here where I live, we call cupping, shrugging, and other movements to block out whats going on inside with the alters or disguise whats going on with the alters - habits, and mannerisms, which are learned or taught behaviors.

here where I live "tics" are involuntary physical movements that cannot be chosen or done at will and are done uncontrollably caused by physical problems like Parkinson's disease ,Multiple Sclerosis, Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, Tourettes and others. Medications can also cause "tics"

I have tics from either Multiple Sclerosis or Parkinson's (hasnt been narrowed down any further yet) it gets hard sometimes, and sometimes it is embarrassing. I have alleviated some of this by disclosing my possible diagnoses. I also take medication that helps somewhat.

I do have some habits and mannerisms that I learned in childhood. Instead of saying "Pinky" did it and getting punished for lying I learned to keep my mouth shut, twirl my hair and said sorry. When the voices got real loud or I found myself talking aloud I would recite a nursery rhyme so that the other kids would just think I was trying to sing and rhyme. When I got a bit older and rain needed to cry I would make up a really sad story. so that people would think I was playing a game / play acting / role playing. When I would find out one snotty alter was out I would burst into a "rich *****" attitude and people would again think I was play acting /role playing. I would also cup my ears. my family just thought I had an ear ache. I was in therapy as a child and as an adult. my therapist's recommended when things like this would happen I write in my journal. those journal entries were the keys to helping me and my therapist understand how to help me and my alters.

here is some information on tics maybe this can help you. I also suggest possibly talking with your treatment providers. they may nkow of ways that can help you.

http://aacap.org/page.ww?name=Tic+Di...s+for+Families