Keywords
Tourette Syndrome, Mental Health, Youth Mental Health, Disability Awareness, Early Intervention, Peer Education
Abstract
Tourette Syndrome affects 1 in 100 U.S. children but remains widely misunderstood due to stigma, delayed diagnosis, and media misrepresentation. This neurological disorder is characterized by involuntary tics and often co-occurs with ADHD, anxiety, and sleep disorders. Children with Tourette Syndrome face disproportionate challenges in social, academic, and emotional settings—despite having average or above-average intelligence. One-third engage in self-harm, and suicide rates are four times the national average. Peer-education programs like the Tourette Association of America’s Youth Ambassador initiative have shown promise in reducing stigma, but unequal access and weak institutional support limit their impact. This paper calls for early intervention, public awareness, and nonprofit innovation to improve outcomes and promote belonging for youth with TS.
Recommended Citation
Reall, Matt
(2025)
"A Call for Change: Supporting Children with Tourette Syndrome,"
Journal of Nonprofit Innovation: Vol. 5:
Iss.
2, Article 9.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/joni/vol5/iss2/9
Included in
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