George Engel's 1970s "biopsychosocial model" was a better way to understand which aspect of healthcare?

George Engel's "biopsychosocial model" introduced in the 1970s emphasizes a holistic approach to understanding health and illness by integrating biological, psychological, and social factors. This model significantly contributes to our comprehension of disease expression, as it highlights how not only biological components influence health outcomes but also the psychological and social contexts that shape individuals' experiences of illness.

For instance, the model suggests that a person's mental health, their social relationships, and their environmental context all play crucial roles in how diseases manifest and influence behavior. This is particularly relevant in chronic conditions, where emotional and social support can affect the progression and management of the disease. Engel’s model shifted focus away from a purely biological perspective to a more comprehensive understanding that acknowledges the complex interplay of diverse factors, thereby providing a basis for more effective patient-centered care strategies.