Social influences on bipolar affective disorders.

The impact of psychosocial adversity on the onset and course of bipolar disorder has been assessed in studies that have relied on methods of eliciting life event histories and evaluating family atmosphere. The results of life event studies have been inconsistent, perhaps because the relationship between bipolar disorder and major stress is only pronounced in first or early episodes. If this is so, this phenomenon itself invites explanation, whether in social or biological terms. The two studies to data of family atmosphere suggest an association between high expressed emotion and relapse. The relationship between psychosocial stress and bipolar disorder requires further and more detailed research.