Abstract

JIMENEZ-BENITEZ, Mercedes et al. Neuropsychological Characteristics of the Bipolar Disorder I. rev.colomb.psiquiatr. [online]. 2003, vol.32, n.4, pp.357-372. ISSN 0034-7450.

Neuropsychology is the discipline that studies the mind-brain-behavior relationship through the analysis of the brain structure and brain processes supporting superior psychological functions such as consciousness, attention, learning, memory, thought, motivation and affection. Neuropsychological disturbances on bipolar disorder patients have been poorly studied when compared to other psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia. However, increasing interest has developed due to it’s implications on the etiology, treatment, prevention, prognosis, adjustment predictors, social competence and quality of life of such patients. This article intends to review the research published relating bipolar disorder with neuropsychological abnormalities up to date. A review of research on different phases was done, including mania, depression or euthymia; comparative studies with schizophrenic patients and the likely influence of psychotropic medication are also discussed.

Keywords : Bipolar I disorder; neuropsychology; mania; depression.

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