Test of the reward/circadian rhythm dysregulation model of risk for bipolar spectrum disorders at a micro time scale using multilevel moderated mediation.

May 11, 2026Journal of psychopathology and clinical science

Testing how problems with reward and daily rhythm systems may increase short-term risk for bipolar disorders

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Abstract

In a study of 145 young adults, significant interactions were found indicating that high-reward sensitivity is linked to increased reward-relevant life events and social rhythm disruption.

  • High-reward individuals reported experiencing more reward-relevant life events during the 20-day assessment.
  • Social rhythm disruption (SRD) was associated with these reward-relevant life events in individuals with high-reward sensitivity.
  • Moderated mediation analysis revealed a significant daily relationship between reward-relevant life events and depressive symptoms through SRD.
  • No significant indirect effect or moderation by reward group was observed for hypomanic symptoms.
  • Findings suggest that hypersensitivity to reward may exacerbate the impact of life events on social rhythm disruption, potentially leading to depressive symptoms.

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