According to the Gale Encyclopedia of Mental Health, Tourette Syndrome (TS) is "an inherited disorder of the nervous system that typically appears in childhood. The main features of TS are repeated movements and vocalizations called tics." Tourette syndrome usually onsets in early childhood and often improves after young adulthood. Those with Tourette syndrome can also develop other behavioral disorders such as:

• Attention Deficit//Hyperactivity Disorder
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
• Poor impulse control
• Sleep disorders

DSM-V (ICD-10-CM) Classification: 307.23 (F95.2)

• An estimated 200,000 Americans have the most severe form of Tourette syndrome
• 1 in 100 exhibit milder forms, like chronic motor or vocal tics
• Tourette syndrome is found in all populations and ethnic groups
• Tourette syndrome is 3-4 times more common in men than women

(Statistics from Gale Encyclopedia of Mental Health)