Sean J. M. Newman

Abstract

Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurological disorder characterized by
involuntary motor movements and/or vocal outbursts commonly known as “tics.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “1 of every 360
(0.3%) children 6-17 years of age in the United States have been diagnosed with TS
based on parent report; this is about 138,000 children” (“Tourette Syndrome [TS]”,
2016). Other disorders such as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Attention
Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often accompany Tourette Syndrome. In fact,
CDC research has shown that 86% of Tourette patients have also been diagnosed with
at least one additional mental, behavioral, or developmental condition. Boys are also
three to five times more likely than girls to be diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome
(CDC, 2016). For this study, interviews were conducted with 13 musicians of all ages
who suffer from Tourette Syndrome. These interviewees discussed the severity and
frequency of their tics throughout the interviews. They were asked about living with
the disorder, if they had any other diagnoses, and if they were in any therapies for their
condition(s). They were also questioned as to what role, if any, music played in the
various aspects of their lives, such as work, school, and/or social interaction.… (más)