Case Formulation
Predisposing factors Precipitating factors
- Family history - Triggering event(s)
- Upbringing
- Pre-existing illnesses
Presenting problem
- Current issues
Perpetuating factors
- Worsen the problem
- Triggers problem again
Protective factors - Maintaining cycles
- Strengths & resources
- Prevents problem from
worsening
Case Formulation
Predisposing factors Precipitating factors
- How has your upbringing increased your - What caused the problem to begin?
chances of developing these problems?
- When did it first become a problem?
- Does anyone in your family have similar
problems?
Presenting problem
- What are the problems you are facing?
- How does it affect you?
- How often does it happen?
Perpetuating factors
- What stops the problem from getting better?
- What triggers the problem each time?
Protective factors - What maintaining cycles are there?
- What stops the problem from getting worse?
- What resources (skills, traits, people) do you
have?
Case Formulation (Sample)
Predisposing factors Precipitating factors
- Father was addicted to gambling - Lost job due to COVID
- Father left family when I was 12 - Lost touch with friends from work
- Mother had depression
Presenting problem
- Drinking until blackout drunk 2-4x/week
- Unable to find job
- Feeling down and hopeless
Perpetuating factors
Drink a lot
Sad Hungover
Protective factors
Poor job interview
- Friends from previous workplace supportive
Hang out
- I'm good at problem-solving
at bar Drink
- I want to be a good son
Make
Friends friends
like going at bar
to bar
Case Formulation
Predisposing factors Precipitating factors
Presenting problem
Protective factors Perpetuating factors
BIOPSYCHOSOCIAL MODEL
BIOLOGICAL
Physical conditions
Neurochemistry
Genetics
MENTAL
HEALTH
PSYCHOLOGICAL SOCIAL
Coping skills Social support
Personality School / work
Self-esteem Relationships
Social skills Upbringing
Beliefs Education
BIOPSYCHOSOCIAL MODEL
BIOLOGICAL
Physical conditions
Neurochemistry
Genetics
PSYCHOLOGICAL SOCIAL
Coping skills Social support
Personality School / work
Self-esteem Relationships
Social skills Upbringing
Beliefs Education