psychosocial

Psychosocial refers to the interrelation of social factors and individual psychological processes. It encompasses how social conditions, relationships, culture, economic status, and community resources influence mental health, behavior, and development, as well as how individual functioning affects social interactions and life outcomes.

The term is used across psychology, psychiatry, social work, and public health. It is often framed within integrated models such as the biopsychosocial approach, which posits that biological, psychological, and social factors collectively shape health and illness. The notion has historical roots in developmental psychology and in the work of scholars who emphasized that personal identity and mental well-being are formed through ongoing social experiences. Erik Erikson’s concept of psychosocial development and World Health Organization reports on social determinants of health helped popularize the framing.

In practice, psychosocial considerations guide assessment, treatment, and policy. Clinicians may evaluate psychosocial risk factors—such as adverse childhood experiences, family dynamics, social support, housing stability, and employment status—to inform care plans. Interventions often target both psychological processes (coping strategies, mood, problem-solving) and social conditions (access to services, social networks, community integration).

Common contexts include mental health care, rehabilitative services, disaster response, education, and workplace programs. Psychosocial factors can be protective or risk-enhancing; strong social support and meaningful engagement can bolster resilience, while isolation, discrimination, and poverty can contribute to distress.

Related concepts include psychosocial development, psychosocial rehabilitation, and the biopsychosocial model.