This is becoming an interesting conversation.

As this was a generalized question about a condition that has many facets, it is impossible to pinpoint a "yes or no" answer.

As what I posted is MY generalized opinion, let me expand.

I agree with one post. If you are predisposed, for whatever reason, to criminal behavior, I won't deny that dealing with bipolar will make it more difficult to keep yourself in check.

So, let's ask this:

If one feels that bipolar is contributing to criminal behavior, what led to the criminal behavior in the first place?

1. Is one in a Manic State? Is that person feeling "King of the World" with thinking "No one can stop me" despite knowing the act is criminal? Is one making a choice to ignore that warning of "this isn't right" or does that person really not understand at the time that what they are doing is wrong?

2. Is one in a Depressive State? Are they just so far down in their depression that they don't care if they get caught or not? Are they doing it looking for a way to feel better about themselves?

3. A comment was brought up about psychosis. AS I UNDERSTAND IT, Bipolar Psychosis can cause a break with reality. I am not condoning criminal activity in this state, but I can see how this break with reality can contribute as one may not even realize what they are doing is wrong.

So, I guess it depends, IMO, on the actual state. Is one performing criminal activity without regard for realizing what they are doing is wrong, but continuing anyway, or are they in full blown psychosis and just do not realize it.