Interpersonal Communication Patterns of Bipolar Sufferers in Conveying Messages with Peers

Abstract

This study aims to understand the interpersonal communication experience of adolescents with bipolar disorder in conveying messages to peers. The study used a qualitative approach with a phenomenological method, involving three adolescent informants who were in early adulthood and had a history of bipolar. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach. The results of the study showed that interpersonal communication in bipolar adolescents took place selectively and was highly dependent on the psychosocial context. There are five important elements in effective interpersonal communication based on DeVito's theory, namely openness (self-disclosure), supportive attitude, empathy, positive attitude, and equality. The conclusion of the study confirms that effective interpersonal communication in bipolar adolescents requires a supportive, empathetic, and stigma-free social environment. These findings provide implications for communication approaches in supporting the mental health of adolescents with bipolar disorder.