Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Caregivers of Children with Tic Disorders Regarding the Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnosis and Treatment of the Condition

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of caregivers of children with tic disorders regarding the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) diagnosis and treatment of the condition. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted at Wuhan Children’s Hospital from 1 October 2024 to 1 September 2025 using an online questionnaire that included demographic characteristics and three KAP dimensions. Caregivers referred to family members, such as parents or grandparents, who were primarily responsible for the child’s daily care and health management. A score of at least 70% of the maximum possible score in each dimension was considered indicative of adequate knowledge, positive attitudes, or proactive practices. Results: A total of 509 respondents participated in the study. The majority were aged between 18 and 40 years, married, and employed. Based on the 70% cut-off criterion, caregivers demonstrated insufficient knowledge, moderately positive attitudes, and suboptimal practices regarding TCM-related management of tic disorders. The mean scores for knowledge, attitudes, and practices were 8.68 (range 0– 24), 28.02 (range 8– 40), and 36.16 (range 11– 55), respectively. Significant positive correlations were identified between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.422), knowledge and practice (r = 0.564), and attitude and practice (r = 0.476), with all correlations being statistically significant (P < 0.001). Path analysis revealed direct effects of knowledge on attitude (β = 0.496) and practice (β = 0.294), as well as the effect of attitude on practice (β = 0.336). Multivariate logistic regression indicated that higher knowledge (odds ratio [OR] = 1.902) and more positive attitudes (OR = 3.866) were independently associated with proactive practice, while a monthly income between 5000 and 10000 RMB and a history of smoking were associated with less proactive practice. Conclusion: Caregivers exhibited insufficient knowledge, moderately positive attitudes, and inadequate practices regarding TCM-related management of tic disorders. Enhancing caregiver education may foster greater engagement and improve integrative care approaches. Future clinical programs should integrate structured health education and practical guidance to support informed and sustained participation from caregivers.