Summary
This research project aims to systematically test a novel, integrated reward-circadian model to predict the first onset of bipolar spectrum disorders (BSD) in adolescents, examining bidirectional relationships between reward responsivity and circadian rhythms.
What they want
The project will utilize an innovative biobehavioral high-risk design involving 320 participants aged 14-16 in a prospective 3-year longitudinal study. Participants will be selected based on self-reported reward responsivity, with oversampling at the high end. Assessments will occur every 6 months (Times 1-6) for reward-relevant and social rhythm disruption (SRD) life events, and self-report and diagnostic assessments of bipolar symptoms and episodes. Yearly (Times 1, 3, and 5), participants will complete self-report measures of circadian chronotype and social rhythm regularity, a salivary dim light melatonin onset (DLMO) procedure to assess circadian phase, self-report, behavioral, and neural (fMRI) assessments of monetary and social reward responsivity, and a 7-day Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) period. During each EMA period, continuous measures of sleep/wake and activity (actigraphy) will be collected, along with 3 within-day measures of life events coded for reward-relevance and SRD, monetary and social reward responsivity, positive and negative affect, and hypo/manic and depressive symptoms. The fMRI scan and DLMO procedure will occur on the day before the start of each EMA period, excluding weekends.
Deliverables
- Integrated reward-circadian model for first onset of BSD
- Research findings on the prediction of first onset of BSD and increases in bipolar symptoms
Technical requirements
- Biobehavioral high-risk design
- Prospective 3-year longitudinal study
- Self-report assessments
- Diagnostic assessments of bipolar symptoms and episodes
- Salivary dim light melatonin onset (DLMO) procedure
- Behavioral assessments of monetary and social reward responsivity
- Neural (fMRI) assessments of monetary and social reward responsivity
- 7-day Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) periods
- Continuous measures of sleep/wake and activity (actigraphy)
