A growing body of clinical and experimental evidence shows that neurocognitive dysfunction is a fundamental—yet frequently ignored or misidentified—component of bipolar disorder. The first comprehensive book of its kind, Cognitive Dysfunction in Bipolar Disorder: A Guide for Clinicians compiles the latest data in neuropsychology, neuroimaging, neurogenetics, and functional outcomes research to enable clinicians to more effectively utilize pharmacological and psychotherapeutic techniques in their treatment of bipolar disorder. This volume outlines and demystifies current knowledge about neuropsychological functioning in bipolar disorder in a reader-friendly, easy-to-understand guide for practitioners. Its 12 chapters, written by 23 internationally-renowned expert contributors, examine such topics as attentional and executive functioning, neuroimaging and genetic correlates of cognitive functioning, pharmacological strategies, bipolar disorder in pediatric patients, and cognition across the life span. The book also comes with the added benefit of: • A review of neurocognitive domains, examples of their operation in everyday life, the neuroanatomical regions with which they are associated, and common tests used to assess their function • Summarized data from large-scale clinical trials, including the National Institute of Mental Health Antipsychotic Trials of Intervention Effectiveness (CATIE) study • Take-home points at the end of each chapter summarizing main concepts and “clinical pearls” • Case studies and illustrative examples depicting the application of specific neurocognitive principles Using relevant applications from cognitive neuroscience, Cognitive Dysfunction in Bipolar Disorder provides clinicians with a comprehensive overview of astounding breakthroughs in the assessment and treatment of patients with bipolar disorder. It plows new ground in the mental health industry, correcting distortions and laying the foundation for future clinical research in this rapidly expanding field. Contents: Foreword. Preface. Overview and introduction: dimensions of cognition and measures of cognitive function. Attentional and executive functioning in bipolar disorder. Memory deficits associated with bipolar disorder. The endophenotype concept: examples from neuropsychological and neuroimaging studies of bipolar disorder. Impact of mood, anxiety, and psychotic symptoms on cognition in patients with bipolar disorder. Improving psychotherapy practice and technique for bipolar disorder: lessons from cognitive neuroscience. Adverse cognitive effects of psychotropic medications. Pharmacological strategies to enhance neurocognitive function. Cognitive dysfunction in children and adolescents with bipolar disorder: relative contribution of bipolar disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Cognition and functional outcome in bipolar disorder. Cognition across the life span: clinical implications for older adults with bipolar disorder. Summary and assessment recommendations for practitioners. Index. | 
