Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center are trying to understand how symptoms of Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders change during adolescence. Many adolescents with tics have difficulties with sensation, coordination, and social interactions, as well as worse quality of life compared to their peers. Treatment options for adolescents with tic disorders are limited, often focusing only on tics even though other symptoms may cause more problems. The purpose of this study is to learn more about sensory, motor, emotional, and social development in adolescents with tic disorders.
Who is eligible?
Researchers are recruiting two groups of participants:
- adolescents with Tourette syndrome or another chronic tic disorder (aged 11-17)
- adolescents without tics or other neurological problems (aged 11-17)
What is involved?
Adolescent participants will complete forms and answer interview questions about their medical history, mental health, social interactions, and quality of life. They will also participate in activities to test their sensation, coordination, and intelligence. Some participants will have an electroencephalogram (EEG), which involves wearing a soft cap that measures brain activity. Additionally, a caregiver for the adolescent participant will be asked to complete questionnaires.
The study involves four visits over the course of two years. The first visit can be done in person or remotely (online) and lasts about 2.5 hours. The second visit occurs within 30 days of the first, and lasts 3.5-5 hours. Visits three and four activities are identical to visits one and two but occur two years later. Participants will receive gift cards for participating in each study visit. Adolescent participants will receive…
- a $62.50 gift card for Visit 1
- a $125 gift card for Visit 2 if they are EEG eligible or a $90 gift card for Visit 2 if they are not EEG eligible
- a $62.50 gift card for Visit 3
- a $125 gift card for Visit 4 if they are EEG eligible or a $90 gift card for Visit 4 if they are not EEG eligible
Adult participants will receive a $50 gift card for participating in visit two and another $50 gift card for participating in visit four. To receive compensation, study participants must provide their social security number as required by federal regulations. This study has been approved by the Vanderbilt Institutional Review Board.
How do I sign up?
For more information, contact Michelle Eckland: (615) 875-7394, michelle.r.eckland.1@vumc.org.
