A QUALITATIVE EXPLORATION OF PREDISPOSING FACTORS OF BIPOLAR DISORDER

Abstract

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that affects around forty million people worldwide (WHO, 2019). This highlights the importance of treatment and the need for preventive measures amongst the vulnerable population. Furthermore, it is an important prerequisite to understand the traits and requisites of individuals who are vulnerable to this disorder and what causes this susceptibility. To understand this foremost concern, a qualitative exploration was carried out on predisposing factors linked with the development of bipolar disorder. The prevalence of mood disorder is most common in early adulthood, and this population was targeted for retrospectively understanding the elements of vulnerability. The data was collected from bipolar patients and clinical psychologists using in-depth interview protocols and was analyzed using NVIVO-14 software. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data yielded six themes of genetic factors, premorbid personality, home environment, childhood traits, adverse childhood events, and brain injury. The results of the study suggest that awareness among caregivers about the history of psychiatric illness in the family is very important for getting help in time, leading to better management and accurate diagnosis. Furthermore, this study aims at providing insight amongst parents so they can provide a nurturing environment to their children. This is possible by keeping all the important facets in mind that can lead to prevention of mood disorders among the vulnerable population.