Human Growth and Development

Ecological Systems Theory Urie Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory explains how a child’s development is shaped by different environmental layers, from immediate family interactions to broader societal influences. Five Environmental Layers of Development 1.​ Microsystem (Direct Environment) ●​ The innermost layer , where children have direct interactions with their family, school, daycare, and peer groups . ●​ These interactions are bidirectional —children influence their environment, and their environment shapes them. ●​ Example: A child with supportive parents may develop confidence, while a difficult temperament in a child may lead to different parenting strategies. 2.​ Mesosystem (Connections Between Microsystems) ●​ The interactions between different microsystems , such as family, school, and peer groups. ●​ Example: A strong parent-teacher relationship creates a consistent and supportive learning environment. 3.​ Exosystem (Indirect Influences) ●​ Settings that do not directly involve the child but still impact development, such as a parent’s workplace. ●​ Example: A parent’s job stress may create tension at home, affecting the child’s emotional well-being. 4.​ Macrosystem (Cultural and Societal Factors) ●​ Broad influences , such as economic conditions, political systems, and cultural values, shape child development. ●​ Example: In societies that value education, schools may receive more funding, improving learning opportunities. 5.​ Chronosystem (The Role of Time) ●​ Considers how time and life events influence development. ●​ Example: A child born before or after 9/11 may grow up with different worldviews due to historical events.

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