Tourette syndrome

Tourette syndrome is a complex neuro-developmental condition that is not emotional in its origin.

It is a condition in which the person loses control over the movements and sounds they make. These involuntary movements or sounds (tics) may come and go and vary in severity.

Tourette syndrome is commonly associated with conditions such as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD and motor skills/co-ordination difficulties.

Characteristics

  • Overwhelming compulsion to produce tics (frequently facial)
  • Uncontrollable urge to make noises or say words
  • Involuntary use of obscenities, either vocal or gestural – copulalia (this is the most well-known feature but is not very common)

Some associated difficulties

  • Specific problems organising work
  • Memory impairment
  • Difficulty copying information (eg. from the blackboard)
  • Specific problems with maths

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