What does the biopsychosocial model describe?

• A. A model of health that integrates biological, behavioral, and social factors on health and illness
• B. A model focusing only on biological determinants of illness
• C. A model emphasizing environmental determinants only
• D. A model describing episodic acute care management

Answer: (A)

The biopsychosocial model describes health and illness as the result of the interplay between biological factors, psychological processes, and social context. It recognizes that genes, physiology, and disease interact with thoughts, emotions, behaviors, coping strategies, and relationships, as well as with environmental influences like culture, support networks, and access to care. This holistic view helps explain why people with the same medical condition can have different symptoms and outcomes and guides care that addresses medical treatment along with mental health and social barriers. It’s broader than focusing only on biology or only on the environment and isn’t about episodic acute care management.