This Assignment Is An Analysis Of A Selected Neuropsychology ✓ Solved

This assignment is an analysis of a selected neuropsychological disorder

This assignment is an analysis of a selected neuropsychological disorder. This topic choice will be used to complete the Week One Assignment (Topic Selection), Week Two Assignment (Outline of Final Project), and the Week Five Assignment (Final Project). Select a neuropsychological disorder for comprehensive analysis from the following list, based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5 (DSM-5): Bipolar disorder. The focus of your paper will be on the neuroscience aspects of the disorder, including:

  • Theories of etiology (causes)
  • Associated factors in development of the disorder (genetic, environmental, familial, lifestyle)
  • Pathology (abnormalities of physical structure and function, including genetic and biochemical aspects)
  • Treatment options (pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic), with rationales based on current understanding
  • Diagnostic and research technologies used in clinical diagnosis, care, and research

Your research should include two to three peer-reviewed sources providing evidence-based information regarding the biological and psychological features of the disorder.

Refer to the Final Project guidelines for details on components to include. Write a 2-3 page, double-spaced analysis formatted according to APA style, including a title page with your paper's title, your name, course name and number, instructor’s name, and submission date. Your paper must describe the key aspects of the disorder to be elaborated on in your Final Project and explain why you have chosen to critique this disorder. Incorporate in-text citations from your sources to support your discussion, referencing your textbook and course materials, as well as at least two to three scholarly sources published within the last five years retrieved from the Ashford University Library. All sources must be documented in APA style, including a separate reference page. Review the grading rubric for evaluation criteria.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a complex neuropsychological condition characterized by significant mood swings, including emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). Its multifaceted etiology involves genetic, environmental, and biochemical factors, making it an intriguing subject for neuroscientific analysis. This paper explores the key neurological aspects of bipolar disorder, focusing on its causes, associated factors, pathology, treatment options, and diagnostic technologies.

Theories of Etiology

Research indicates that bipolar disorder has a substantial genetic component, evidenced by familial aggregation and twin studies (Craddock & Sklar, 2016). Specific gene variations, such as those affecting neurotransmitter systems like serotonin and dopamine, have been implicated. Environmental stressors, including traumatic events or substance abuse, may trigger or exacerbate the disorder (Malhi & McGorry, 2019). Additionally, neurobiological models suggest dysregulation of neural circuits involved in mood regulation, especially within the prefrontal cortex and limbic areas (Frangou & Frangou, 2020).

Associated Factors in Development

Genetic predisposition is considered a primary factor, as evidenced by heritability estimates of approximately 60-80% (McInnis et al., 2018). Environmental factors, such as chronic stress, sleep deprivation, and substance use, can influence the onset and severity of bipolar symptoms. Family history remains a significant risk factor, informing the heritable nature of the disorder (Brady & McDonald, 2017). Lifestyle factors, including diet and exercise, may also modulate symptom expression and course.

Pathology of Bipolar Disorder

Neuropathological studies have identified structural and functional abnormalities in individuals with bipolar disorder. These include reduced gray matter volume in the prefrontal cortex and amygdala, regions critical for emotion regulation (Kempton et al., 2018). Biochemically, altered neurotransmitter activity—particularly involving serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine—contributes to mood dysregulation (Yatham et al., 2021). Genetic mutations affecting circadian rhythm regulation may also play a role in the disorder’s pathology (McCarthy et al., 2019).

Treatment Options

Pharmacological treatments, such as mood stabilizers like lithium and anticonvulsants, aim to regulate neurotransmitter imbalances and stabilize mood (Goodwin & Jamison, 2019). Atypical antipsychotics are also used to treat manic episodes. Nonpharmacological interventions, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, and lifestyle modifications, support ongoing management and reduce relapse risk (Scott & Colom, 2018). Rationales for these treatments are grounded in understanding the neurochemical and cognitive deficits inherent in bipolar disorder.

Diagnostic and Research Technologies

Neuroimaging techniques like functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) help visualize brain abnormalities associated with bipolar disorder (Salvadore et al., 2020). Electroencephalography (EEG) has been used to detect neural activity patterns correlating with mood episodes. Genetic testing enhances understanding of inherited risk factors, while biomarker studies aim to develop more precise diagnostic tools (Berk, 2022). These technologies advance both clinical practice and neuroscientific research, facilitating early detection and personalized treatment approaches.

Conclusion

Bipolar disorder exemplifies the intricate interplay between genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors. Continued research utilizing advanced diagnostic technologies and evidence-based treatment strategies promises to deepen our understanding and improve outcomes for individuals affected by this complex disorder. Emphasizing a neuroscience-focused approach helps to unravel its etiology and pathology, guiding more effective interventions and fostering hope for improved management.

References

  • Berk, M. (2022). Biomarkers in mood disorders: Moving toward precision medicine. The Lancet Psychiatry, 9(1), 16-17.
  • Brady, R., & McDonald, M. (2017). Environmental factors contributing to bipolar disorder. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 94, 50-55.
  • Craddock, N., & Sklar, P. (2016). Genetics of bipolar disorder. The Lancet, 387(10027), 1672-1682.
  • Frangou, S., & Frangou, N. (2020). Neuroimaging in bipolar disorder: Advances and challenges. Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience, 45(2), 95-107.
  • Goodwin, F. K., & Jamison, K. R. (2019). Manic-Depressive Illness: Bipolar Disorders and Recurrent Depression. Oxford University Press.
  • Kempton, M. J., et al. (2018). Brain structural abnormalities in bipolar disorder: A meta-analysis of voxel-based morphometry studies. Bipolar Disorders, 20(5), 437-455.
  • Malhi, G. S., & McGorry, P. D. (2019). Bipolar disorder: Problems and prospects. The Lancet, 393(10176), 2220-2232.
  • McCarthy, M. J., et al. (2019). Circadian rhythm disruptions and bipolar disorder: Pathophysiology and therapeutic implications. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 10, 907.
  • McInnis, M. G., et al. (2018). Genetic insights into bipolar disorder. Molecular Psychiatry, 23(7), 1382-1392.
  • Salvadore, G., et al. (2020). Neuroimaging biomarkers in bipolar disorder. Journal of Affective Disorders, 266, 336-346.

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