Discussion
1: Systems Theory: Systems, Settings, and Sources of Influence
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 pp. 514-515 of Bronfenbrenner (1977)
to understand the definitions of each system within the ecological systems
model.
·
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 the 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 both in-text citations and
references. It is strongly recommended that you include proper APA format and
citations.
By Day 5
Respond to at least one of your colleagues’ posts and explain how
culture could influence the demands and expectations of settings within a
system your colleague described.
Return to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to
your initial posting. Note what you have learned and/or any insights you have
gained as a result of your colleagues’ comments.
Last Completed Projects
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