Interoception and attentional control in TS/CTD - V1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring the impact of interoception and attentional control on tics, anxiety and quality of life in young people with Tourette Syndrome/Chronic Tic Disorders (TS/CTD)
IRAS ID
260451
Contact name
Sally Robinson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 2 months, 1 days
Research summary
There is growing interest in how perceptions of internal body sensations (e.g. heartbeat), called interoception, may contribute to psychiatric symptoms (e.g. anxiety, mood). In children and adults with Tourette Syndrome/Chronic Tic Disorders (TS/CTD) lower ability to accurately perceive internal body sensations has been shown to be related to increased tics and anxiety and lower quality of life. Research also suggests that reduced attention to internal body sensations may be helpful to manage tics. This suggests that higher awareness of body sensations in TS/CTD may influence tic expression, whilst the ability to control attention and shift it away from internal sensations may be important for tic management. These aspects of interoception have not yet been explored in TS/CTD.
This study therefore plans to explore interoception and attentional control in young people with TS/CTD compared to controls, aged 11-17 years. The study will use experimental tasks and questionnaires. Exploring the role of interoception in TS/CTD is of importance to understand the factors that contribute to tics and comorbid psychiatric symptoms. A better understanding of these factors will help to inform the development of psychological treatments for young people with TS/CTD.
REC name
London - Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/LO/1164
Date of REC Opinion
9 Oct 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion