Tourette syndrome or TS is a genetic, neuro-chemical disorder characterized by involuntary muscle movement called tics. These tics can appear as simple repetitive movements such as blinking or exaggerated actions like gyrations on the floor.
Working with children with TS can be challenging especially when they sometimes present with accompanying conditions such as ADHD and OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder). Rage or aggressive behavior has been reported as a clinical problem in about 25-40% of TS patients. However, understanding the mechanics behind the syndrome can bring about successful management of the Tourette syndrome child in the classroom.
What is a Tic?
Integrating the TS child into a regular classroom works best when the children in the classroom understand what a tic is. Tics often begin as uncomfortable tingling urges or sensations to move a set of muscles. Studies suggest that repressing a tic is not a good idea because the urge becomes increasingly insistent until it becomes an outburst. Telling the children in class what a tic is and emphasizing how it is as natural as sneezing can teach them the importance of sympathy and understanding for those who are different. As well, this approach de-mystifies the syndrome. A tic is as natural to the TS child as a sneeze. Moreover, tics usually disappear in frequency and severity as the child gets older. They are barely noticeable after the age of 19.
This being said, it is worthy to note that many teachers claim that tics can be stopped in mid-track through diversion or distraction. Encouraging the Tourette syndrome child to concentrate on a set of math problems or reading a book can actually divert his attention away from the tic and calm down the involuntary muscle movements. One teacher claims that her TS child gets on the computer when she feels a tic coming one. Physically moving the mouse and concentrating on the screen are enough to stop the oncoming tic.
Parent Management Training
Parent management training has a powerful effect on the disruptive behavior of children with TS. This training can help with explosive outbursts at home.
In a 2006 study, one group of parents was taught 3 main strategies for behavior management:
a) consistency in their reactions to explosions and outbursts
b) clarity in explanation of consequences
c) choice of positive, rather than negative, consequences.
A second group of parents received no training whatsoever. Results tabulated at the end of the 10 week study showed that the trained parents reported 32% fewer disruptive incidents than the un-trained parents.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy
If parent management training is not feasible, families can resort to cognitive behavior therapy, a form of training that works on the assumption that habitual behavioral responses can be modified by changing thought patterns. Working with professionally trained therapists, the Tourette syndrome child can learn to identify inappropriate expressions of feelings. They also learn to substitute a different behavior or diversion (such as reading or painting) for these situations. With practice and patience, many TS children learn to break their old pattern of anger and aggression by resorting to more acceptable and positive responses.
The Tourette syndrome child can be a positive enhancement in a regular classroom. His or her interaction with other children is a good opportunity for developing sympathy, understanding and behavior management for all.
Author Resource:-
Bianca Tora is a writer interested in the relationship between lifestyle and the brain, specifically the area of emotional regulation and control. She has written a book on anger management for children. Visit her help-your-child-with-anger
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