Bronfenbrenner's ecological theory focuses on the development of the individual in the events of the internal and external layers of development. His studies and research have demonstrated how children's development is influenced by their environment. His theory shows how environmental influences have an effect on an individual's development and focuses on the relationships between a child and the changing environment. He proposed that the environment can influence behavior and how behavior is expressed. Unlike behaviorism, Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory examines various levels of the environment, not just behavior. It is composed of five environmental systems: microsystem, mesosystem, exosystem, macrosystem and chronosystem. Erik Erikson's psychosocial theory regarding the individual's environment and surroundings is related to Bronfenbrenner's ecological theory. He states that as one grows up, life presents individuals with various difficulties. One can also define these difficulties as developmental challenges. The “goal” is to adequately address these challenges. When the challenge is successful, it allows the individual to move forward with a healthy approach to overcome the next challenge. If there is not a sufficient amount of motivation, the attitude will not change. Thus, early childhood broadly refers to Erikson's stages of “autonomy versus shame and doubt,” “initiative versus guilt,” and the beginning of the “industriousness versus inferiority” developmental stages. a child and their environment to how they develop. Initially, the microsystem consists of the child's immediate environment, such as his or her family; however, the mesosystem is made up of interrelationships between two or ... halves of paper ...... and can improve the child's cognitive, social and physical development possibilities by providing an environment of innate play-based activities. There are no hard deadlines for tackling different challenges and learning skills, and parents and caregivers need to realize that there is a wide range of what is considered normal. All children grow and adapt to the world at their own pace. Ultimately everything works out when the right kind of stimulation and nourishment is provided. Works CitedSaddler, Michelle R.B. (2009, September). Developmental stages. Retrieved from http://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=32357Segal, M, Bardige, B, Woika, M, & Leinfelder, J. (2006). All About Child Care and Early Education: A Comprehensive Resource for Child Care Professionals. Allyn and Bacon.