Tourette syndrome and educational problems in Canada

A comprehensive survey of known Tourette Syndrome patients was conducted on a national basis in Canada. In addition to in-depth historical background information, symptomatology, geography and demographics, data were collected regarding educational issues. Approximately 70% of the sample were receiving some sort of education. The most commonly cited educational problems were with concentration, paying attention, and performance on time-limited tasks. In almost all cases the school had been informed of the Tourette Syndrome diagnosis, but in 78% of respondents the school personnel were rated as not at all knowledgeable regarding TS. Despite problems, 66% of TS patients reported being generally satisfied with the education being received. Patients made recommendations regarding how educational experiences could be made better. Of these suggestions, educating educators was the most frequent recommendation.