Ecological Systems Theory Research Articles

Why English? Exploring Chinese early career returnee academics’ motivations for writing and publishing in English

To improve their research performance in international league tables, many universities in non-English language dominant settings recruit academic returnees in the hope that they will increase the quantity and quality of articles published in English-medium internationally indexed journals. This study explores Chinese early career returnee academics’ motivations for writing and publishing in English. Utilising ecological systems theory, the findings show that the microsystem is reflected in the early career returnee academics’ interaction with collaborators, while national policies constitute the exosystem. The academic culture has a noteworthy impact at the macrosystem level. This study contributes to the understanding of early career returnee academics’ motivations to write and publish in English which will assist policymakers and university administrators to create a more beneficial environment to promote the accomplishments of academic returnees.

Leaders’ experiences of successfully implementing health and welfare technology in sparsely populated Nordic areas

Purpose This study examines the effective implementation of health and welfare technology (HWT) in sparsely populated Nordic regions within healthcare and social care settings. Materials and methods Through re-analysing 12 semi-structured interviews conducted in 2020 across three successfully implementing Nordic regions, the research utilised inductive thematic analysis with a reflexive approach to uncover key experiences. Results It identifies five critical success factors: Positive attitudes towards and understanding of digital transformation, Consensus on changing care delivery through HWT, Leadership and organisational readiness for change, Effective feedback mechanisms, and Trust and engagement in the learning process. Highlighting the significance of positive mindsets, leadership, collaboration, and adaptability, the findings underscore the theoretical underpinnings of Weiner’s organisational readiness for change and Bronfenbrenner’s ecological system theory for planning and understanding HWT implementation. Addressing challenges of adapting to HWT necessitates a comprehensive approach, including tailored training, robust support systems, strategic user engagement, feedback integration, and fostering open communication, ultimately ensuring technology serves the user’s needs effectively. Conclusion In conclusion, successful HWT adoption in these areas hinges on fostering a culture of learning, strong leadership, and collaborative efforts. It suggests further research with a larger cohort to validate these insights, offering vital considerations for organisations navigating digital transformation in healthcare and social services.

Trainees as Agents of Change: A Theory-Informed Model for Trainee-Driven Curricular Advocacy in Medical Education.

Trainees (medical students, residents, and fellows) are beginning to make strides in pushing for changes to their education. While there are many examples of successful trainee-led curriculum reform efforts, the path to success remains unclear. To better understand the process of trainee-driven curricular advocacy, the author analyzes this process through the lens of ecological systems theory (EST) not only to provide readers with context for the barriers and facilitators to trainee-driven curricular advocacy but also to further medical education's understanding of the sociopolitical forces influencing the process of trainee-driven curricular advocacy and reform through the lens of the trainee. EST explains how individuals are influenced by a complex web of social and environmental forces. The theory outlines 5 ecological systems of influence: the microsystem, mesosystem, exosystem, macrosystem, and chronosystem. Using EST to explore the process of trainee-driven curricular advocacy therefore clarifies the many layers of influence that trainees must navigate while advocating for curriculum change. The author then draws on this theory and their own experience as a medical student advocating for local and national curriculum reform to develop a model to facilitate trainee-driven curricular advocacy in medical education. The proposed model outlines concrete steps trainees can take while going through the process of curricular advocacy both within their own institutions and on a national level. Through developing this model, the author hopes not only to empower trainees to become agents of change in medical education but also to encourage faculty members and administrators within health professional training programs to support trainees in these efforts.

The Effectiveness of Inclusive Education Policies for Students with Disabilities

Purpose: This study sought to examine the effectiveness of inclusive education policies for students with disabilities. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the effectiveness of inclusive education policies for students with disabilities. Preliminary empirical review revealed that such policies played a vital role in promoting educational inclusion and academic success within mainstream educational settings. Despite encountering challenges such as inadequate resources and negative attitudes, inclusive education policies showed promise in creating equitable learning environments. The study emphasized the importance of addressing systemic barriers, promoting positive attitudes, and continuously monitoring and adapting policies to meet the evolving needs of students with disabilities. Overall, the findings underscored the potential of inclusive education policies to foster academic achievement and social inclusion for students with disabilities, contributing to a more equitable and supportive educational system. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Model of Disability, Ecological Systems theory and Critical Disability theory may be used to anchor future studies on inclusive education policies for students with disabilities. The study provided provided recommendations that enhanced theoretical frameworks, improved practice, and informed policy in inclusive education. It emphasized the importance of refining theoretical understandings of disability, providing professional development for educators, and developing comprehensive transition services for students with disabilities. Additionally, the study advocated for policy reforms that promote equity and social inclusion, fostered collaboration among stakeholders, and called for increased funding and support for inclusive education initiatives. These recommendations contributed to advancing inclusive education by promoting more responsive, equitable, and supportive educational environments for students with disabilities.

