The article begins by stating that the DSM-III-R, the most current issue at the time, divides affective disorders into 2 categories: unipolar and bipolar. Those with unipolar disorders only experience depressive episodes. Individuals with bipolar disorder experience episodes of mania, as well as depression, or only manic episodes. The distinction between the two has been evidenced in things such as different responses to medication and concurrence in twins. Psychological testing may be another way in which the disorders can be discriminated. …
