Real-life-type problem solving in Tourette syndrome.
OBJECTIVE
The main objective of the study was to examine social problem solving in real-life-type situations in Tourette syndrome (TS).


BACKGROUND
Studies of cognitive functioning in TS have usually focused on nonsocial, abstract tasks, with mixed findings as to whether there is evidence of impairment in executive functions in those without comorbid disorders. The current study focuses primarily on social functioning, using a problem-solving task known to be sensitive to frontal lobe lesions.


METHODS
TS participants without comorbid diagnoses were compared with matched healthy control participants on a problem-solving task, using a range of interpersonal problem scenarios presented on video. A set of more abstract executive tests was also included.


RESULTS
Participants with TS were found to perform below a matched control group on the problem-solving task both in generating a range of potential problem solutions, and in selecting appropriate final solutions. They also performed more poorly on aspects of executive function.


CONCLUSIONS
This study provides evidence of difficulties in both social and nonsocial aspects of functioning in TS. The implications of the findings for our understanding of TS and problem solving are discussed.
Channon
Shelley
S
Department of Psychology, University College London, School of Medicine, London, UK. S.Channon@ucl.ac.uk
Crawford
Sarah
S
Vakili
Kian
K
Robertson
Mary M
MM
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D007600:Judgment; D008297:Male; D016555:Matched-Pair Analysis; D008568:Memory; D011340:Problem Solving; D012016:Reference Values; D012919:Social Behavior; D005879:Tourette Syndrome / Q000523:psychology*