Biopsychosocial (BPS) Model

The Biopsychosocial (BPS) Model is a more comprehensive approach to understanding health and illness by integrating biological, psychological, and social factors. It was developed by George Engel in the 1970s, and first published in 1977 (1), in response to the limitations of a purely biomedical model, which focused almost solely on the biological causes of disease.

Additional Terms:

• Pain Science
• Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE)

For more information on the BPS model in practice (including systematic research reviews):

• Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) is Relatively Ineffective: Research Confirmed
• False Narratives, Nocebo, and Negative Expectations do NOT affect Manual Therapy Outcomes: Research Confirmed

Components of the Biopsychosocial (BPS) Model

Biological Factors

• Tissue Health: Damage or lack of damage of tissues.
• Infections: Presence of pathogens or diseases like influenza or COVID-19.
• Physiology: Immune system function, hormone levels, cardiovascular health.
• Genetics: Family history of diseases like diabetes or cancer.
• Neurology: Brain structure and function, neurotransmitter imbalances (e.g., in depression or anxiety).
• Nutrition: Dietary intake, deficiencies, or imbalances (e.g., vitamin D, iron).
• Physical Health: Chronic conditions (e.g., arthritis, hypertension), injuries, or disabilities.
• Medications and Treatments: Pharmaceuticals, surgery, and other physical interventions.

Psychological Factors

• Cognition: Beliefs, attitudes, and perceptions about health or illness.
• Emotions: Stress, anxiety, depression, and emotional resilience.
• Behavior Patterns: Lifestyle choices, such as exercise, smoking, or substance use.
• Coping Strategies: Adaptive or maladaptive strategies for managing stress.
• Motivation: Readiness to change, adherence to treatment plans, or engagement in preventive behaviors.
• Personality: Traits like optimism, resilience, or neuroticism.

Social Factors

• Socioeconomic Status: Income, education, and occupation influencing access to care.
• Social Support: Relationships with family, friends, and community.
• Cultural Norms: Health beliefs, practices, and stigma within cultural or religious contexts.
• Environment: Living conditions, access to clean water, safe housing, and food security.
• Healthcare Access: Availability and quality of medical services.
• Workplace and School: Stressors, demands, and opportunities for activity or rest.
• Policy and Public Health: Laws and resources affecting health, like smoking bans or vaccination programs.

1. Engel, George L. "The need for a new medical model: a challenge for biomedicine." Science 196.4286 (1977): 129-136.