Elevated expectancies among persons diagnosed with bipolar disorder

Objective. Students at risk for bipolar disorder endorse highly ambitious goals. This study examined expectations for the future among people with actual bipolar disorder, versus people with no history of mood disorder and persons with history of unipolar depression. Methods. One hundred and three students were assessed for Axis I disorders and completed a measure of expected life outcomes. Results. History of mania, but not history of depression, related to higher expectations of achieving popular fame and wealth. Conclusions. People with history of mania anticipate great success in domains involving public recognition.