The unipolar–bipolar distinction in the depressive disorders.

Reviews studies concerned with symptomatic behavior, clinical characteristics, genetic factors, and pharmacological response in relation to the unipolar–bipolar distinction in depressive disorders. The findings suggest that differences among some forms of the larger polar disorders do exist in the above areas. However, heterogeneity of results remains evident, indicating that finer subdivisions within the larger polar groups are necessary. Accordingly, research within the guidelines of a genetic taxonomy of polar groups is assessed and recommended as the most productive framework for future investigation of the depressive disorders. (4 p ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)