A Biopsychosocial Framework for Sport Science: “A Jack of All Trades Is Oftentimes Better Than a Master of One.”

In his seminal work nearly half a century ago, psychiatrist George L. Engel advocated for a paradigm shift in medical thinking, proposing the biopsychosocial (BPS) model to integrate biomedical, psychological, and social factors in understanding health. While widely embraced in general medicine and psychology, the application of this holistic framework remains surprisingly underutilized in sport science. This article argues that sport science could significantly benefit from a BPS approach that integrates diverse disciplines like physiology, psychology, biomechanics, and sociology.

Here are the key points and takeaways:

Origin and Concept of BPS Framework: George L. Engel proposed the biopsychosocial model as a departure from the purely biomedical approach to understanding health and disease. He argued for integrating biomedical, psychological, and social factors to provide a more holistic view of human health.

Application to Sport Science: This article suggests that while the BPS model has been widely adopted in general medicine and psychology, its integration into sport science has been limited. Sport science, which inherently deals with human performance, could greatly benefit from a BPS approach due to its emphasis on both quantitative (biomechanics, physiology) and qualitative (psychology, sociology) aspects.

Interdisciplinary Approach: Sport science traditionally compartmentalizes disciplines like physiology, psychology, biomechanics, and sociology. However, effective understanding of sport performance requires an interdisciplinary approach that combines these disciplines. This integration is crucial for developing a comprehensive understanding of athletes as complex systems.

Challenges and Opportunities: Embracing interdisciplinary research in sport science faces challenges such as academic traditions favoring specialization. However, this article argues that overcoming these challenges is essential for addressing the multifaceted demands of performance sport and improving research applicability.

Practical Implications: To enhance sport-science research and practice, the article advocates for:

• Developing scientific methods that accommodate interdisciplinary research.
• Encouraging a shift in academic mindset towards recognizing the value of interdisciplinary approaches.
• Promoting integration of biological, psychological, and sociological factors in sport-performance settings to improve practical outcomes.

Future Directions: This article calls for defining and implementing a BPS framework in sport science, supported by appropriate research methods and recognition within academic and professional communities. This includes disseminating such research through platforms that promote interdisciplinary dialogue and application, like specialized journals.