Biopsychosocial Model

The biopsychosocial model is a holistic framework for understanding health and disability that considers the interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors in a person's experience. In contrast to the medical model (which focuses on biological deficits) and the social model (which focuses on environmental barriers), the biopsychosocial model addresses the multidimensional reality of living with a disability or chronic condition. In assistive technology design, this framework argues that technology should support not only physical or cognitive function but also emotional wellbeing, social relationships, personal identity, and autonomy. The model has been particularly influential in dementia care, where it emphasizes empathy, therapeutic relationships, and dialogue over purely clinical management of symptoms.