2025 Research Studies

Summaries of research projects supported by Tourettes Action.

Investigating the experiences of phonic tics and involuntary vocalisation behaviour in adults with tic disorders

Researchers in Psychology from the University of Hertfordshire are conducting a study to better understand how phonic (vocal) tics and other speech-related difficulties impact everyday communication, social interactions, and overall well-being in adults with tic disorders. While awareness of tic disorders is growing, research has largely focused on children and motor tics—leaving a significant gap in understanding the experiences of adults with phonic tics. This study aims to fill that gap by giving voice to those directly affected.

Results of the study will follow soon

 

Stimulant Medication for ADHD and Tics - Understanding Response versus Non-stimulants (SATURN)

A randomised trial of the clinical and cost-effectiveness of methylphenidate versus guanfacine for ADHD in children and young people with a co-existing tic disorder. The SATURN research team is conducting a study to identify the best medication for children and young people aged 6-16 years old who have both ADHD and tics.

Results of the study will follow soon

 

Investigating interhemispheric M1-M1 interactions in Tourette syndrome

The aim of this study is to investigate how the motor regions (M1) in both sides of the brain function and interact with each other. The study uses transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) which is a safe and non-invasive stimulation technique. We are recruiting individuals with Tourette syndrome or other tic disorders. 

Results of the study will follow soon

 

Investigating combined tACS-MNS on tic frequency and the urge-to-tic in Tourette syndrome

The aim of this study is to assess the impact of combining two safe non-invasive forms of brain stimulation on tic frequency and the urge-to-tic in Tourette Syndrome. We are recruiting individuals with Tourette syndrome or other tic disorders. 

Results of the study will follow soon

 

Research study investigating coping strategies, stress and sleep

This research explores the potential of coping strategies to manage the symptoms of TS, particularly focusing on how certain strategies can influence the severity of tics and associated difficulties, including stress and sleep. These strategies are divided into three categories: primary control (direct actions on the stressor or emotions), secondary control (internal techniques like cognitive reappraisal), and disengagement (distancing oneself from the stressor). Primary and secondary control coping have been shown to improve mental health outcomes in various clinical populations. These coping methods help manage both stress and sleep issues, which could be especially beneficial for young people with TS.

Results of the study will follow soon

 

Study on the developmental characterisation of explosive outbursts in young people with Tourette syndrome

This project will provide a better understanding of the individual factors that may contribute to the occurrence of explosive outbursts, which could lead to new avenues of intervention to reduce the frequency and intensity of such outbursts. Additionally, by getting an in-depth understanding of the different dimensions of family functioning possibly affected by these outbursts, we may be able to identify new components for interventions to manage explosive outbursts, equip parents to deal with parental stress, and build on available resources and support programs.

Results of the study will follow soon

 

VIBES study (Vibrotactile Intervention for behavioural and emotional symptoms of tics and Tourette syndrome)

People with TS or Chronic Tic Disorder often have tics — movements or sounds they can’t control. Researchers at the University of Nottingham are testing a small device that gently vibrates on the wrist, like a smartwatch. They want to see if it helps reduce tics or the feelings that come before them.

Results of the study will follow soon

 

Young people needed to help design a new research study

Researchers wanted to speak to 18–21-year-olds with autism and tics to help design a new reearch study into whether the premonitory urge for tics differs in those who also have autism.

Results of the study will follow soon

 

The relationship between parental stress, stigma, resilience, and social support

This research project aimed to examine the relationship between parental stress, stigma, resilience, and social support among parents caring for young people with Tourette syndrome (TS). The study hopes to highlight the influences and predictors of parental stress within this population.

Results of the study will follow soon

 

Are there benefits to using physiotherapeutic methods to decrease tic severity and pain levels for individuals with Tourette syndrome?

Around 47.5% of adults with Tourette syndrome suffer from pain due to tics. There is currently not much research available to suggest the use of physiotherapeutic treatment methods to offer relief from tic pain and/or a reduction in the severity of tics, however, there is self-reported evidence online and within the Tourette’s community.

If evidence states that pain and tic severity could be reduced through physiotherapy, it will help people with Tourette's manage their symptoms by raising awareness of the potential benefits of physiotherapy, and physiotherapeutic treatment methods. Symptom management in Tourette’s could help improve the quality of life for individuals with Tourette's.

Results of the study will follow soon

 

From Trauma to Tics: A qualitative exploration of later-onset Tourette syndrome in adults

This study aimed to explore the experiences of adults with later-onset TS, specifically examining whether stressful or traumatic life events may have played a role in the onset of tics. The research seeks to provide insight into how environmental stressors influence TS and improve awareness of later-onset cases. 

Results of the study will follow soon