Therapeutic models of psychopathology. Part I: Introduction, overview of the model, and personality organization

Part I of this paper introduces an integrated model of psychopathology that may be used as a guide for formulating a more specific model for patients in psychotherapy. This model considers the influence of biological and environmental factors in development, as well as the influence of the current environment on the psychological structure of the adult. It is compatible with a broader biological context and with current scientific thinking about the functioning of the human mind. Key principles in the development and functioning of the psychological organization of the individual are introduced. The central concept of Psychological Organization and the major dimensions of motivation, models of self and other, and information processing are discussed in detail.