Exploring Adults’ Experiences of Treatment for Tic & Tourette Syndrome

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    Exploring Adults' Experiences of Treatment for Tic and Tourette Syndrome

  • IRAS ID

    330111

  • Contact name

    Breda Cullen

  • Contact email

    breda.cullen@glasgow.ac.uk

  • Sponsor organisation

    University of Glasgow

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    1 years, 1 months, 0 days

  • Research summary

    Background
    Tourette’s syndrome (TS) and chronic tic disorder (TD) are characterised by the presence of chronic motor and phonic tics, with onset during the developmental period. A recent meta-analysis suggested that the prevalence is around 118 cases of TS per million adults (Levine et al., 2019). Recently, a small body of literature has emerged reporting the experience of TS as multidimensional, relating to self-identity threat, social withdrawal, self-stigma, social support, and pain management (Malli et al., 2019; Perkins et al., 2020; Taylor et al., 2022). Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics (CBIT) is a well-established treatment for children and adults (McGuire et al., 2014; Piacentini et al., 2010; Pringsheim et al., 2019). However, no study to our knowledge, focuses on experiences through the CBIT pathway.

    Aims
    The study aims to explore the process by which adult participants with TS/TD make sense of their experiences moving through a CBIT treatment pathway, developing an insight into their unique perceptions, understanding, and impact on their lives.

    Methods
    A qualitative approach will be employed in the form of interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). We will aim to recruit approximately eight individuals who have been medically diagnosed. Participants will need to have either completed the CBIT pathway or attended a minimum of three sessions. Semi-structured, one-to-one interviews will be conducted.

    Practical Applications
    This study will provide a greater understanding of CBIT with the aim of creating a positive impact on guidance for improving patient experiences and care provisions.

  • REC name

    London - Hampstead Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    24/PR/0388

  • Date of REC Opinion

    30 Apr 2024

  • REC opinion

    Further Information Favourable Opinion