Biopsychosocial

Theory: Biopsychosocial

Theorist: George Engel

Focus: The biopsychosocial theory focuses on the implications that biological, psychological, and social factors have on health and wellness, and how these factors interact.

Strengths: The biopsychosocial method is useful because it addresses the wide array of factors and influences that impact physical and mental health, whereas other methods focus mainly on one factor or influence.

Weaknesses: The biopsychosocial method can be faulty in its inherent difficulty of balance the importance and impact of each factor as well as how changes in each realm can affect the others.

Techniques: There are many useful techniques for this method. The main idea is to instill the practice of self-management in the client. This means that they are able to identify what factors of their health are in need of attention and may be causing wellness issues. Some focus on the physical and biological aspect, such as breathing techniques, yoga and meditation. Techniques geared toward the psychological aspect include identifying issues such as negative thought patterns, self-control struggles, and emotional issues.

Personal example: While living on campus at Brandeis University, I found myself very stressed and anxious because of the intensity of my classes. I addressed my stress by tending to my physical needs by eating a healthy, balanced, diet, as well as exercising regularly. I also started practicing meditation to clear my mind and address my mental health. I addressed my social needs by making sure that I did not isolate myself in my room pouring over chemistry books, and balanced my studying habits with socializing and enjoying my friends. By being mindful of all aspects of my well-being and addressing the needs that stood out to me, I significantly improved my physical and mental health.