Which of the following symptoms does NOT pertain to bipolar disorder?

• A. Impulsive risky behavior during manic phases
• B. Hallucinations unrelated to mood episodes
• C. Episodes of mania and depression
• D. Persistent elevated mood

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the core features of bipolar disorder, which primarily include episodes of mania (or hypomania) and depression. These mood episodes are central to the diagnosis.
2. Step 2: Identify symptoms commonly associated with manic phases, such as impulsive risky behavior and persistent elevated mood, both of which are typical in bipolar disorder.
3. Step 3: Recognize that hallucinations can occur in bipolar disorder, but they are usually mood-congruent and occur during mood episodes (mania or depression). Hallucinations unrelated to mood episodes are not characteristic of bipolar disorder.
4. Step 4: Compare each symptom option to the typical symptom profile of bipolar disorder to determine which one does not fit. Focus on whether the symptom is mood-related or independent of mood episodes.
5. Step 5: Conclude that 'Hallucinations unrelated to mood episodes' is the symptom that does NOT pertain to bipolar disorder, as bipolar disorder symptoms are closely tied to mood episodes.