Which theory focuses on the processes and conditions that influence human development in various environments?

The focus on the processes and conditions that influence human development in various environments is central to ecological systems theory. This theory, developed by Urie Bronfenbrenner, posits that human development occurs within a series of nested systems that interact with one another, ranging from immediate environments like family and school to broader societal contexts.

Ecological systems theory emphasizes how these layers—microsystems, mesosystems, exosystems, and macrosystems—impact an individual’s growth and development. For instance, it considers how a child's home life interacts with their education and community exposure, recognizing that no single context can be fully understood in isolation.

This approach shines a light on the dynamic interplay between individual characteristics and environmental factors, stressing the importance of context in shaping developmental experiences. By understanding these interactions, we gain insights into how different environments contribute uniquely to development over time.

Other theories mentioned, while significant in their own right, focus more narrowly on specific aspects of development. Behaviorism primarily emphasizes observable behaviors influenced by stimuli, cognitive development theory centers on mental processes and stages of intellectual growth, and social learning theory highlights the role of observation and imitation in learning behaviors.