Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 5, 2026

Developing a Rat Model for Bipolar Disorder
Published on: May 2, 2025
Bipolar disorder in children and adolescents
1Department of Psychiatry, Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3811 O'Hara Street, Bellefield Towers Room 612, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
Background:
The existence of bipolar disorder (BP) in youth is controversial.
Methods:
The current evidence regarding the diagnosis of BP in youth was reviewed.
Results:
BP is a recurrent familial disorder that occurs in 1-3% of youth, particularly in adolescents. Except for subsyndromal BP, the prevalence of BP-I is similar across most countries. Due to the child's immaturity, the presence of comorbid disorders, and divergent interpretations of manic symptomatology it is difficult to diagnose BP in youth. Youth with subsyndromal mania and family history of BP, are at high risk to develop BP-I and BP-II. Both the full and subsyndromal syndromal BP are associated with significant psychosocial difficulties and increased risk for use of substances, suicidality, legal problems, and services utilization.
Conclusion:
BP disorder exists in youth, but it is difficult to diagnose. The recurrent nature and psychosocial morbidity associated with this illness during critical developmental stages calls for comprehensive longitudinal evaluation and accurate recognition and treatment because delays in treatment are associated with poor outcome.
More Related Videos
13:08Measurement of Fronto-limbic Activity Using an Emotional Oddball Task in Children with Familial High Risk for Schizophrenia
Published on: December 2, 2015
05:52Handwriting Analysis Indicates Spontaneous Dyskinesias in Neuroleptic Naïve Adolescents at High Risk for Psychosis
Published on: November 21, 2013
Related Concept Videos
Bipolar Disorder
Mania and Antimanic Drugs: Overview
Borderline Personality Disorder
Genetic and Environmental Contributions
Borderline Personality...
Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and...
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
Conduct Disorder