Ecosystems Perspective Social Work 

Ecosystems Perspective Social Work 

Biopsychological and Cultural Influences

Take time now to read the following article:
Miley, K., O’Melia, M. & Dubois, B. (1995). The Ecosystems Perspective. In Generalist social work practice: an empowering approach. Boston: Allyn & Bacon.

Although this is an older reading, it offers a rich clarity and understanding of environmental and ecosystems models of social work theory.

Miley et al. help us to understand that human systems are complex and multidimensional. The language of systems theory places each system and subsystem within the context of its environment. The assumption is made that each system whether it is an individual, family, group or community, can function either as a subsystem or as an environment within which the other systems reside. The most important aspect of the systems perspective is the use of the language and concepts of systems to describe the elements which comprise the system, its relationship to its environment and how those systems interact and react to changes over time.

Keep in mind that systems have subsystems and environments. Within Indigenous communities, the concept of the kinship system encompasses several subsystems. For example, you may be a member of your household and also have a membership in a particular clan. In addition, within your household or clan there are members who hold certain status and recognition as part of the cultural tradition. At another level, the system may consist of the households and members who comprise the extended kinship network and perform basic functional roles. Figure 2.3 on page 46 of the Miley et al. article provides a diagram which describes subsystems and their environments.

The extended kinship system is often described as the foundation of Indigenous family life as it offers a variety of resources and support. The language systems theory can also be used to describe relationships within the community. In this way, we can say that individual system membership has an interdependent relationship to other subsystems within the family and extended kinship network.

The authors indicate that the common denominators influence the relationship between our behaviour and the influence of the cultural dynamics present in any system. While we may observe the same event, how we think, feel and interpret its meaning is dependent on our cultural background, belief system, etc. There is a great deal of diversity in humans, perceptions of the world and the events that occur within their environments. The authors stress that the construction of meaning or reality by humans is influenced by a variety of factors that are related to the biopsychological and cultural influences present in our environment.

Miley et al. conclude that a person’s feelings cannot be separated from other aspects of his or her functioning. Indigenous belief systems emphasize balance and harmony within the person, family and community. These beliefs echo the ecosystems perspective in that it is thought that the imbalance which occurs when one element of the whole is out of harmony, affects all the other elements.

Learning Activity 2.2

The completion of this learning activity is an integral part of this module. Carefully define and describe the following, taking time to reflect on their importance.

  • The ecosystems model
  • Equilibrium
  • Feedback
  • Mutual causality
  • Wholeness

You may wish to discuss some of this information in your online Sharing Circle or add these terms to your glossary.

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