Ecological systems theory developed by Urie Bronfenbrenner (1917-2005) in 1979, consists of five environmental systems and examines how individuals interact with them. This approach often provides information about children's development and their relationship with the environment. Ecological Systems Theory The five distinct groups of ecological systems theory examine how they relate to each other and the role they play in a child's development. Microsystem. The Microsystem refers to the people with whom an individual has direct involvement. Examples might include family, friends, teachers, and members of your community. This system is attributed to the construction of our environment and our involvement with those around us who create it. Mesosystem. The Mesosystem suggests that these microsystems form relationships with each other throughout their development, resulting in a system within a system. For example, an individual's family experience may be closely related to their school or work experience, creating a link between the two. For example, if a father abused his son, the child may have difficulty forming relationships with men in positions of authority, such as employers or teachers. This may also manifest itself in the child causing him to withdraw and feel alienated from his peers. Exosystem. The Exosystem creates a connection between the external context in which the individual does not have an active role, and the context in which the individual is immediately involved. For example, if a child has a closer relationship with his older brother than with his sister, and the brother goes to college, the child may feel disconnected in his relationship with his sister. Alternatively, the yes......middle of paper......judgment will help me throughout my life. Developing my social skills as a child was critical to my psychological growth. The versatility of my development is attributed to emotional, physical and environmental factors. These factors played an equally important role in my developmental progress as a child and play an integral role in my emotional connection with others. In retrospect, my personal development has had many transitions throughout my life, the interaction between my physical and emotional self has fluctuated as my immediate relationships and environment change. The resilience of the human mind and its ability to continue to develop throughout life is the main factor that distinguishes us from our counterparts. Works Cited Stassen Berger, K. (2010). Invitation to lifespan. New York: Worth Publishers.