The emergence of childhood bipolar disorder: a prospective study from 4 months to 7 years of age

The present study reviews the development from 4 to 84 months of age of a boy diagnosed with bipolar mood disorder (BPD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) at 7 years of age. Extensive data were collected in four central domains: psychophysiology (EEG and ECG), child temperament, mother–child interactions, and peer interactions. The target child’s development was traced across time and compared with a cohort of 81 normally developing children. The target child displayed an unusual psychophysiological pattern from early infancy. His highly active central nervous system was coupled with an under-aroused autonomic nervous system. By preschool, his social interactions were marked by inappropriate affect and behavioral disinhibition, along with impulsivity and aggression. Possible links between the child’s psychophysiological pattern and his behavior are discussed. D 2002 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.