According to ecological systems theory, how are individuals affected by their social systems?

In the context of ecological systems theory, the correct understanding is that individuals are influenced indirectly through community beliefs and norms. This theory, proposed by Urie Bronfenbrenner, emphasizes that human development occurs within a complex system of relationships that includes environmental layers or systems, such as the microsystem, mesosystem, exosystem, and macrosystem.

Community beliefs and norms play a significant role in shaping an individual's perspectives, behaviors, and opportunities. They establish the broader context within which individuals operate, affecting their choices and interactions. For instance, cultural values, societal expectations, and communal support systems can significantly influence personal development and social behavior over time.

Direct experiences, media exposure, and communication with neighbors are all important, but they represent more immediate or isolated forms of influence. Direct experiences pertain to personal interactions or events that individuals encounter firsthand. Media exposure typically shapes perceptions and behaviors through the messages individuals consume, while communication with neighbors is about direct social interactions. However, when considering the interconnectedness of social systems, it's the broader community beliefs and norms that ultimately create an enduring environment influencing individuals' development.