The Bipolar Spectrum: The Joy of Exposure, the Wisdom in Circumspection and the Danger of Isolation

Abstract

The Bipolar Spectrum is introduced as the canopy concept for any and all entries in DSM IV. The rationale is found in exposure theory, in which the ‘schizoid’ side (visualized at left) is comprised of traits involved in avoiding and averting exposure, and traits to the right of center are the ‘manic’ elements utilized for confronting and coping with exposure. Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and the like occupy a middle ground overlapping small portions of left and right in varied combination's.Exposure is introduced as the interface between self and external triggers and also as the origin of stress as we commonly take that concept. Successive sections deal with the role of exposure and its regulation in order that the organism achieve flexibility in its adaptive responses. The remainder of the paper introduces and explicates the principal mechanisms postulated to allow brain and mind together to interpret and manage exposure. The mechanisms are explained as vehicles accounting for numerous examples of normal and abnormal behavior.