Spotlight on Shanique Shakespeare

Posted on 6 July 2022 by Pippa McClounan

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Name

Shanique Shakespeare

Position

MSc Student in research in Clinical Psychology

Where are you doing your research?

University of Hertfordshire

What is the topic of your research?

This research will be gaining further insight into how anxiety is presented in children with and without Tic disorder. The current aim of this study is to explore gender differences in anxiety, as well as understanding whether repetitive and sensory behaviours influence the anxiety experienced. We are asking you to answer an online survey which explores your child’s anxiety, tic severity, repetitive behaviours, and sensory behaviours.

How will this help people with TS?

It is hoped that this study will provide insight into how anxiety is presented in children with a Tic disorder diagnosis, as well as providing more insight into the relationship between anxiety severity and tic severity. These insights may help shine a light on the importance of screening for anxiety during initial diagnosis of a tic disorder.

What stage of the research are you at?

The research project is in the early stages of recruitment. We are asking parents of children with a Tourette Syndrome or a Tic disorder diagnosis (parents over 18 years and children between 6-17 years) to take part in an online survey which will take approximately 25-minutes to complete.

What will happen next in the study?

We anticipate publishing the findings in an academic journal and to share our results with you online and at conferences.

Why do you want to be a researcher?

Research can deepen our understanding of how anxiety presents itself in children with Tic disorders. Using this information, we will be able to provide research-informed guidance and support. This will help inform decisions and ultimately improve the lives of individuals with Tic disorders and their families. We are grateful to everyone who participates in our research as without them none of this would be possible.

You can find out more and take part in the study here

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