16 Bipolar Disorders Nicholas Lofthouse

Over the past decade, bipolar disorder in children has received increasing attention from the scientific community, media, and general public (see review by Lofthouse & Fristad, 2004). Although interest has grown, continued research is essential, as bipolar disorder in children often devastates family life, school functioning, and peer relationships. If left untreated, it may have a prolonged, highly relapsing course; be less responsive to treatment; and lead to legal difficulties, multiple hospitalizations, and increased rates of substance abuse and suicide (Findling, Kowatch, & Post, 2003; Geller et al., 2003). Despite the detrimental effects of bipolar disorder, few studies have examined the specific effects it has on academic performance, school behavior and peer functioning, clinical–educational implications, or treatment options. This chapter describes the presentation of bipolar disorder in children, its development, specific problems in the school environment, and interventions.