Circle of Security
Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological System is a theory that suggests the development of an individual is impacted by a variety of environments, all of which are intertwined and co-dependent (Guy-Evans, 2024). This theory is incredibly relevant in early childhood development as the systems within a child’s life are massively influential; therefore, should a child be supported by many systems it can be presumed their growth and development will be positively benefited.
So let’s take a deeper look at this theory. There are 6 systems within the theory, those being:
The Individual: This is the child.
Microsystem: This is a child’s friends, family, neighbours - these things are things directly impacting the child, and things / people who have direct contact with the child frequently. An example of this would be a family who frequently has friends visit, and are actively involved in the growing up of the child.
Mesosystem: This is the when a child’s Microsystem supports are interconnected (example: a child who’s parents are active members of the child’s school community would have positive impacts)
Exosystem: This is when something impacts the child, without having direct contact (example: the local government of the area you live in has not been up-keeping the environment at the local park; therefore, the social experiences and physical activity possibilities the children within this area have is significantly less.
Macrosystem: This is all about the cultural impacts that impact a childs journey. They could be things like cultural ideologies, gender norms etc. Example: we live in a society whereby it is expected that everyone live harmoniously; therefore, a child may feel the need to not express themselves truly in order to adhere to these unspoken social norms.
Chronosystem: These are shifts / periods of time that impact a childs life, over a longer duration. Things included are economic recession, internet shifts and social media and global pandemics. Example: the global pandemic impacted the story of many children’s lives. For babies born around 2020 they grew up spending more time inside etc, for children in school they navigated online learning and for elderly people changes occurred with things transitioning to online etc.
So thinking to your own family, reflect upon how this model has shaped your family unit? Is there any systems that don’t have an impact on your child? Do some systems impact your family more than others?
Every child’s ecological system is going to be different and no two stories are the same; however, as parents we hold a level of responsibility to ensure that the influences around our child are as positive as possible, and whilst some things are out of our control, other’s aren’t.
In your control: Your child’s relationship with youThe impact of your child’s Mesosystem: Can you as a parent further collaboration with people within your childs microsystem? Example: Can you discuss work from home capabilities with your employer to allow you 1 day a week at home with your child?The protection you are offering your child in regards to their online security
Out of your control: If immediate family refuses to support you and your child.
The impact the global events have on your child: economic recessions and world pandemics
References:
Guy, Evans. (O). 2024. Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory. Simply Psychology. https://www.simplypsychology.org/bronfenbrenner.html