The context of the relationship between barberry, deer, and ticks was for forest environments where barberry dominated the understory. The invasive barberry was forming a dense shrub layer that provided cool conditions for ticks. Thinning the shrub layer reduced local tick populations by 80%.
In the garden, barberry wouldn't be any more attractive to ticks than any other similar shrub and barberry is fairly deer resistant. That said, barberry is considered invasive in many areas and should be planted with caution.

Here is a link that might be useful: Ticks, deer, & barberry

Thanks for feedback.

There are lots of nice golden shrubs that aren't invasive and don't have thorns. For example, golden spiraeas look great, are very easy to grow, and have flowers. Just a thought.

There are lots of nice golden shrubs that aren't invasive and don't have thorns. For example, golden spiraeas look great, are very easy to grow, and have flowers. Just a thought.