Last week, we looked at the biological and psychological components of and considered centrality within the dynamic biopsychosocial model. This week we continue by looking at interpersonal and contextual dynamics.

Interpersonal dynamics:

Interpersonal dynamics include the effects of actual or perceived social contacts on health (based on Bronfenbrenner’s 1979 ecological model), and refer to the impact of social contacts on health, including direct contacts with others and their actions. For example, medical advice may spread through formal or informal networks, and information shared with the misconception that it applies universally.

For example, One family member may say to another family member or friend, “when my horse had that issue and the vet came out, he/she did this and told me to do this…” This information is shared with the misconception that what was done by the vet for one horse may be similarly translated across to another horse (based purely on the ‘diagnosis’ of the family member and not on the vet actually seeing that horse and assessing individually).  Or, family members and horse community members may share information gained on social media (which may detrimentally impact a horse’s health).

Interpersonal dynamics between animals and their owners can impact the animal’s health and behaviour. Positive relationships can reduce stress and promote resilience, while negative relationships can lead to stress, anxiety, and health problems. Herd or household dynamics, such as size and composition, can also affect interpersonal relationships and health. Social isolation can negatively affect animals’ relationships and health.

Contextual dynamics:

Contextual dynamics, which includes shared cultural norms, policies, legislation, and values, can impact an animal’s health and welfare. For example, a horse or dog’s training style can be influenced by the beliefs and norms of the community, such as the concept of being the alpha leader. However, training styles are evolving due to increased awareness of a horse or dog’s behaviours, body language, and learning styles. Owner education is crucial in this regard. Changes in legislation and policies can also impact an animal’s health and welfare, and the Five Freedoms are a globally recognized set of animal welfare standards that can be considered.

As osteopaths, we take a holistic approach towards horses, which aligns with the dynamic biopsychosocial model. This means that we acknowledge the animal as a biologically and ecologically unified entity, and understand that each of its systems is connected through the neuroendocrine and circulatory systems. We believe that health is not a fixed state, but rather an ongoing process that is continuously influenced by various factors and their interactions at any given time. Therefore, our assessment and treatment methods are always tailored to the unique needs of each individual animal. We work to support the animal’s innate health, find balance, and restore homeostasis.