Adolescent Perspectives on Distance Learning and Schools’ Impact on Subjective well-being

AbstractAim of this study is to see how youths and adolescents (12–17 years) have experienced their education during lockdowns in 2021, and how school affects subjective well-being (SWB). Grounded in Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory, it explores the interconnectedness of social environments and subjective well-being. Data were collected through a survey in Germany, capturing subjective well-being, social resources, and educational outcomes before and during times of school closures (2019 and 2021). The present study evaluates responses from two towns, two years and more than 1700 adolescents in total. Quantitative analyses reveal positive associations between academic success, supportive environments, perceived affluence, and well-being. Findings highlight which dimensions of supportive environments are driving youth well-being and underscore the importance of school as central piece in adolescent life. School as a supportive environment plays a major role in adolescent lives and has a lot of potential to compensate for structural disadvantages affecting SWB.

The Experiences of Refugees in Host Communities

Purpose: This study sought to examine the experiences of refugees in host communities. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the experiences of refugees in host communities. Preliminary empirical review revealed that refugees encountered multifaceted challenges, including language barriers, discrimination, and limited access to education and employment opportunities, shaping their integration experiences. Positive host community attitudes and inclusive government policies were found to facilitate integration, while negative attitudes hindered social inclusion. Community support networks played a crucial role in fostering refugees' sense of belonging and social cohesion. Overall, the study highlighted the importance of a holistic and rights-based approach to refugee integration, emphasizing collaboration between stakeholders to promote empathy, understanding, and cooperation among host community members and refugees, thus fostering inclusive and resilient societies. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Identity theory, Acculturation theory and Ecological Systems theory may be used to anchor future studies the experiences of refugees in host communities. The study provided valuable recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy in the field of refugee studies. It recommended further theoretical development to understand refugee experiences better and emphasized community-based initiatives for fostering positive interactions between refugees and host community members. Additionally, the study called for comprehensive integration policies, targeted interventions for vulnerable subgroups, and research-informed policymaking and practice. These recommendations aimed to create inclusive environments and promote the long-term integration and well-being of refugees in host communities.

Shaping individual competitiveness: the role of discipline, parental expectations, and participation in extracurricular activities

PurposeThis research seeks to extend previous research into student discipline and competitiveness, at the macro or national level, to the micro or individual level. The role of factors with the potential to impact individual competitiveness, namely the expectations of the mother and the father, the importance of school discipline played in primary and secondary schools, and past participation in sport and music were examined. Design/methodology/approach: Data from a sample of current university students and recent graduates representing Western (the United States) and Asian regions (South Korea and China) were analysed using multiple regressions to establish the explanatory power of independent variables in the competitiveness model, including testing for moderation effects of country of birth. ResultsThe study found that personal discipline is significantly associated with individual competitiveness. The importance placed on discipline in primary schools was found to predict individual competitiveness as were parents’ expectations, yet with nuances in terms of maternal and paternal expectations. Surprisingly, neither participation in music nor discipline at secondary school was found to significantly associate with individual competitiveness. At the same time, the study did find moderating effects of country of birth and the number of years students played sport in predicting competitiveness. Originality/valueGuided by the Ecological Systems Theory and the notion of the Pygmalion effect, we develop a framework of factors that shape an individual’s competitiveness. The results make several theoretical contributions by establishing new drivers of individual competitiveness, and as such illuminating the importance of discipline during schooling and how parental expectations drive performance. Implications for employers, educational institutions, and parents are outlined and directions for further research are offered.

