Using the biopsychosocial model to predict sense of community for persons with serious mental illness

Abstract

Background

Sense of community (SOC) is paramount for persons with serious mental illness (SMI) to achieve the goals of psychiatric rehabilitation (PsyR): recovery, community integration and quality of life (QOL). This study provides a thorough understanding of the predictors of SOC by using the biopsychosocial model as the conceptual framework.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed biopsychosocial model of SOC among persons with SMI.

Method

Hierarchical regression analysis was used to understand the overall prediction model of SOC, as well as the unique contribution of the biological, psychological and social factors on SOC.

Results

Results of the study provide empirical support for using the biopsychosocial model in understanding SOC for persons with SMI.

Conclusions

This study informs PsyR professionals on how to provide effective PsyR services to improve SOC for persons with SMI, such as self-efficacy promotion and social support provision.

Keywords:

• Sense of community
• biopsychosocial model
• serious mental illness
• self-efficacy
• social support

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.