The Electroencephalogram in Manic-Depressive Psychosis

Abstract

The main object of this investigation is to verify the claim of Pauline Davis (1941) that manic-depressive depressed psychotics (M.D.D.s) tend to possess frequencies of alpha rhythm in the E.E.G. at 10 c./sec. or slower, whilst manic-depressive manic patients (M.D.M.s) tend to show alpha frequencies at 10 c./sec. or faster; furthermore that there is no shift in alpha frequency corresponding to change in psychotic phase or in degree of phase. These claims are of importance in relation to a recent paper by Mundy-Castle (1951b) in which a significant correlation was reported between ratings of the Heymans-Wiersma temperament variable secondary function and mean frequencies of alpha rhythm in normal adults, since both Heymans (1929) and Wiersma (1932) maintained that M.D.D.s possessed a high degree of secondary function and M.D.M.s a low degree of this variable. To explain this in more detail, secondary function is postulated as being present in individuals in different degrees varying over a continuous scale ranging from domination of the conscious field by secondary function to domination by primary experience (relative lack of secondary function). Individuals displaying the former may be referred to as secondary functioning, their behaviour being characterized by steadiness of action, continuity of interest, evenness of mood and psychic tempo, reduced stimulability and a tendency for mental events to perseverate. Individuals in whom secondary function is relatively lacking (it can never be wholly absent) may be termed primary functioning, their behaviour being characterized by impulsiveness, mobility, high stimulability and a quick and variable psychic tempo. The Heymans-Wiersma temperament scheme has been developed extensively by Biesheuvel (1935, 1949). Mundy-Castle's study revealed that subjects rated as secondary functioning possessed low alpha frequencies whilst those rated as primary functioning possessed high alpha frequencies. The present investigation should help to elucidate the view of Heymans and Wiersma concerning secondary function and manic-depressive psychosis.