title: Expected possible selves and coping skills among young and middle-aged adults with bipolar disorder.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This qualitative study explored expected possible selves and coping skills among young and middle-aged adults with bipolar disorder in Hong Kong. Disruptive or positive experiences associated with bipolar disorder can shape the development of the sense of possible selves.
  
  
  METHODS
  Guided by narrative inquiry methodology, 14 Chinese participants (8 women; age range, 22-65 years), recruited from community mental health services and the public, were interviewed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Young participants (18-40 years) elaborated on their expected possible selves as they related to health, work, and family, whereas middle-aged participants (41-65 years) talked about independent possible selves. The participants used problem-focused, emotion-focused, and cultural coping methods to deal with their bipolar disorder and achieve their expected possible selves. Furthermore, the young participants expressed ambivalence towards self-help strategies to manage high mood episodes.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This study not only improves our understanding of possible selves among young and middle-aged adults with bipolar disorder, but also provides information for designing self-help interventions. Limitations of the study along with directions for future research are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Tse
authors.affiliation: Caritas Wellness Link Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong SAR, China.
authors.forename: Y M Y
authors.initials: YM
authors.lastname: Yuen
authors.affiliation: Department of Occupational Sciences and Occupational Therapy, University of British Columbia, Canada.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Suto
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012649:Self Concept; D055815:Young Adult
keywords: Asian continental ancestry group; Bipolar disorder; Mental disorders; Qualitative research