Bronfenbrenner's ecological theory short detailed summary
Bronfenbrenner's ecological theory, also known as the bioecological model, is a theoretical framework that explains how different environmental systems influence an individual's development. The theory suggests that a person's development is shaped by multiple layers of influence, including the immediate environment (microsystem), the interactions between different settings (mesosystem), the broader societal context (exosystem), and the cultural beliefs and values of the individual's society (macrosystem). Additionally, the theory recognizes the importance of time and historical context in shaping development. Overall, Bronfenbrenner's ecological theory emphasizes the importance of considering the various environmental factors that can impact an individual's development and the interconnectedness of these factors.
Bronfenbrenner's ecological theory, also known as the ecological systems theory, is a psychological and sociological theory that explains human development and behavior within the context of various environmental systems. It was proposed by Urie Bronfenbrenner, a renowned developmental psychologist.
According to Bronfenbrenner, an individual's development is influenced by multiple interconnected environmental systems, referred to as "microsystems," "mesosystems," "exosystems," and "macrosystems." These systems interact with each other and play significant roles in shaping a person's development.
The microsystem is the immediate environment that directly influences an individual, such as family, peers, school, and neighborhood. It includes the personal relationships, experiences, and interactions that have a direct impact on the individual's development.
The mesosystem represents the interactions between different microsystems an individual is a part of. For instance, the connection between a child's family and school or between their peer group and community. These connections can either be supportive or conflicting, affecting the individual's development.
The exosystem refers to external systems that indirectly affect an individual, such as the parent's workplace or community resources. Although the individual may not interact directly with these systems, changes or events occurring in the exosystem can have a significant impact on their development.
The macrosystem represents the broader cultural, social, and ideological factors that shape an individual's environment. This includes societal values, laws, customs, and economic conditions. The macrosystem influences all the other systems in Bronfenbrenner's theory.
Lastly, Bronfenbrenner introduced the concept of chronosystem to address the impact of time and change on an individual's development. It recognizes that individuals develop in a dynamic and evolving context, and the influence of different systems can vary over time.
In summary, Bronfenbrenner's ecological theory proposes that an individual's development is influenced by multiple environmental systems that interact with each other. These systems range from immediate relationships and interactions (microsystem) to broader cultural and societal factors (macrosystem). The theory emphasizes the importance of understanding the complex interactions between these systems to gain a comprehensive understanding of human development.