Bipolar Research Update April 9, 2009

In a Swedish study of more than 9 million individuals, it was found that first degree relatives of people with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia were more likely to get these illnesses. Relatives of people with bipolar disorder were also more at risk of schizophrenia, including children adopted by a parent with bipolar disorder. Heritability for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder was 64% and 59% respectively.
Lichtenstein et al (2009). Common genetic determinants of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder among Swedish families: A population-based study. Lancet, 373(9659): 234-239.


In a family study there was no relationship between mood disorder in parents and personality traits in their children. Furthermore, parent's personality traits were not associated with risk of depression in their children.
Rothen et al. (2009). Personality traits in children of parents with unipolar and bipolar mood disorders. Journal of Affective Disorders, 113(1-2), 133-141

In a retrospective cohort study of more than 75,000 inmates in the largest prison system in the USA, it was found that inmates with serious mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder among others, were more likely to have had previous incarcerations. The greatest increase in risk of prior incarcerations were inmates with bipolar disorder who were 3.3 times as likely as inmates with no mental illness to have had 4 or more previous incarcerations in the 6 years prior to the study.
Baillargeon et al (2009). Psychiatric disorders and repeat incarcerations: The revolving prison door. American Journal of Psychiatry, 166(1), 103-109