Chapter 2 How and Why People Develop and Learn 35
Negative social environments may deprive children of positive social models
and expose them to antisocial behavior. Violence is a concern in American society.
The effects of family and community are often blamed for the increase in violence.
One boy may learn that aggression and violent behavior is prohibited in school
and the potential for being punished may deter him. Another boy may be encour-
aged to exhibit aggressive behavior as his parents and community encourage a
“boys will be boys” attitude.
In addition, communities collectively share values. Resources such as libraries,
swimming pools, music venues, youth day camps, and scouting programs provide
enriching experiences that enhance social and cognitive development, 2-12. The
availability of resources does not guarantee their use, however.
Economic Resources
Do parents of different socioeconomic conditions raise their children in dif-
ferent ways? The answer is most likely yes. Do these translate into a better family
environment that promotes optimal development for those with more resources?
The answer to this question depends more on the quality of parent-child interac-
tions than on economic status.
Families that are economically advan-
taged may be better able to provide housing
in areas that offer more support services. Par-
ents may have higher self-esteem, which in
turn directly affects their child’s self-esteem.
They may be able to provide stimulating
resources such as books, travel, and other
educational experiences.
Families with fewer economic resources
may still efficiently use them in child-
rearing processes that promote optimal
development. Less economically advan-
taged parents may spend more quality time
playing and talking with their children.
Most researchers today agree that family
interaction is vitally important in optimal
development of youth.
Media
Teachers often hear students mimicking
television characters, reciting movie trailers,
or singing advertisement jingles. Students
are surrounded by media. Television, mov-
ies, videos, podcasts, video games, music,
and the Internet bombard people both
inside and outside the home. Media has
a lot to offer people including consumer
news, current events, entertainment, sports,
education, and popular culture. Easy acces-
sibility makes media influence even more
prevalent.
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2-12
If youth are valued in a community, greater
resources for children and teens are often
provided.