Investigating executive functioning abilities in Tourette Syndrome (TS) and effects on adaptive functioning

This thesis focuses on Executive Functioning abilities in children and young people with Tourette Syndrome (TS). Part 1 comprises a literature review, using a systematic review method, to determine whether executive functioning impairments are present in individuals with TS. The review explores the extent to which EF impairments, if found, are exacerbated by comorbidity (e.g., with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD), mediated by the type of measure used, and if profiles of performance change across the developmental lifespan. The empirical research paper in Part 2 examines distinct components of executive functioning, using experimental and ecologically valid behavioural measures in a group of 47 children with diagnoses of Tourette Syndrome. Of primary interest was to explore whether executive functioning is impaired in these children, and if executive functioning abilities impact on adaptive functioning. The work described was a joint project with my colleague, Summer Fakhro. The critical appraisal (Part 3) offers some reflections about the research process, on working with young people with complex conditions in a research capacity, and outlines some recommendations for future resear