical bounds of scientific research.
Classroom Discussions
In a classroom setting, these questions can lead to broader discussions about the implications of the findings related to the triplets. Topics such as psychological development, genetic research, and ethical standards in psychology can be explored in more depth.
<table> <tr> <th>Key Themes</th> <th>Questions to Consider</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Nature vs. Nurture</td> <td>How do genetic and environmental factors shape who we are?</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Identity</td> <td>What influences your sense of self?</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Ethics in Research</td> <td>What should be the ethical guidelines for conducting research on humans?</td> </tr> </table>
Conclusion
"Three Identical Strangers" is not merely a documentary; it is a poignant narrative that touches upon profound issues of identity, ethics, and the intricate workings of the human mind. By analyzing the worksheet answers, viewers gain deeper insights into the lives of Robert, Edward, and David and are encouraged to reflect on the moral and psychological dimensions of their extraordinary story. The documentary remains a powerful reminder of the importance of ethical considerations in research and the complexities of human identity.