In the context of Advanced Placement Psychology, this term denotes a state of abnormally elevated mood, arousal, and energy levels. Individuals experiencing this state may exhibit heightened self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, rapid speech, and impulsive behaviors. For example, an individual might engage in excessive spending sprees, risky sexual encounters, or embark on unrealistic business ventures due to impaired judgment.
Understanding this concept is crucial for comprehending mood disorders, particularly bipolar disorder. Its identification allows for appropriate diagnosis and subsequent intervention strategies, which can significantly improve the quality of life for affected individuals. Historically, recognizing this specific state has evolved from moralistic perspectives to biological and psychological models, shaping contemporary diagnostic criteria and treatment approaches.
