3. Mimicking
To demonstrate the variety and sometimes complexity of tics in those with Tourette’s, it is interesting to note that sometimes a person might develop a tic whereby they mimic the person they are with. This could mean mimicking their body language and posture, or it could be repeating what they say. These are often more complex movements that might not look like involuntary tics to an observer.
While people are increasingly aware of Tourette’s on the whole, many are unaware that it can take this form. Thus they might feel they are being mocked by someone who repeats what they say and this could potentially make socializing difficult for those with the condition.
Note that to some extent, it is actually normal for us to mimic the body language of others. Often we mirror the way that people we are talking to are standing and this is even encouraged in some cases to build ‘rapport’. In the case of Tourette’s though, the behavior is more exaggerated and less controllable.