ecological systems theory

an evolving body of theory and research concerned with the processes and conditions that govern the course of human development in the actual environments in which human beings live. Originally focused on the environment as a context for child development (in terms of nested systems ranging from micro- to macro-), the theory is now known as the bioecological model, denoting a broader conception of human development as a process that is affected, across the lifespan and across successive generations, by both environmental context and individual biopsychological characteristics. See also chronosystem; ecosystemic approach; exosystem; macrosystem; mesosystem. [originally conceptualized by Urie Bronfenbrenner]

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Psychology term of the day

September 17th 2024

tremor

n. any involuntary trembling of the body or a part of the body (e.g., the hands) due to neurological or psychological causes. Psychological (or psychogenic) tremor may be mild, due to tension, or violent and uncontrolled in severe disturbances. Toxic effects of drugs or heavy metals may produce a transient tremor. A coarse tremor involves a large muscle group in slow movements, whereas a fine tremor is caused by a small bundle of muscle fibers that move rapidly. Some tremors occur only during voluntary movements (see action tremor); others occur in the absence of voluntary movement (see resting tremor). See also essential tremor.