Qualitative Exploration of Early Manifestation of Bipolar Disorder

Abstract

The current study aimed to explore the early manifestation of bipolar disorder’s symptoms spectrum to understand early developmental detriments, expression of bipolar in childhood, and its trajectory. This will help in early detection and better managementof bipolar disorder. A qualitative study was carried out and in-depth interviews were conducted with participants. The targeted population included professional experts. Data was analysed through thematic analysis in NVIVO 14 which led towards the emergence of seven themes. After the careful analysis of themes extracted from retrospective data, it was concluded that the premorbid personality of bipolar patients had features of hyperactivity, difficulty in regulating emotions, high levels of anxiousness andenergy levels, and being pampered by parents leading to complaining and demanding behavior. Moreover, it was found that they excelled in studies and some cases it was reported that they suffered from traumatic events in their childhood and most likely childhood abuse. Furthermore, the intensity and duration of these symptoms were found to be less severe but frequent. The findings imply that parents should keenly observe their child’s behavior and seek help timely when such behaviors are observed that are deviant from children of similar age groups