Topic > Compare and Contrast the Biomedical Model of Health

This model believes that an individual can be free from physical illness or injury, however the social factors surrounding a person will determine their well-being. In the social dimension of health a person must be able to interact with other people, such as friends and family. According to Antonia C. Lyons and Kerry Chamberlain (2006) Health Psychology a Critical Introduction "studies have demonstrated an association between what is called social integration and physical health, including mortality rates." The ability to build healthy relationships can give an individual a positive self-image. Poor social skills can mean that an individual may become isolated or stressed. If an individual becomes stressed and isolated, they will not have illnesses as they will be physically and mentally fit, however stress will contribute to the individual's health status. According to Charles L. Sheridan and Sally A. Radmacher (1992), health psychology challenges the biomedical model “attributes such as strength, health and attractiveness can be useful in addressing problems