Bioecological Approach to Development

Synonyms

Bronfenbrenner’s theory; Ecological theory; Multisystemic influences

Definition

Urie Bronfenbrenner’s Bioecological Approach to Development emphasizes the complex interactions between multiple systems of influence on individuals’ development. These influences range from biological, individual, family, peers, and media, to cultural and historical forces that impact how we change over time.

Description

Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Theory [1] is considered by many to be one of the most important organizing frameworks in the field of developmental psychology. This perspective emphasizes the individual’s interactions within a series of larger systemic influences, from family, peers, neighbors and teachers, to schools, media, institutions, culture, and the relative “chronosystem,” or time period of development.

In light of recent neuroscience and behavior genetics research illustrating the importance of biological influences on human interactions in families, Bronfenbrenner further...