Super & Harkness: Developmental Niche Framework.pdf

Super & Harkness: Developmental Niche Framework How culture shapes child development PRINCIPLES 1. Child’s environment is organized as part of a cultural meaning system or cultural community Development is part of the culture Ex: “children should be seen and not heard” = respect of elders/authority...

Super & Harkness: Developmental Niche Framework How culture shapes child development PRINCIPLES 1. Child’s environment is organized as part of a cultural meaning system or cultural community Development is part of the culture Ex: “children should be seen and not heard” = respect of elders/authority 2. Child’s biological disposition affects their process of development 3 INTERACTING SUBSYSTEMS 1. Physical and social settings Physical: school Social settings: interactions with others 2. Customs and practices of child rearing Sleeping arrangements Discipline 3. Psychology of the caregivers Adaptations of the culture through the parents Child learns through social learning