Overview
This lecture explains how a child's development is shaped by their social relationships and environment using Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory, which identifies five interacting levels of influence.
Ecological Systems Theory Overview
- Ecological Systems Theory was developed by Urie Bronfenbrenner.
- The theory divides a child's environment into five levels: microsystem, mesosystem, exosystem, macrosystem, and chronosystem.
- Each level represents different influences on a child’s development.
The Five Levels of Ecological Systems
Microsystem
- The microsystem is the closest environment to the child, involving direct interactions.
- Examples include home, school, daycare, and relationships with family, peers, or caregivers.
- Relationships are bidirectional; the child's actions influence others and vice versa.
- The microsystem has the strongest influence on the child's development.
Mesosystem
- The mesosystem consists of interactions between different parts of the child's microsystem.
- For example, relationships between parents and teachers.
- Harmonious interactions in the mesosystem positively impact development; conflict can negatively affect it.
Exosystem
- The exosystem involves settings the child does not directly participate in but that still affect them.
- An example is a parent's workplace and decisions made there.
- Events in the exosystem influence the child indirectly, such as increased anxiety if a parent travels for work.
Macrosystem
- The macrosystem is the broader cultural and societal environment.
- This includes economic status, cultural values, and political systems.
- Living in different countries or growing up in a military family are examples that impact development.
Chronosystem
- The chronosystem refers to the dimension of time in development.
- Timing of life events (e.g., loss of a parent at different ages) can have varied effects.
- Historical context (e.g., technological era, economic conditions) also shapes development.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Ecological Systems Theory — A model explaining how different environmental layers influence a child's development.
- Microsystem — Immediate environment and direct interactions (family, school).
- Mesosystem — Interconnections between microsystems (e.g., parent-teacher relationships).
- Exosystem — Indirect environments that affect the child (e.g., parent's workplace).
- Macrosystem — Broader social, cultural, and economic context.
- Chronosystem — Influence of time, life events, and historical context on development.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the five systems and prepare examples from your own life or case studies.
- Reflect on how each system may influence development for future discussions.