"This book is a `must' for anyone interested in a developmental perspective on bipolar disorder across the lifespan. It is likely to become the standard reference in the area. Miklowitz and Cicchetti have chosen their contributors well, producing a volume of great value and one that fills an important void in the literature."---Ellen Frank, PhD, Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry and Professor of Psychology, Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine<BR><BR>"A tour de force. This book masterfully brings together all that is known about the biological, social, and psychological factors that contribute to bipolar disorder and that underlie treatment. In chapter after chapter, internationally acclaimed authors present their areas of expertise with extraordinary breadth and depth, and with great compassion for people with the disorder. Will surely be required reading for researchers, clinicians, and students."---Mark Williams, PhD, Wellcome Principal Research Fellow, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, United Kingdom<BR><BR>"This volume approaches bipolar disorder from many different angles, all through the lens of developmental psychopathology. It gives the reader a unique perspective on emerging data on the genetics and neurobiology of the disorder, its etiology, and psychotherapeutic and pharmacological treatments. Miklowitz and Cicchetti have provided an important resource for psychology and psychiatry trainees as well as more experienced clinicians who are confronting this very real public health issue."---Kiki D. Chang, MD, Director, Pediatric Bipolar Disorders Program, Stanford University School of Medicine, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital<BR><BR>This is the first book to systematically examine the development and course of bipolar disorder across the lifespan. The editors and contributors are foremost authorities on adult- and childhood-onset bipolar disorders. Synthesizing cutting-edge research at multiple levels of analysis, including genetic, neurobiological, psychological, family, and social perspectives, they identify important directions for evidence-based treatment and prevention.<BR><BR>The volume begins with a cogent overview of the developmental psychopathology framework and its application to bipolar disorder. Subsequent sections address the phenomenology and diagnosis of the disorder in children; its cours'e and outcomes in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood; genetic, cognitive, and environmental stress pathways to onset; and pharmacological and psychosocial treatments. Illuminated are the dynamic interactions among risk and protective factors that lead to disabling mood symptoms---or successful adaptation---at different stages of development. Major topics include:<BR><BR>Rounding out the volume is a moving first-person account of growing up in a family affected by bipolar disorder. This chapter offers a unique view of the course of the illness across one person's life, and its effects on family members.<BR><BR>Presenting compelling advances in science and clinical practice, this book is an essential reference for adult and child clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, developmental psychologists, and clinical social workers, as well as graduate students and trainees.