In ecological systems theory, what do you call the interaction between a child’s immediate environment and the wider environment?

In ecological systems theory, the interaction between a child’s immediate environment—such as their home and school—and the wider environment is referred to as the mesosystem. This concept reflects how different components of a child's environment, specifically those that interact with each other, influence their development.

For instance, the relationship and interactions between a child's family and their school influence the child's overall experience and growth. If parents are involved in their child's schooling, it can enhance the child's educational experience and emotional wellbeing. Understanding the mesosystem is crucial as it emphasizes the interconnectedness of various settings in a child's life.

The microsystem refers to the immediate settings in which the child interacts, like family and peers, while the macrosystem represents the broader cultural and societal influences. The exosystem encompasses environments that indirectly impact the child, such as a parent's workplace or community services. However, the key element of interaction between the immediate and broader environments is best captured by the mesosystem.