There is increasing interest in the psychosocial variables that might
predict the course of child and adolescent bipolar disorder. In the
literature on adult bipolar disorder, life events have been shown to be a
major predictor of symptoms. In this review, we focus on studies of how
life events influence the course of child and adolescent bipolar disorder.
To begin, we review methodological considerations in life events research,
and briefly summarize the findings regarding life events in adult bipolar
disorder. Then, we discuss available studies on life events as a predictor
of the course of juvenile bipolar disorder. We conclude with suggested
directions for future research.