What does the Ecological Systems Theory model examine?

The Ecological Systems Theory model, developed by Urie Bronfenbrenner, examines the complex interplay between individuals and their environmental context, which includes various systems that influence behavior and development. The second choice accurately reflects this by addressing the effect of societal influences on family dynamics. It emphasizes how larger social systems, such as communities, cultures, and societal norms, impact families and individuals within those families.

This theory posits that families do not operate in isolation; instead, they are affected by multiple layers of systems. For instance, the macrosystem includes cultural values and laws, while the exosystem includes external social settings that indirectly affect the family, such as workplace policies or social services available in the community. This interconnectedness highlights how external societal factors can shape family functioning, roles, and relationships, making this aspect crucial in understanding family dynamics within the therapeutic context.

In contrast, the other options focus on narrower aspects of influence. While community resources and economic status are relevant in understanding therapy settings and individual circumstances, they do not encapsulate the broader societal influences that the Ecological Systems Theory specifically addresses. The influence of individual behavior in isolation neglects the theory's emphasis on the interplay between various systems, which is essential for a comprehensive understanding of human behavior