Physical and social impairment in persons with repetitive behavior disorders

Abstract

In this chapter we reviewed a variety of harmful medical and non medical problems associated with tic disorders, trichotillomania, and other RBDs. We also attempted to explain the potential etiology of the concerns, and discussed possible strategies for their clinical management. Although this chapter summarized the extant research on these topics, it is clear that the lines of investigation are either in their early stages or have yet to inaugurated. For example, the epidemiology of secondary non medical problems is incomplete across disorders and research on the cause of these problems is incomplete for some disorders (e.g., tic disorders) and missing entirely for others (e.g., nail biting). The empirical literature on psychological and/or behavioral treatments for the harmful effects of RBDs is also quite limited. Although we describe or propose a sample of interventions to address at least some problems associated with RBDs, few of these have been scientifically evaluated in that context. There are examples of other important research agendas scattered throughout this chapter. It is our ardent hope that research on the sequelae of RBDs will expand sufficiently to achieve a goal of paramount importance for those afflicted, elimination or substantial reduction in related harm. © 2006 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.