Analysis of Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Theory

In reading the articles, Ecological Factors Associated with Adolescent Pregnancy and Parenting and An Ecological Approach to Understanding Peer Victimization in South Korea, Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Theory of Development are discussed as the microsystems, which is the roles and characteristics of a developing individual, the mesosystems, is the setting with which the developing person interacts, the exosystems, the settings with which the individual does not interact directly but that nonetheless have an effect on the individual's development, and the macrosystems is the cultural values and variables that affect individuals. (Corcoran et al., 2000). Both articles discuss how individuals interact and are shaped and influenced by these systems. Some of the factors for the result of teenage pregnancy included socioeconomic status, race, education, and family relationships. Teens not having a stable family structure resulted in a risk factor for early pregnancy. Also, teens experiencing family problems could be more at risk for being influenced by negative peers.

The article on Peer Victimization indicated that parents who overprotect their children, interfering in daily activities, yelling and using profanity as parenting behaviors increased their vulnerability to be exposed to peer victimization. If children witnessed family violence, it is another risk factor for peer aggression and for them to act aggressively at school.

Bronfenbrenner's levels of influence have shaped my development in applying the microsystems in the following ways. As a child growing up, my family consisted of my mother, father, five siblings and myself. We grew up in Miami, Florida, and as I can recall my mother and father were very hardworking, loving, caring, and nurturing parents. I remember my family as being very close and nurtured by one another. There was a strong unity among us which created a safe, positive, and supportive environment growing up. At the age of 10, both of my parents died, and I was separated from my siblings and relocated to Rochester with my aunt and uncle, who was loving and nurturing also. It was at this point in my life I was taught family values and morals. My aunt and uncle have been an influencing factor in my life by teaching me structure and setting boundaries in which to function and thrive. As Proverbs 22:6 states, "train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it." The values and morals taught to me include being very loving, caring and nurturing to my own children as well as others. Also, to be hardworking, honest and dedicated. I have followed their lead, to set an example for my own children and grandchildren who are being led in the right direction. I have regarded my family values and morals as the building block of my life in which direction I should go. These values and morals have given me structure in the person I have become. I have persevered and endured a lot in life which has strengthened and prepared me for this ever changing society. As Poussaint (2000) states, "The idea that strength is required to endure the difficulties of life on earth has been central to black culture, and psychological, spiritual, and physical endurance enabled African-Americans to withstand more than three hundred years of oppression" (pg. 109).

The mesosystems in my life would be my environmental/social influence and consists of having and maintaining interpersonal relationships with family, friends, school, church, and the community. The support my family and friends have provided enables me to access help when needed. I have developed a loving and lasting relationship with family, friends and my church community. I have been able to maintain certain family values and beliefs taught to me as a child. More importantly, I recognize that I am a role model and need to be a good example for my family to follow and others.

Growing up as a child, I always attended church, but did not have a relationship with God. It was not until my adulthood when my relationship with God was truly established. I began to understand the true meaning of God and His word. It was not until I heard a dear friend of mine and mentor, Reverend Valerie Anderson Smith, preach a sermon about the women with the issue of blood that my trials and tribulations ended. It was that glorious Sunday in April 1996 when I gave my life to God. Two of my former pastors, one in Detroit, Michigan and one in Rochester, New York had the greatest spiritual impact on my life.

My personal intimate relationship with Him was established. I was fascinated or more less challenged by what God could do to change and turn my life around. I began to attend church weekly, pray and read God's word. It is now more important for me to continue to maintain