BEHAVIOUR SCIENCE
ASSIGNMENT NO 1
Submitted to: Dr. Maryum
Submitted by: Esha Noor
Roll no: 20260107
Department : BS MLT
Date: 9th March,2026
TOPIC:
BIOPSYCOSOCAIL MODEL AND THEIR CASE STUDIES
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Biopsychosocial Model
The Biopsychosocial Model is a holistic approach to understanding health and illness. It explains
that disease is not caused by biological factors alone, but also by psychological and social
factors. This model was proposed by George L. Engel in 1977 as an alternative to the traditional
biomedical model.
Definition
The biopsychosocial model states that health and illness are the result of the interaction between:
1. Biological factors
2. Psychological factors
3. Social factors
All three components work together to influence a person’s overall health.
Components of the Biopsychosocial Model
1. Biological Factors
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These include physical and genetic aspects of the body.
Examples:
• Genetic predisposition
• Hormonal imbalance
• Infection or injury
• Neurochemical changes
• Chronic diseases (diabetes, hypertension)
Example: A patient with a family history of depression may have a higher biological risk
of developing depression.
2. Psychological Factors
These involve mental and emotional aspects.
Examples:
• Stress
• Personality traits
• Coping skills
• Trauma
• Beliefs and attitudes
Example: A person with poor coping skills may develop anxiety during stressful life
events.
3. Social Factors
These include environmental and social influences.
Examples:
• Family relationships
• Socioeconomic status
• Education
• Cultural beliefs
• Social support
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Example: Lack of family support may worsen a patient’s recovery from illness.
Importance of the Biopsychosocial Model
• Provides holistic patient care
• Improves doctor–patient communication
• Helps in better diagnosis and treatment planning
• Encourages multidisciplinary treatment approach
• Focuses on prevention and rehabilitation
The Four Ps of Case Formation
1. Predisposing Factors
These are background factors that make a person more vulnerable to developing a
psychological problem.
Examples:
Genetic vulnerability to mental illness
Childhood trauma or neglect
Personality traits (e.g., perfectionism)
Long-term stress in family or environment
Early learning experiences
In simple terms:
They explain “Why this person might be at risk.”
2. Precipitating Factors
These are recent events or triggers that caused the problem to start.
Examples:
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Relationship breakup
Job loss or academic failure
Physical illness
Major life change (moving, divorce, death of a loved one)
In simple terms:
They explain “Why the problem started now.”
3. Perpetuating Factors
These are factors that keep the problem going or make it worse over time.
Examples:
Avoidance behaviors
Negative thinking patterns
Substance use
Lack of social support
Ongoing stress
In simple terms:
They explain “Why the problem continues.”
4. Protective Factors
These are strengths and supports that help the person cope or recover.
Examples:
Supportive family or friends
Good coping skills
Motivation for treatment
Access to therapy or resources
Positive personality traits (resilience, optimism)
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Case Studies
Case 1: Depression in a University Student
Patient: 20-year-old female student
Biological Factors:
• Family history of depression
• Sleep disturbance
Psychological Factors:
• Exam stress
• Low self-esteem
• Negative thinking
Social Factors:
• Financial problems
• Lack of family support
• Academic pressure
Conclusion:
Depression developed due to interaction of genetic vulnerability, psychological stress, and social
pressure.
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Case 2: Type 2 Diabetes
Patient: 45-year-old male
Biological Factors:
• Obesity
• Family history of diabetes
• Insulin resistance
Psychological Factors:
• Emotional eating
• Stress at work
• Poor motivation
Social Factors:
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Unhealthy diet culture
• Low socioeconomic status
Conclusion:
Diabetes developed due to biological predisposition combined with lifestyle habits and social
environment.
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Case 3: Hypertension
Patient: 50-year-old businesswoman
Biological Factors:
• Genetic tendency
• High cholesterol
Psychological Factors:
• Chronic stress
• Anxiety
Social Factors:
• Work pressure
• Lack of exercise
• Poor social support
Conclusion:
Hypertension resulted from biological risk factors along with long-term psychological stress and
environmental influences.
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Comparison with Biomedical Model
Biomedical Model Biopsychosocial Model
Focuses only on biological causes Focuses on biological, psychological & social
causes
Treats disease only Treats whole person
Limited view Holistic approach
Advantages
• Patient-centered approach
• Encourages teamwork (doctor, psychologist, social worker)
• Better long-term outcomes
• Promotes mental health awareness
Disadvantages
• Time-consuming
• Requires multidisciplinary team
• Can be complex to apply
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Conclusion
The Biopsychosocial Model provides a comprehensive understanding of health and illness. It
recognizes that physical health cannot be separated from mental and social well-being. This
model is widely used in modern medicine, psychology, and nursing practice to provide holistic
and effective patient care.
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