Cross-Cultural Differences in Food Preferences and Consumption Patterns

Purpose: This study sought to explore cross- cultural differences in food preferences and consumption patterns. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to cross- cultural differences in food preferences and consumption patterns. Preliminary empirical review revealed that cultural heritage profoundly influenced individuals' food preferences and consumption habits, with distinct culinary traditions and family influences shaping dietary behaviors within specific cultural contexts. Globalization and urbanization were found to impact food preferences, yet traditional dietary practices remained resilient. Additionally, socio-economic factors significantly influenced dietary behaviors, particularly in low-income communities. These findings emphasized the importance of recognizing cultural diversity and socio-economic disparities in promoting healthy eating behaviors and improving public health outcomes. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Cultural Anthropology theory, Social Identity theory and Ecological Systems theory may be used to anchor future studies on cross- cultural differences in food preferences and consumption patterns. The study offered valuable recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy in the field of nutrition and public health. By identifying cultural influences on food preferences and consumption patterns, the study enriched theoretical frameworks such as cultural anthropology, social identity theory, and ecological systems theory. Its findings informed the development of culturally sensitive interventions and educational programs, empowering individuals to make healthier food choices while respecting cultural heritage. Additionally, the study's insights guided the formulation of evidence-based policies aimed at addressing diet-related health disparities and promoting food security and nutrition equity on a global scale.

WELL-BEING AMONG SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL LEARNERS: A LITERATURE REVIEW

This literature review synthesizes a wide range of scholarly articles and official documents to explore the multifaceted concept of well-being, particularly in the context of education and mental health. Drawing upon theoretical frameworks such as Maslow's hierarchy of needs, ecological systems theory, and positive psychology, the review provides a comprehensive examination of the various dimensions that contribute to individual well-being. Key themes include the importance of addressing physical, social, emotional, and spiritual aspects of well-being within educational settings, as well as the role of holistic wellness programs in promoting overall health and happiness. The review highlights the significance of subjective well-being as a subjective evaluation of an individual's quality of life, emphasizing the need for comprehensive measurement tools that capture both hedonic and eudaimonic aspects of well-being. Furthermore, the review discusses the relationship between well-being and academic achievement, underscoring the reciprocal nature of this association. It also explores the impact of social support networks, emotional intelligence, and coping strategies on well-being outcomes, emphasizing the importance of fostering open communication channels and providing access to support services for students. Moreover, the review addresses emerging challenges and opportunities in the field, such as the growing recognition of mental health literacy as a public health goal and the increasing use of technology, including social media and virtual reality, to assess and enhance well-being. Finally, it discusses relevant policy initiatives, including mental health legislation and educational reforms aimed at promoting student well-being and resilience. Overall, this literature review provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between well-being, education, and mental health, offering implications for research, practice, and policy development in these critical areas.

Barriers for exiting sex work: an exploration on female sex workers (FSW) in Puducherry, India

Exit is not an easy task for a sex worker. Academic investigations of the reasons and barriers to exit from the sex industry are lacking heavily. Sex work is a stigmatised profession, even though the workers find it difficult to exit the same. The current study attempted to understand the barriers faced by female sex workers in Puducherry, a union territory in the southeast part of India, to exit from sex work. The participants comprise 19 female sex workers (FSW) who work in Puducherry. The data were collected through in-depth interviews. All of the participants had thoughts about quitting. The barriers to exit were identified. The barriers were recognised at the individual, interpersonal (microsystem), and structural (macro system) levels within the framework of Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, which are discussed in detail in the paper. The study also identified a lack of support systems for the targeted population.

Aftercare for Survivors of Human Trafficking: A Case Study on Optimal Approach to Recovery and Integration

Human trafficking is a modern-day slavery that mostly disproportionate women in the society. This study aimed to fill the knowledge gaps regarding the aftercare experiences of human trafficking survivors as they navigated their recovery and reintegration into society, with a specific focus on the Philippines. The research investigated the effectiveness of aftercare interventions provided by agency, highlighting the importance of comprehensive and customized support systems. It drew on Empowerment Theory and Ecological Systems Theory to inform its analysis. The study utilized a qualitative intrinsic case study design, employing purposeful sampling to gather insights from social worker, psychologist, house parents, survivors and other professional involved in aftercare. Collecting data using typically involved conducting in-depth interviews, engaging with key informants, and facilitating focus group discussions. Emerging themes were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s method of thematic analysis. The study uncovered two main themes: "Grappling with Adversities" and "Socio-emotional Transformation." It provided insight into the challenges and situations experienced by survivors, as well as the influence of support systems, healing processes, and personal development initiatives on their recovery. The research highlighted the significance of education, development of independent living skills, and provision of emotional support in empowering survivors. Suggested measures involved the establishment of thorough post-treatment support initiatives, public initiatives to raise awareness within the community, and ongoing professional training for workers. This study added to our knowledge of survivor empowerment within the realm of human trafficking and emphasized the importance of continued research and evaluation of aftercare programs.

