One Of The Most Well-Known Systems Theories In Psycho 630520

One Of The Most Well Known Systems Theories In Psychology Is Bronfenbr

One of the most well-known systems theories in psychology is Bronfenbrenner’s ecological model. The model consists of several interrelated systems, beginning with the individual at the center then expanding to include the individual’s immediate family and friends (microsystem); extended family, school, and work (exosystem); and culture and society as a whole (macrosystem). This model can be used as a framework to understand human development and behavior and to design effective interventions to address many different psychological and societal issues. Consider how this model might be applied to better understand the development and behaviors of a transgender teenager. Suppose the teenager, who now calls herself Shelly, has recently informed her parents and close friends that she would like to officially transition to being a girl.

Initially she is overjoyed that her parents and close friends are supportive (microsystem). Then, after attending school for a week and going to a family reunion dressed as a girl, Shelly is met with harsh criticisms from some of her peers and teachers at school as well as her grandparents (exosystem). In fact, she overhears her parents and grandparents arguing about her transition and is immediately overcome by guilt and despair. Finally, while she is encouraged by positive media regarding a celebrity who recently transitioned, she is saddened to learn that the larger public opinion and recent government policies are discriminatory to transgendered persons (macrosystem). Therefore, due to her desire to become accepted at school, by her grandparents, and by society at large, she decides to stop her transition even though it causes her great distress to do so.

This example illustrates the complex and competing pressures among the systems of Bronfenbrenner’s model, which can affect the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of the individual at the center of the model. In this discussion, you will consider how the model applies to the competing pressures in your own life. To prepare, read the article, General systems theory: Its past and potential. Pay particular attention to how von Bertalanffy’s general system theory originated and evolved and how the author of the article characterizes the terms, “systems,” “structures,” and “relations.” Review Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Model, located in this week’s learning resources. Focus on the meaning and interrelationships among the microsystem, exosystem, and macrosystem from a child’s perspective.

Consider how these systems would be generalized to apply to an adult. Using Bronfenbrenner’s model, identify two out of three systems (microsystem, exosystem, macrosystem) and their settings (school, work, family gatherings, neighborhood, country, etc.). Think about how demands and expectations in one setting might impact your ability to meet demands and expectations in another setting. By Day 3, post a response to the following: Identify the two systems you chose and describe settings within each system that influence your life and behavior/activity. Then explain how demands and expectations in one setting could impact your ability to meet demands and expectations in another setting. Be specific. Note: support your postings and responses with specific references to the learning resources and any additional sources you identify using in-text citations and references. It is strongly recommended that you include proper APA format and citations.

Paper For Above instruction

The ecological systems theory by Bronfenbrenner provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how various environmental systems influence human development and behavior. Applying this model to both childhood and adulthood reveals the complex interplay between individual experiences and broader societal factors. This paper focuses on two systems— the microsystem and the macrosystem— and explores how their settings impact personal life and behavior, particularly emphasizing how demands and expectations in one setting can influence experiences in another.

Microsystem and Its Influence

The microsystem encompasses the immediate environments where an individual interacts directly, such as family, peer groups, workplace, and educational settings (Bronfenbrenner, 1979). For example, one's family plays a crucial role in shaping beliefs, attitudes, and emotional development. In my own life, family gatherings and interactions with close friends serve as significant microsystem settings. Family expectations regarding career choices or personal values often influence my decision-making processes, self-esteem, and emotional well-being (Vygotsky, 1978). Similarly, peer interactions at work or social settings impact daily behavior and social skills development.

In the workplace, colleagues' attitudes and organizational culture can shape behavior, productivity, and job satisfaction. For instance, a supportive supervisor who encourages professional growth fosters a positive work environment, while a toxic work culture can lead to stress and disengagement (Bronfenbrenner, 1979). Likewise, familial expectations regarding life choices, such as educational attainment or lifestyle, influence individuals’ goals and perceptions of self-worth. These microsystem settings are dynamic and affect each other; high family stress may reflect or influence interpersonal relationships at work, illustrating interconnected microsystem influences.

Macrosystem and Its Impact

The macrosystem comprises broader societal and cultural influences, including cultural norms, laws, policies, and societal attitudes (Bronfenbrenner, 1979). These macro-level factors shape individual experiences indirectly but powerfully. For example, societal expectations regarding gender roles and cultural values influence personal identity and social interactions. In my experience, societal attitudes towards mental health and mental illness, as shaped by media, laws, and public policies, impact how openly individuals seek psychological help and discuss personal struggles (Sue et al., 2019).

Economic policies and cultural norms in different countries affect opportunities and societal support systems, thereby influencing personal and communal development. A social climate that stigmatizes mental health issues may hinder access to care and affect well-being, impacting life in various microsystem settings such as family and workplace. These macro-level influences create a backdrop against which individuals formulate personal attitudes and behaviors, demonstrating their profound impact.

Interplay and Impact of Demands and Expectations

Demands and expectations in one setting often spill over into others, influencing one's ability to meet varied social, personal, and professional demands. For example, workplace expectations for high productivity and performance can conflict with familial responsibilities or personal health needs. If an individual is expected to work long hours to meet organizational goals, this may diminish time available for family interactions or self-care (Greenhaus & Allen, 2011). Such conflicts exemplify how pressures in the exosystem (work) can affect behavior within microsystem settings like family life.

Similarly, societal expectations derived from the macrosystem, such as cultural norms about gender roles or social behaviors, may influence personal choices and interactions. For instance, societal stigma toward mental health could discourage individuals from seeking support, thereby complicating efforts to fulfill personal or familial obligations (Vogel et al., 2014). These interconnected demands highlight the importance of understanding the broader contextual influences that shape individual behavior.

Conclusion

Bronfenbrenner’s ecological model underscores the interconnectedness of various environmental systems influencing human behavior. By examining the microsystem and macrosystem in my own life, it becomes evident how demands and expectations in one setting can significantly impact experiences and behaviors in others. Recognizing these influences allows for better understanding and management of the complexities involved in personal development and social functioning, ultimately fostering more effective interventions and supportive environments.

References

• Bronfenbrenner, U. (1979). The ecology of human development: Experiments by nature and design. Harvard University Press.
• Greenhaus, J. H., & Allen, T. D. (2011). Work-family balance: A review and extension of the literature. Journal of Management, 37(1), 99-130.
• Sue, D. W., Savoy, H. B., & Holder, T. (2019). Microaggressions and mental health: A review of current literature. Current Psychology, 38(3), 743-750.
• Vogel, D. L., Wade, N. G., & Hackler, A. H. (2014). Perceived stigma and mental health treatment seeking among college students. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 61(4), 506-517.
• Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes. Harvard University Press.