The association of affective temperaments and bipolar spectrum psychopathology: An experience sampling study

Affective temperaments are trait-like expressions of affect that underlie mood psychopathology. Numerous studies have examined affective temperaments in laboratory-based studies; however, few have examined the expression of these temperaments in daily life. The present study examined affective temperaments and their associations with the expression of bipolar spectrum characteristics in daily life using experience sampling methodology. Young adults (n = 290) completed the TEMPS-A and were signaled eight times daily for 1 week to complete smartphone surveys assessing affect, cognition, and behavior. Hyperthymic temperament was associated with positive affect, sense of self, and success. In contrast, cyclothymic/irritable temperament was associated with negative affect, impulsivity, negative sense of self, and difficulty concentrating. Those high in cyclothymic/irritable temperament were especially reactive to the experience of stress. Affective temperaments were differentially associated with the expression of bipolar spectrum psychopathology in daily life. The findings offer validation of the TEMPS-A, as well as the adaptive and maladaptive characteristics of hyperthymic and cyclothymic/irritable temperaments.