Chapter 11. Bipolar II Disorder in Childhood and Adolescence

Pediatric bipolar II disorder (BD II) is characterized by episodes of hypomania alternating with episodes of major depression, consistent with DSM-5 BD II criteria for adults (American Psychiatric Association 2013). In this chapter, we provide relevant background information on pediatric bipolar I disorder (BD I), bipolar disorder not otherwise specified (BD NOS), and cyclothymic disorder, given the paucity of specific research focused on pediatric BD II and the similarities in demographics, comorbid disorders, course, and outcome among the different subtypes of bipolar disorder in pediatric populations. We draw on the adult BD II literature to highlight differences between pediatric and adult populations. We use the term youth to refer to children and adolescents.