---
title: "Medical Model — AP Psychology Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "The medical model treats psychological disorders as illnesses with biological causes needing diagnosis and treatment. Key for Topic 8.1 and contrasting the biopsychosocial model."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/medical-model"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Psychology"
---

# Medical Model — AP Psychology Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

The medical model is an approach to understanding psychological disorders that views them as illnesses or diseases, and emphasizes the importance of diagnosis, treatment, and potential cure. It focuses on identifying underlying physical or biological causes for psychological symptoms.

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Diagnosis](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/diagnosis): A process of identifying a specific psychological disorder based on observed symptoms and criteria.
- [Treatment](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/treatment): Interventions aimed at alleviating or managing symptoms of psychological disorders.
- [Etiology](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/etiology): The study of the causes or origins of psychological disorders.