Question 1

Negative life events such as losses have been found to be associated with all of the following except

Accepted Answer

Negative life events, such as losses, have been associated with the development of depressive symptoms and comorbid psychiatric disorders, as well as a history of childhood abuse. However, they are not typically associated with the development of manic symptoms of bipolar disorder. In fact, manic symptoms are more likely to be associated with positive life events, such as increased social support or success at work or school.

Question 2

Manic episodes of bipolar disorder are thought be related to

Accepted Answer

Disruption of sleep-wake cycles has been identified as a trigger for manic episodes in bipolar disorder. Changes in diet, female gender, and advanced age are not consistently identified as triggers for manic episodes.

Question 3

The course of bipolar disorder is characterized by

Accepted Answer

The course of bipolar disorder is often marked by difficulty in achieving good vocational functioning, as individuals with the disorder may experience periods of intense mood symptoms that can interfere with their ability to maintain employment and productivity in the workplace. This can lead to significant social and economic consequences for the individual and their family. While patient adherence to treatment can contribute to better outcomes, recurrences of mood episodes are common and may occur despite treatment. Good interpersonal and social functioning may be challenging for individuals with bipolar disorder during periods of mood instability, though with effective treatment and support, many individuals can still lead fulfilling lives.

Question 4

In treatment of the acute phase of mania, the focus is on

Accepted Answer

During the acute phase of mania, protecting the patient's biopsychosocial safety is the primary focus. This includes ensuring that the patient does not harm themselves or others, providing a safe and structured environment, and addressing any immediate physical or medical needs. Education about social rhythms theory or interventions for self-management of finances may be important components of longer term treatment, but they are not the primary focus during the acute phase of mania. Addressing impairment of vocational functioning may also be important, but it is not the primary focus during the acute phase.

Question 5

Compared with unipolar depression, the depressed phase of bipolar disorder is associated with

Accepted Answer

The depressed phase of bipolar disorder is associated with more melancholic features than unipolar depression.

Question 6

Disruptions of social rhythms

Accepted Answer

Disruptions of social rhythms are related to changes in zeitgebers or time givers, such as changes in daily routines, sleep patterns and meal schedules. This can have a negative impact on mental health and well-being, especially for those who are prone to mood disorders. B, C, and D are all incorrect as they do not accurately describe the relationship between social rhythms and mental health.

Question 7

On clinical evaluation, patients with bipolar disorder have been found to have impairment of

Accepted Answer

Patients with bipolar disorder have been found to have impairment in executive functioning, which includes skills such as planning, decision-making, working memory, and cognitive flexibility. Balance, production of speech, and spatial functioning are not typically affected by bipolar disorder.

Question 8

In the prodromal phase of bipolar disorder, patients' behaviors often include

Accepted Answer

Increased talkativeness can be a sign of the prodromal phase of bipolar disorder, indicating a shift towards hypomania or mania.

Question 9

The heritability of bipolar disorder is

Accepted Answer

The heritability of bipolar disorder is considered high, with estimates ranging from 80% to 90%. This means that genetic factors play a significant role in the likelihood of developing the condition.

Quiz 14: Bipolar Disorder