The journey to a functional tics diagnosis and experiences of post diagnostic support: perspectives from adolescents and their parents
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background In 2020, clinical services noted an unexpected increase in functional tic disorders, which coincided with the timing of the COVID-19 pandemic. Evidence suggests that functional symptoms and tic disorders have a significant impact on family functioning and child and parent quality of life. However, little is currently known of the impact of a functional tics (FTs) diagnosis in adolescence, both on the young person and their family.Methods The current qualitative study explores adolescent and parent experiences of a FTs diagnosis, associated symptoms, and post-diagnostic support. Seven females aged between 12 and 18 years with a formal FTs diagnosis and eight parents were recruited through Tourette’s Action, a UK-based charity concerning Tourette syndrome. Participants took part in individual semi-structured interviews via Microsoft Teams. Transcribed interviews were analysed using a reflexive Thematic Analysis.Results Themes generated from adolescent and parent interviews included (1) blamed, disbelieved, discounted, (2) fighting for help, (3) professional and community support and (4) changes in identity and relationships.Conclusions The findings emphasise the importance of psychoeducation encompassing FTs and young peoples’ holistic needs, support to develop personalised strategies for management of FTs and interacting additional needs, alongside an increased public and professional understanding of FTs to aid stigma reduction.
Source: Disability and Rehabilitation
Authors: Olivia Burn, Morvwen Duncan, Eve McAllister, Tara Murphy, Alana Loewenberger
Institutions: University College London, Great Ormond Street Hospital
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4408504491