View/Open - ResearchSpace - University of KwaZulu-Natal

Figure 2.2 Ecological systems theory as applied to this study sourced from
(Bromfenbrenner, 1974)
Taking this into consideration, the working definition for ecological systems theory for this
study is, the study of how human beings interact with their complex environment either
affecting each other negatively or positively. This theory is based on the assumption that,
when a person or group is connected and engaged in a supportive environment, the
functioning also improves (Davis, 2009). It important to note that, the ecological systems
theory in this study is appropriate to describe the relationship between the HBCOs’ regulation
and the outcome of the services provided by their workers. This means that, in home-based
care organizations and volunteer caregivers providing care to patients will perform their
duties effectively if necessary materials are provided hence improving their functioning.
2.9.1 Levels of the ecological systems theory as applied to this study
The ecological systems theory has four levels of influence and these are micro-system, meso-
system, exo-system and the macro-system (Wilder, 2009).
25