Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory

Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory

Running Head: BRONFENBRENNER

Bronfenbrenner Revisited in the 21st Century:
A Look at How the Ecological Systems Theory May Be Inadequate

Kelly Engler

A Capstone Project submitted in partial fulfillment of the

Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in

Counselor Education at

Winona State University

Spring, 2007

Abstract
This capstone project will explore the history of social learning theories, as well as provide detail into Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory. Resiliency and protective factors will be defined and incorporated into the discussion of the previously mentioned theories. Life stories and current events will be talked about with regard to how resiliency plays a part in overcoming adversity. This project will conclude with the suggestion of future incorporation of resiliency into social learning theories.

Contents
Abstract……….……….……………………………………………………….……….…i
Contents……………...………………………………………………………….………...ii
Introduction……...…..………………………………………………………….…………1
Review of Literature………..…………………………………………………….……….3
History of Social Learning Theories………….……………………….….....…..3
Ivan Pavlov………………………………………………….…….…….3
JB Watson……………………………………………………….….…..4
BF Skinner……………………………………………………….….…..6
Bronfenbrenner and His Ecological Systems Theory…………………….... ….7
Discussion……………………………………….……………………………………….10

The Need for Resiliency to Be Added to Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems
Theory…………………………………..……………………………………..10

Defining Resiliency……………………………………………………….……10
Protective Factors and Resiliency…………………………………...…………11
Life Stories and Resiliency………………………………………….…..…..…12
Current Events and Resiliency……………………………..………….……….15
The Future of Resiliency and Social Learning Theories ………………...………….…..18
Author’s Note………..……………………………………………………….………….21
References………...……………………………………………………………...………23
Appendix A: Characteristics of Resilient People………………….……………………..25...

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