Tourette syndrome is a disorder of the nervous system that involves involuntary vocal and motor tics—sudden, rapid, repeated sounds and movements. Tourette is usually first identified in children between the ages of 7 and 10, and boys are four times as likely as girls to have the disorder. The disorder can be mild or severe, with about 10 percent of Americans having a mild form, according to the National Institutes of Health. Tourette Syndrome explores the signs, symptoms, causes, and treatment of this bizarre and misunderstood neurological condition, which is often referred to as a "tic" disorder. Following an overview of Tourette syndrome, the book details its history, symptoms, biological causes and triggers of tic episodes, epidemiology, and current forms of treatment. Ways in which parents and children cope with Tourette syndrome and its social stigma, as well as psychiatric conditions that are commonly associated with it, are also discussed.

Chapters include:

• Overview of Tourette Syndrome
• Symptoms of Tourette Syndrome
• Prevalence of Tourette Syndrome
• Causes of Tourette Syndrome
• Medical Treatments for Tourette Syndrome
• Behavioral Therapies for Tourette Syndrome
• Psychiatric Disorders Associated with Tourette Syndrome
• Coping Strategies for Tourette Syndrome Patients and Their Families