Beyond the biopsychosocial: why psychiatry needs anthropology
Abstract
We propose a bio-psycho-socio-anthropological (BPSA) model that mainstreams cultural formulation and power-aware practice across training, interventions and evaluation. Contrasting it with transcultural and community models, we show UK examples where embedding cultural insight in statutory decisions reduced detentions and improved engagement, aligning with national equality priorities.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Cultural Competency in Health Care
Race
Genetics
and Society
Counseling Practices and Supervision
Publication details
- Journal / source
- The British Journal of Psychiatry
- Publisher
- Royal College of Psychiatrists
- Volume
- 229
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- 259–260
- Publication date
- 23 February 2026
- Language
- EN