Children with Tourette disorder: a follow-up study in adulthood

Abstract

This study intended to examine the impact of TD on adult psychosocial functioning. A 29-item self-report questionnaire was mailed to 180 former and current adult TD patients. Adult TD patients reported relatively good psychosocial adjustment although many continued to be dependent upon their families for living and financial support. For adults with TD, personal acceptance and medication use were the most important factors in coping with the disorder. The severity of vocal tics had a much greater influence on adult functioning than the severity of motor tics. Although TD continued to interfere with patient's lives in adulthood, the impact was relatively modest. Most patients were able to cope utilizing family and medical support. Clinicians need to be aware of the greater influence of vocal tics on adult functioning compared with motor tics.