Urie Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory and Case Study Analysis

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers Urie Bronfenbrenner's five ecological systems (Micro, Meso, Exo, Macro, and Chrono) and key concepts related to environmental risks and protective factors identified in the lecture's case study.

Ecological Systems Theory

A theory by Urie Bronfenbrenner highlighting the significance of focusing on an individual's development-in-context of their environment and how these environments shape behavior throughout the lifespan.

Development-in-context

The principle that development is influenced by the surrounding ecological system and that individuals contribute to the construction of their environment rather than being mere recipients of experiences.

Microsystem

The direct environment in an individual's life involving direct social interactions with social agents such as family, friends, classmates, teachers, and neighbors.

Mesosystem

The system involving relationships between the microsystems in one's life, characterized by a formal structure, mission, and policies (e.g., schools, businesses, clinics, or gangs).

Exosystem

A set of mesosystems or microsystems where individuals participate mainly through smaller entities, such as geographical areas (rural/urban) or health services, and seldom influence the wider community directly.

Macrosystem

The larger level of analysis that forms the context for other levels, influencing them through policies, legislation, social norms, economic climates, and belief systems.

Chronosystem

The system incorporating change or constancy throughout the lifespan, representing the passing of time as it influences development across all systemic levels.

Normalization of Crime

A phenomenon occurring in high-crime communities where repeated exposure to violence leads to the acceptance of gang lifestyles as a standard part of the immediate social environment.

Restriction of Movement

A theme identified as an effect of repeated exposure to violent crime, where safety concerns limit an individual's ability to navigate their community freely.

Breakdown of Systems

The failure or closure of essential services, such as health clinics or emergency services, within a community due to safety concerns or systemic neglect.

Buffer

A protective function of a system, such as a family providing emotional support and supervision, to mitigate the negative psychological impacts of a high-risk environment.

Adaptive Strategies

Defensive behaviors an individual may adopt in response to chronic threat, such as avoidance, withdrawal, or the internalizing of anxiety.