Characterization of Risk-Taking in Adults With Bipolar Spectrum Disorders.

Individuals with bipolar spectrum disorders experience higher morbidity and mortality rates relative to the general population because of increased commission of dangerous behaviors. Despite this impact, little is known about the overall rates of risk-taking behaviors in patients currently being treated for such illness. This study examined the frequency of a variety of risk-taking behaviors in 100 adults with bipolar spectrum disorders in an active outpatient psychiatric treatment. It was found that 70% of individuals assessed reported at least one risk-taking behavior over the preceding 7 days. Implications for assessment and intervention are discussed.