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Can personality traits predict increases in manic and depressive symptoms?
1University of Miami, P.O. Box 249229, Coral Gables, FL 33124-2010, USA.
Journal of Affective Disorders
|March 14, 2001
Summary
High neuroticism predicts increased depressive symptoms, while high conscientiousness predicts increased manic symptoms in individuals with bipolar disorder. These personality traits may help predict symptom course over time.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Limited research exists on personality traits predicting bipolar disorder symptoms.
- Personality traits may influence the course of manic and depressive episodes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between personality traits and the longitudinal course of bipolar disorder.
- To identify specific personality traits that predict manic and depressive symptom severity over time.
Main Methods:
- 39 participants with bipolar I disorder were assessed.
- Personality was measured using the NEO Five-Factor Inventory.
- Symptom severity was tracked monthly using the Modified Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression and Bech-Rafaelsen Mania Rating Scale.
Main Results:
- High Neuroticism predicted increases in depressive symptoms over time.
- High Conscientiousness, specifically Achievement Striving, predicted increases in manic symptoms over time.
- Findings align with previous research on unipolar depression.
Conclusions:
- Specific personality traits, Neuroticism and Conscientiousness, may help predict the course of bipolar symptoms.
- Further research is needed to explore the state-dependency of personality measures in bipolar disorder.