Dispelling Myths About Tourette Syndrome

by Dr. Katrina Hermetet, Vice President of Medical & Scientific Affairs, Tourette Association of America

Media portrayals often perpetuate misconceptions about Tourette Syndrome (TS) by focusing entirely on extremely severe tics, aggressive swearing, or emotional outbursts. In reality, TS is a complex neurological condition with symptoms that vary widely among individuals and vary over time. Misunderstandings have hindered awareness and contributed to stigma, making it essential to correct these inaccuracies and highlight the facts. 

The Tourette Association of America has outlined some of the most common myths about TS to help improve understanding and advocacy. 

Myth #1: Everyone with Tourette Syndrome blurts out obscenities. 

Fact:

Coprolalia, the involuntary use of obscene language, affects approximately 10% of individuals with Tourette Syndrome (TS), though it is frequently exaggerated in media portrayals. Research indicates that coprolalia may be underreported due to stigma, suggesting that it could actually affect a higher percentage of individuals with TS than the commonly cited 10%. 

Myth #2: Everyone with tics has Tourette Syndrome. 

Fact:

Tics exist on a spectrum, ranging from transient tics in childhood to persistent and complex tics. To be diagnosed with TS, a person must have both motor and vocal tics that occur for over a year. Other tic disorders, such as chronic motor or vocal tic disorder, involve only one type of tic.  

Myth #3: People with TS can control their tics if they try hard enough. 

Fact:

Tics are involuntary, arising from altered brain function. While some individuals may temporarily suppress tics, this often requires significant effort and is not sustainable. Behavioral therapies can help manage tics but will not “cure” them. 

Myth #4: If tics aren’t visible, the person must be better. 

Fact:

Tics can be masked, suppressed or redirected, especially in social situations, but this does not indicate improvement or recovery. Suppression often leads to increased mental strain and fatigue. 

Myth #5: Tourette Syndrome is caused by stress or poor parenting. 

Fact:

The exact cause of TS is unknown, but research indicates a strong genetic component, along with potential environmental and neurological factors. Stress can exacerbate symptoms but is not a root cause. 

Myth #6: Tics only occur in children. 

Fact:

While tics are more common in childhood and may improve with age, some individuals experience tics throughout their lives. TS is a lifelong condition. For a TS diagnosis, symptoms must begin before age 18. 

Myth #7: Tourette Syndrome is a mental illness. 

Fact:

TS is a neurological condition, not a psychiatric one. However, it often co-occurs with conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or anxiety. 

Myth #8: People with TS are less intelligent. 

Fact:

TS does not affect intelligence. Some individuals may face challenges due to co-occurring conditions like learning disabilities or ADHD, but with proper support, they can excel academically and socially. 

Myth #9: People with TS can’t lead successful lives. 

Fact:

Many individuals with TS thrive in their personal and professional lives. With the right support, people with TS have achieved success in fields like medicine, sports, the arts, and beyond. 

Myth #10: TS is more common in certain ethnic groups. 

Fact:

TS occurs across all racial and ethnic groups at similar rates.