Discussion 1 - Your text uses Bronfenbrenner's ecological model to explain how children's development is affected by different groups within their world. Using this theory, we can understand how children are socialized both intentionally and unintentionally. You must understand how this theory applies to your own upbringing as well as a young child's upbringing in order to truly comprehend the concept. After reading the text and the "Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory" (http://www.floridahealth.gov/AlternateSites/CMS-Kids/providers/early_steps/training/documents/bronfenbrenners_ecological.pdf) article, use your understanding of this theory to respond to the questions below.

Using Bronbenbrenner's ecological model, respond to the following questions:

a. How did the microsystem that you grew up in differ from your parents' or grandparents' microsystems? Do you think this is a detrimental or an affirmative change to society as a whole?

b. How do you think technology, specifically social media, influences a child's mesosystems?

Discussion 2 - Agents of Socialization

Agents of socialization include parents, siblings, extended family, community, culture, economic environment, religion, child care, school, teachers, peers, formal organizations, sports, mass media, and technology. In an ideal world, these agents would complement one another in order to best influence a child's development. Choose three of the above agents and discuss how these agents can have both a positive and negative influence on a child's development. Include examples from your own experience and share ways that you believe the agents of socialization could be improved.