Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 20, 2026

Task Interruption and Resumption Paradigm for Testing the Activation and Pursuit of an Abstract Thinking Goal
Published on: April 18, 2017
Mania and dysregulation in goal pursuit: a review
1Flipse Building Fifth Floor, Department of Psychology, University of Miami, 5665 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables, Fl 33146, USA. Sjohnson@miami.edu
Abstract:
This paper reviews evidence for deficits in goal regulation in bipolar disorder. A series of authors have described mania as related to higher accomplishment, elevated achievement motivation, and ambitious goal setting. These characteristics appear to be evident outside of episodes, and to some extent, among family members of people with a history of mania. In addition, people with a history of mania demonstrate intense mood reactivity, particularly in response to success and reward. During positive moods, they appear to experience robust increases in confidence. These increases in confidence, coupled with a background of ambitious goals, are believed to promote excessive pursuit of goals. This excessive goal engagement is hypothesized to contribute to manic symptoms after an initial life success.
Related Concept Videos
Self-Discrepancy Theory
Drive-Reduction Theory: Push Theory of Motivation
Self-Regulation
Frustration and Conflict: Approach-Approach, Approach-Avoidance
One common type of conflict is the Approach–Approach Conflict. In this case, a person faces two desirable options,...

