Functional Tic-Like Behaviours: Towards an Understanding of Young Peoples' Experiences

Posted on 6 November 2024 by Pippa McClounan

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New research study from the University of Hertfordshire

A trainee clinical psychologist at the University of Hertfordshire is researching the experiences of young people living with functional tics. These tics affect everyday life —whether at home, at school, or with friends—in ways that aren’t yet fully understood. This study will give young people a chance to share their story: the impact of the tics, what helps, and what doesn’t. Very little research on functional tics has focussed on young peoples’ actual experiences. By centring their voices, this study hopes to improve how doctors, teachers, and other adults understand and help young people, thereby raising awareness, reducing stigma, and enhancing support for functional tics.

Participants will meet with the researcher over Teams for a friendly online conversation (video not required). This will last between 45 minutes and an hour. The questions will explore the impact of functional tics on a young person’s daily life and emotional wellbeing, their self-perception, and sources of support. For young people between 12 and 15 years old, parental consent to participate is required.

Although there may be some overlap, the evolving understanding amongst clinicians is that functional tics have a sudden onset during adolescence (as opposed to childhood) and can appear as more complex than those typically seen in tic disorders / Tourette Syndrome. Please reach out to the researcher if you have any questions.

By taking part, young people can have their voices heard, helping to create meaningful change for others facing similar challenges! 

Scan the QR code above or email Natasha Oates at ns22ach@herts.ac.uk for more information

The researcher is also seeking parents/carers or young people with lived experience of functional tics to offer consultation on the study. Please reach out if you are interested.

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