Mood as a lock gate canalizing multiple creativity: A heuristic single-case study

Abstract

BackgroundThe concept of creativity encompasses the ability to produce innovatively original solutions that exceed the status quo. Eminent creatives are frequently afflicted with bipolar disorders, and persons presenting certain forms of bipolar disorder might have enhanced creativity. The link between creativity and bipolar disorder has intrigued researchers but no definite liaison has been established between creativity and mood alterations. MethodsWe address this issue on this perspective by analysing various expression forms of creativity, as well as creative achievement according to the clinically diagnosed mood states at an eminent person, treated for bipolar disorder. Beside full agreement of the patient, an ethical committee approval has been granted for processing and publishing the case. ResultsHypomania boosts visual artistic creativity and scientific work while mild to moderate depression facilitates literary performance. Severe depression and depressive mixed states do not promote either aspect of creativity, and euthymia, with blunted mood swings by medication, is also detrimental to creativity. ConclusionsIt appears that positive but also negative mood have curvilinear effects on creativity. We argue that there are different correlates of a creative process in one person, where mood functions as a lock gate to canalize various creativity forms, resulting in multiple creativity as a function of distinct mood states in bipolar disorder. LimitationsThe lack of performing the studies of personality is a limitation of the paper.