Ecological Systems Theory
Introduction
The Ecological Systems Theory is a developmental theory posited by psychologist Urie Bronfenbrenner, which views the individual as developing within a complex system of relationships affected by multiple levels of the surrounding environment. This theory is a key perspective in understanding how different types of environmental systems influence human development.
Theoretical Background
Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory was developed in the mid-20th century in response to the prevailing theories of human development at the time, which Bronfenbrenner felt were too narrow in focus. He argued that to fully understand human development, one must consider the entire ecological system in which growth occurs. This system is composed of five socially organized subsystems that support and guide human growth.
The Five Systems
The ecological systems theory divides the environment into five different levels: the microsystem, the mesosystem, the exosystem, the macrosystem, and the chronosystem.
Microsystem
The microsystem is the smallest and most immediate environment in which the child lives. As such, the microsystem comprises the daily home, school, or daycare life of the child. It is the layer closest to the child and contains the structures with which the child has direct contact.
Mesosystem
The mesosystem involves the relationships between the microsystems in one's life. This could involve the connection between the child’s home and school. The mesosystem is where a person's individual microsystems do not function independently, but are interconnected and assert influence upon one another.
Exosystem
The exosystem is the larger social system in which the child does not function directly. The structures in this layer impact the child's development by interacting with some structure in the child's microsystem.
Macrosystem
The macrosystem involves the culture in which the child lives. This layer involves the broad societal ideologies and patterns that influence the other systems. It includes things like national customs, values, political practices, and economic patterns.
Chronosystem
The chronosystem is the dimension of time in relation to a person's development. The chronosystem encompasses the transitions and shifts in one's lifespan, including any sociohistorical events that occur during that time.
Applications of the Theory
Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory has been applied in numerous fields such as psychology, sociology, anthropology, and public health. It has been used to understand and explain how the environment influences the development and behavior of individuals. The theory has also been instrumental in informing policy and practice in areas such as child welfare, education, and family support services.
Criticisms and Limitations
While the ecological systems theory has been influential in various fields, it has also been subject to criticism. Some critics argue that the theory lacks specificity and does not sufficiently address biological factors or the individual's role in shaping their environment. Others point out that the theory's focus on external factors can lead to an underemphasis on the individual's agency.
Conclusion
Despite these criticisms, Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory remains a valuable tool for understanding the complex interplay of personal and environmental factors that shape human development. By considering the multiple levels of the environment that interact to influence human development, the ecological systems theory provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the myriad influences on human behavior.