Bioecological Systems Framework Model: Evaluation Bronfenbrenner's Bioecological

Bioecological Systems Framework Model: Evaluation Bronfenbrenner's Bioecological Systems Framework model views a child's development as taking place within the different environmental layers of his or her environment. The child's biology is the primary or core layer of the environment and interacts with the immediate family/community environment, and the greater social world. The biology is the foundational aspect of the model, given the extent to which biology can impact an individual's entire existence.

For example, someone with an inherited genetic disorder such as Huntington's disease, cystic fibrosis, or Downs Syndrome will have a profoundly different life than a child without such an illness. A lack of access to healthy food and water, immunizations, or exposure to harmful substances within the womb or during development can also impact human biology and limit the individual's healthy physical and mental development.

A child who does not have healthy food may develop a weight problem, and suffer from lifelong physical and social problems he or she would not suffer otherwise, had his or her biology been affected in a different fashion at an early age. Regardless of age and health status, the genetics and environmental impact of biology will determine the future of the individual (Paquette & Ryan 2001:1). Family and community also exert an influence on the child.

By exposing a child to healthy, positive stimuli, the family can counteract some of the negative biological and environmental influences surrounding the child (Paquette & Ryan 2001:23). Providing intellectual stimulation for the child, ensuring that the child is properly cared for so he or she meets essential developmental milestones, and providing love and support for the child are some of the essential functions of the family. Bronfenbrenner stated that children must have ongoing support and reinforcement from adults at home to form positive social attachments with other adults and peers.

"According to the ecological theory, if the relationships in the immediate family break down, the child will not have the tools to explore other parts of his mesosystem" (Paquette & Ryan 2001:25-26). This idea has important implications for politicians: if children do not have a stable home environment, their ability to learn will suffer. Schools must seek to foster a connection between parents and teachers, and there must be a strong commitment to bolstering family life in disadvantaged communities to foster empowerment and social change.

Religious institutions and other community organizations can provide some support for children who lack secure family ties. Children subject to positive family influences are more likely to thrive. The final layer of the model is that of greater society. "Societal values, legislation, and financial resources provided by our society also create the context in which families function" (Paquette & Ryan 2001:33).

Even a middle-class child with natural gifts and a strong family may meet with challenges if the system of laws are unjust, or social values prioritize inherited attributes to such a great degree that class status is seen as a contingent for great success. In contrast, a society which emphasizes social mobilization may be empowering for a child, provided that he or she has a foundation for growth in his or her other life.