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TikTok Tics: A Pandemic Within a Pandemic.
Caroline Olvera1, Glenn T Stebbins1, Christopher G Goetz1
1Department of Neurological Sciences Rush University Medical Center Chicago Illinois USA.
Movement Disorders Clinical Practice
|November 12, 2021
Summary
TikTok tics, distinct from Tourette syndrome, present with more arm movements and severe symptoms. This phenomenon may represent mass sociogenic illness, highlighting the need for clinicians to monitor social media trends.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Social Media Studies
- Psychiatry
Background:
- TikTok usage surged during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- A notable increase in content related to Tourette syndrome and tics was observed.
- Neurology clinics saw a rise in patients presenting with tics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the characteristics of "TikTok tics" with typical tic disorders.
- To analyze the most popular content creators on TikTok discussing tics.
Main Methods:
- Videos with keywords "tic," "Tourette," or "tourettes" were reviewed (March 2020-March 2021).
- Quantitative assessment of "TikTok tics" was performed.
- Descriptive analysis of content creators' video series was conducted.
Main Results:
- The study cohort had a mean age of 18.8 years, predominantly women.
- Arm movements were more frequent than facial movements, unlike typical tics.
- High frequency (29/min) and severity of tics, with frequent coprolalia and self-injurious behavior, were observed.
Conclusions:
- "TikTok tics" differ from typical Tourette syndrome but resemble functional tics.
- The phenomenon is believed to be an example of mass sociogenic illness.
- Clinicians must stay informed about social media content for effective patient management.
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