THE SOCIAL IMPACT OF A SUMMER CAMP FOR YOUTH WITH TOURETTE SYNDROME

Like many young people, youth with Tourette Syndrome (TS) experience a number of social challenges that impact their quality of life. As a genetically inherited neurological disorder, youth with TS experience common symptoms such as involuntary verbal and motor tics. Research studies examining the impact of these tics have consistently reported that these youth are commonly misjudged, bullied and teased, and are likely to experience depression and anxiety as result of their symptoms (Cutler et. al., 2009; Zinner et. al, 2012; Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2007). To date, there are limited resources available suggesting where youth with TS can go for help and how they can potentially work through and overcome their social challenges.