Disease Model in Psychiatry

The disease model in psychiatry utilizes a biopsychosocial (BPS) conceptualization in understanding human functioning. Previously, the accepted ideology in treating psychiatric illness pertained to a biomedical view of human functioning. A psychiatric illness was conceptualized, and focus was placed solely on the biological factors that may be causing the individual’s suffering, omitting other factors such as psychological, social, and environmental issues. The BPS model is used to better understand humans and their behaviors by incorporating the biological, psychological, and social factors that are present in a person’s life that may affect his or her current functioning. The biological aspect incorporates the physical aspects of human functioning (physical health and genetics). The psychological aspect incorporates the psychological factors that affect functioning (coping skills and self-esteem). The ...