[Phenomenology of tics: psychological and psychiatric approach]

The association of involuntary motor disturbances and psychic symptoms is a salient feature of Gilles de la Tourette's disease. The frequency of the association is supported by recent epidemiological data. However, a clear distinction must be made between psychic symptoms dependent of the pathological process and psychological reactions to the disease. The link between motor and psychic symptoms raises a crucial and yet controversial question. Etiology, and particularly the role of psychological and social factors, is discussed. But mechanisms must be studied independently. Is there a causal relationship between motor and psychic symptoms? Is there a common neuro-chemical alteration? There is no evidence for clear conclusion but this questions must be clarified.