Britney Spears and Bipolar Disorder, Research Paper Example

Britney Spears, born Britney Jean Spears on December 2, 1981, is a singer, dancer, songwriter, actress, author, and former child star. She became internationally famous in 1999 with the release of her debut album, “Baby One More Time.” She is also the mother of two boys with ex-husband Kevin Federline, Sean Preston Federline, 7-years-old, and Jayden James Federline, 5-years-old. (Disabled World) After her divorce from Kevin Federline, Spears began publicly exhibiting behavior associated with a mood disorder identified as bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder, also called manic-depressive disorder, is a mood disorder characterized by mood swings that fluctuate between extreme depression and instances of mania. (Mayo Clinic Staff) Spears’ increasingly erratic and unpredictable public behavior since her divorce from Federline is similar to behavioral symptoms of bipolar disorder. During the highs and lows experienced, unusual and unpredictable behavior is experienced. The behavior may be impulsive, as with Spears’ sudden decision in February 2007 to shave off her hair at a San Fernando Valley Salon and get a tattoo immediately after. Difficulty in maintaining relationships can be another sign of bipolar disorder. Since her divorce, Spears has been engaged to two different men, Jason Trawick and Adnan Ghalib. Including her ex-husband Federline, the speed with which the relationships intensify, abruptness with which they end, and rumors of similar problems within the relationships, this relationship behavior could be a sign of the mood disorder.

Possible causes of bipolar disorder for Spears could be related to the high-stress and high-profile life she has lived since beginning her career as a young child. The disorder can often be successfully treated with a combination of psychotherapy and medications. (Pouliot)