Tic Disorders

Tics are repeated, sudden, rapid and recurrent motor movements or vocalizations. Many tics are mild, but in some cases they become so severe that they interfere with your child’s life and require clinical attention. The most common tic disorder is Transient Tic Disorder in which tics typically go away on their own. Tourrette’s Disorder involves chronic motor and vocal tics and is often associated with problems with attention and impulsivity, as well as compulsive behaviors. Tics typically develop in early childhood and are 3-4 times more likely to occur in males. Tics are often worsened during times of stress, anxiety and fatigue. They can be successfully treated with medication and behavior therapy, and most children outgrow their tics during adolescence.