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Measuring circadian function in bipolar disorders: Empirical and conceptual review of physiological, actigraphic, and self‐report approaches
Author(s) -
Murray Greg,
Gottlieb John,
Hidalgo Maria Paz,
Etain Bruno,
Ritter Philipp,
Skene Debra J.,
Garbazza Corrado,
Bullock Ben,
Merikangas Kathleen,
Zipunnikov Vadim,
Shou Haochang,
Gonzalez Robert,
Scott Jan,
Geoffroy Pierre A.,
Frey Benicio N.
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
bipolar disorders
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.285
H-Index - 129
eISSN - 1399-5618
pISSN - 1398-5647
DOI - 10.1111/bdi.12963
Subject(s) - circadian rhythm , actigraphy , psychology , bipolar disorder , melatonin , dark therapy , neuroscience , clinical psychology , cognitive psychology , cognition
Background Interest in biological clock pathways in bipolar disorders (BD) continues to grow, but there has yet to be an audit of circadian measurement tools for use in BD research and practice. Procedure The International Society for Bipolar Disorders Chronobiology Task Force conducted a critical integrative review of circadian methods that have real‐world applicability. Consensus discussion led to the selection of three domains to review—melatonin assessment, actigraphy, and self‐report. Results Measurement approaches used to quantify circadian function in BD are described in sufficient detail for researchers and clinicians to make pragmatic decisions about their use. A novel integration of the measurement literature is offered in the form of a provisional taxonomy distinguishing between circadian measures (the instruments and methods used to quantify circadian function, such as dim light melatonin onset) and circadian constructs (the biobehavioral processes to be measured, such as circadian phase). Conclusions Circadian variables are an important target of measurement in clinical practice and biomarker research. To improve reproducibility and clinical application of circadian constructs, an informed systematic approach to measurement is required. We trust that this review will decrease ambiguity in the literature and support theory‐based consideration of measurement options.