Tourette syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by chronic tics (i.e., repetitive and stereotyped movements and vocalizations) and premonitory urges (i.e., aversive sensations preceding tics that are alleviated once a tic is perfo rmed). Research supports that dysfunctional neurobiological and psychological processes interact and contribute to the development and maintenance of tics. However, psychological theories of Tourette syndrome and accompanying research have mainly focused o n the emotional states (e.g., anxiety and frustration) and behavioural principles (i.e., operant conditioning) that play a role in tic exacerbation. This selective review summarizes key discoveries pertaining to the emotional and behavioural aspects of Tou rette syndrome but also proposes a more comprehensive, cognitively - oriented conceptualization of the disorder. Specifically , it is proposed that maladaptive beliefs about discomfort and about one’s ability to cope with discomfort underlie negative appraisals of unpleasant sensory experiences in individuals with Tourette syndrome. It is further suggested that these beliefs lead individuals to perceive premonitory urges in a catastrophic manner and thereby enhance tic frequency. Concrete research aven ues to empirically examine th e s e hypothes e s are outlined and clinical implications for the field of cognitive - behaviour therapy are discussed
