Tic severity linked with social media use for teens during pandemic
MINNEAPOLIS - An increase in social media use among teens and young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic may be linked to an increase in tic severity, according to a small, preliminary study released today, February 28, 2022, that will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology's 73rd Annual Meeting being held in person in Seattle, April 2 to 7, 2022 and virtually, April 24 to 26, 2022.
Tics are sudden, uncontrollable movements and sounds often prompted by an irresistible urge to produce them. They are the defining feature of chronic tic disorders, including Tourette syndrome, which is a neurodevelopmental disorder that begins in childhood.
"Given the known increases in social media use during the pandemic, as well as the parallel increase in tic disorders that we have seen in our clinic, we investigated whether there was any correlation between social media use and tic symptoms," said study author Jessica Frey, MD, at the University of Florida in Gainesville, Fla., and a member of the American Academy of Neurology.
The study involved 20 teens and young adults ages 11-21 who were experiencing tics. Participants completed a survey which examined time spent on social media, how often they experienced tics, the severity of those tics, and overall quality of life. Quality of life refers to an individual's view of their physical and mental health.
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.