Goal Dysregulation in Depression, Mania, and Schizophrenia

Abstract

This chapter addresses goal dysregulation in the mood disorders and schizophrenia. A large body of basic research has considered goal regulation mechanisms that support the pursuit of reward. This chapter outlines some components of goal regulation, their relevance for emotion, and some ways in which goal regulation can go awry. It begins by providing an overview of normative goal regulation processes and how these relate to emotion. Then, we discuss models and evidence concerning goal dysregulation across psychopathologies (depression, mania, and schizophrenia). The chapter concludes with a discussion of clinical implications of this work, unaddressed issues, and future directions.