Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes a tic as per the DSM-5?

1. An involuntary and sudden vocalization or movement

2. Repetitive and nonfunctional motor behavior

3. Stereotyped motor movements only

4. Voluntarily controlled movements

The correct answer is: An involuntary and sudden vocalization or movement

A tic is defined in the DSM-5 as an involuntary and sudden vocalization or movement. This definition emphasizes the characteristic features of tics, which are typically sudden bursts that occur without apparent intent or control by the individual. Tics can manifest as brief, repetitive movements (motor tics) or vocalizations (vocal tics), and they are often experienced as difficult to suppress. The other options do not fully capture the specific nature of what constitutes a tic. For example, repetitive and nonfunctional motor behavior would more accurately describe compulsions or other behaviors seen in different disorders, rather than the involuntary and sudden aspects of tics. Stereotyped motor movements may resemble tics but do not include the suddenness or involuntary characteristic inherent to tics. Finally, voluntarily controlled movements are not tics since by definition, tics lack voluntary control. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for proper identification and diagnosis in clinical settings.