National Counselor Exam (NCE)

Who is credited with the ecological systems theory of development?

1. Piaget

2. Vygotsky

3. Erikson

4. Bronfenbrenner

The correct answer is: Bronfenbrenner

Ecological systems theory, developed by Urie Bronfenbrenner, focuses on the complex interplay between individuals and their environment, emphasizing that human development occurs within a nested set of social and cultural contexts. Bronfenbrenner posited that a person’s development cannot be fully understood without considering the various systems in which they interact, ranging from immediate settings like family and school to broader societal influences. He proposed different layers of environment, including the microsystem (immediate environment), mesosystem (interactions between microsystems), exosystem (indirect environments), macrosystem (broader cultural context), and chronosystem (changes over time). This holistic view allows for a comprehensive understanding of how various factors, both internal and external, contribute to human development. In contrast, the other theorists mentioned each focus on distinct aspects of development. Piaget is known for his theories on cognitive development and the stages children go through in understanding the world. Vygotsky emphasized the social aspects of learning and the role of cultural tools in cognitive development, introducing concepts such as the Zone of Proximal Development. Erikson focused on psychosocial development across the lifespan, outlining his theory through eight stages centered on identity and social relationships. Each of their contributions