Speaking of Psychology
Speaking of Psychology
American Psychological Association
Understanding Tourette disorder and other tic disorders, with John Piacentini, PhD
35 minutes Posted Mar 18, 2026 at 7:30 am.
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Show notes
Tourette disorder and other tic disorders affect millions of people yet remain widely misunderstood. John Piacentini, PhD, director of the UCLA Child OCD, Anxiety, and Tic Disorders Clinic, explains the brain basis of Tourette disorder; talks about why tics are very common in young children; debunks common myths—such as the idea that Tourette disorder mainly involves uncontrollable swearing—and discusses how recent behavioral therapies are helping many patients manage tics.
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