Anxiety Disorders: A Biopsychosocial Model and an Adlerian Approach for Conceptualization and Treatment

Abstract:A biopsychosocial model for anxiety disorders includes an individual's genetics, brain structure, environment, and general thinking patterns to explain etiology, effects on thinking, behaviors, and development of an anxiety disorder. With more individuals seeking mental health treatment and the high prevalence of anxiety disorders among all age groups in the United States, clinicians benefit from being able to recognize the many forms of anxiety and approaches to treatment. There are several evidencebased treatment options; particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, and various "nontraditional" options. An Adlerian approach is unique in that it attempts to give meaning to anxiety and explore its usefulness. For many Adlerian clinicians, anxiety is a result of fearing not belonging, protecting one's feelings of superiority, or feeling defeated in some way, which poses a direction for treatment that differs from mainstream treatment options. This article uses a biopsychosocial model to understand the development of anxiety from birth to adulthood, with a specific emphasis on Adlerian conceptualization and treatment options.