The Networked Computer Metaphor: A Novel Tool for Psychiatric Trainees to Enhance Utility of the Biopsychosocial Model of Health and Illness

The biopsychosocial (BPS) model proposed by George Engel posited that a disease developed through a complex interaction of biological, psychological and social factors. This popular model, despite its limitations, continues to influence the practice and treatment of illness and service delivery worldwide. We propose the networked computer metaphor as a novel and pragmatic tool to help psychiatric trainees appreciate and enhance the utility of the BPS model as it pertains to psychiatric disorders. We also propose that the application of this metaphor would help provide some clues to answer the question of achieving the goal envisioned by Engel of providing holistic and comprehensive patient-centered care. We also discuss the utility of this metaphor from trainee, teacher and patient perspectives and describe various examples of the application of this metaphor so as to deepen our understanding of the BPS model. We discuss the criticisms of this model, summarize the applications of this metaphor and outline future directions for research.