IPT Model of Interpersonal Problems as Precipitating and Maintaining Factors in Psychopathology. External and developmental factors, along with stable interpersonal tendencies, contribute to development of a central interpersonal problem in one of the four areas. This problem increases interpersonal stress and undermines social supports, which, partly through difficulties with emotions, precipitate and maintain episodes of psychiatric disorder. Bi-directional line portrays the reciprocal effects of psychiatric symptoms and interpersonal problems and patterns.