Self-Transcendence as a Key Predictor in Bipolar Disorder Remission: A Time Perspective and Temperament Study

This study aimed to examine how individuals with bipolar disorder (BD) in remission perceive time and how this perception is associated with their temperament and character traits.

A total of 65 patients diagnosed with BD in remission, according to DSM-5 criteria, and 65 age- and gender-matched healthy controls were included. Remission was confirmed using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D < 8) and the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS < 6). All participants completed the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory (ZTPI) and the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI). Group differences were analyzed using independent samples t-tests, relationships among variables were assessed via correlation analysis, and multiple linear and logistic regression models were conducted to determine predictive factors.

The BD group exhibited significantly higher self-transcendence scores than the control group (P=.002). In the BD group, past-negative perspective was positively correlated with harm avoidance (r=0.574, P=0.001) and negatively with self-directedness (r=-0.586, P=.001). Present hedonism showed a strong positive correlation with self-transcendence (r=0.595, P=.001). Linear regression analysis revealed that past-negative perception was significantly predicted by harm avoidance and self-directedness (R2adj=0.60, P<.001). Logistic regression analysis indicated that higher self-transcendence scores significantly increased the risk of BD diagnosis (OR=1.147, 95% CI [1.066-1.235], P<.001), while higher present-hedonism scores were associated with a decreased risk (OR=0.933, 95% CI [0.879-0.991], P=.023).

These findings suggest that self-transcendence may represent a distinguishing personality characteristic in individuals with BD during remission. Although no causal interpretations can be made, the pattern of results indicates a potential association between self-transcendence and temporal-cognitive processes. Further research is needed to clarify the nature and clinical relevance of this relationship.