Losing Control: An Analysis of a Bipolar Disorder Communication Narrative

This narrative analysis focuses on the impact bipolar disorder has on relational communication from a first-person perspective. Focusing on the loss of control of communication and action during manic and/or depressive episode, this work aims to provide communicative markers that can be used to identify bipolar disorder quickly. An auto-ethnographical narrative served as the data for the study. The narrative was analyzed using thematic analysis by looking for recurrence, repetition, and forcefulness with respect to the communication examples.

By analyzing expectancy violation, dialectical tensions, boundaries, and social support, this work creates a deeper understanding of what it means to share private information during a bipolar break. Through the lens of communication privacy management theory, this work focuses on the lack of control one has during a bipolar break. This lack of control led to the theoretical implication that CPM is not present during a bipolar break due to the lack of control over one’s ability to manage communication.

The practical implications of this narrative analysis aim to provide caregivers, friends, family, and coworkers with the information necessary to help to those struggling with a bipolar break. While medical research is available, it is difficult to understand and not meant for a lay audience. This work aims to provide clear evidence that a bipolar break can be identified and managed through communication theory. Communication is a fundamental aspect of everyday life; therefore, the goal is to provide a communicative perspective that can help those struggling with bipolar disorder and those trying to help the struggling individuals.