Abstract
The aim of the present study was to generate a set of therapy suggestions specifically for use in the treatment of creative individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder. In order to achieve this end, the author collected information from bodies of literature that focused on three general research areas: (a) the relationship between bipolar illness and creativity, (b) the treatment of bipolar individuals, and (c) psychotherapy treatment of creative individuals. The information gleaned from these three areas was synthesized and used to inform the general treatment suggestions. This study examined several of the existing approaches to the treatment of bipolar disorder and provided suggestions for ways in which those treatments could be tailored for use with creative clients who are diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Effective psychiatric and psychological (i.e., psychotherapeutic) interventions have been developed for the treatment of individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder, though additional research can be conducted to better understand how these interventions can be adapted to improve outcomes with certain clinical subgroups. Creative individuals with bipolar disorder reflect one such subgroup, and it is hoped that the suggestions for therapeutic adaptations contained within this dissertation begin to draw more attention to an under-researched group.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Dissertations (PsyD) -- Psychology; Manic-depressive illness -- Treatment -- Evaluation; Creative ability -- Case studies; Genius and mental illness
Date of Award
2017
School Affiliation
Graduate School of Education and Psychology
Department/Program
Psychology
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctorate
Faculty Advisor
Woo, Stephanie;
Recommended Citation
Agopian, Sean, "The development of therapy suggestions for addressing issues of creativity in individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder" (2017). Theses and Dissertations. 764.
https://digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu/etd/764