George Engel

George Engel was an American psychiatrist and physician best known for his development of the biopsychosocial model of health care in the 1970s. This model emphasizes that health and illness are influenced not just by biological factors, but also by psychological and social aspects. Engel argued that understanding a patient's overall context—including their emotions, relationships, and social environment—is essential for effective treatment. His approach encourages healthcare professionals to consider the whole person rather than just their physical symptoms, reshaping how clinicians interact with and care for patients. Engel's ideas have significantly influenced modern medicine and mental health care.