Barriers and bridges to well-being for Latinx immigrant youth in a new Latinx destination: A digital narrative inquiry

An increasing number of Latinx young people in the United States are facing unique challenges to attaining and maintaining well-being as residents of new Latinx destinations. This study analyzes the testimonios of 12 Latinx immigrant youth (aged 18–21) who participated in a digital narrative research project in New Orleans – a new Latinx destination in the US South. Findings are interpreted and discussed through the lens of the Phenomenological Variant of Ecological Systems Theory (PVEST), revealing Latinx young people’s perspectives on the barriers to experiencing well-being, the “bridges” that helped them to experience well-being despite those barriers, and the ways in which broader contexts and identities shaped their lived experiences. This study offers evidence of the detrimental health impacts of racialization and marginalization on Latinx youth in a new Latinx destination, as well as the assets, resources, coping skills, and meaning-making processes that supported their well-being.

The Hidden Burden: Encountering and Managing (Unintended) Stigma in Children with Serious Illnesses

Families managing serious health conditions in children are often burdened not only by the challenge of health management but also by the heavy weight of stigma. To assist these families, various physical and digital support systems have been established to address their emotional and informational needs. We interviewed 32 children and parents living with serious chronic pulmonary illnesses to gain insights into their experiences with both their conditions and support systems. We discovered that, although a wide range of support systems were available, most participants chose to engage selectively with or completely withdraw from them. Using the ecological systems theory, we elucidate the presence of health-related and unintended stigmas associated with support systems across different ecological layers. Our work provides a comprehensive and dynamic perspective on these stigmas, considering technological, interpersonal, institutional, and social factors. By examining how stigma arises in social interactions, we introduce and delve into the concept of "stigma work" and offer design considerations for more empathetic support systems that attend to individuals and groups with stigmatized health conditions, identities, or experiences.

Roles of Racial Ecologies on Black Adolescents’ Coping with Racism

Drawing from Spencer’s phenomenological variant of ecological systems theory (PVEST), this study examines how Black adolescents navigate racism-related stress, ethnic-racial socialization, and critical reflection as racial ecologies, and their association with coping strategies. Additionally, we explore critical action, a unique coping strategy related to critical consciousness. Using latent profile analysis, data from 200 Black adolescents (Mage = 14.2 years) were analyzed, with racism, ethnic-racial socialization, and critical reflection as indicators. Profile differences in coping were also investigated. Four distinct profiles of Black teen racial ecologies were identified: (a) Positively Racially Socialized, Less Discriminated ( n = 88); (b) Racially Socialized, Discriminated, and Aware ( n = 47); (c) Racially Discriminated and Negatively Socialized ( n = 37); and (d) Low Racially Salient ( n = 28). These profiles exhibited differences in coping strategy endorsement. The findings highlight the importance of Black youth's racial ecologies in shaping their coping mechanisms and have implications for research and clinical practices.

Factors Affecting Academic Performance in Social Studies Among Students in Selected Public Junior High Schools in Hohoe Municipality, Ghana

The study sought to investigate the factors affecting academic performance in Social Studies among public junior high school students in Hohoe Municipality in the Volta Region of Ghana. It adopted Ecological systems theory by Urie Bronferbrenner (1979). A quantitative (positivist) methodology with a descriptive cross-sectional survey design was used for the study. The three public junior high schools were obtained through the use of a purposeful sampling approach. Additionally, a random sampling procedure was employed to select 180 students from the three chosen schools. Structured questionnaires were used as instrument for data collection. With the aid of the version 25 of the Statistical Product for Service Solution (SPSS), descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) were used to analyse the data. The findings of the study revealed that students' home characteristics including parents' great interest in their children's education and involvement in household tasks had had an impact on their academic performance in Social Studies. Academic performance was also found to be influenced by criteria related to the teachers, such as their professional training, teaching experience, subject-matter expertise, positive relationships with their students, and completion of the Social Studies curriculum. It was recommended that the Ministry of Education and Ghana Education Service provide guidance and counselling systems in the public junior high schools in the Municipality as well as schedule regular and thorough in-service training and workshops for the headteachers and teachers to enable them advance their knowledge, skills, and experiences in instructional pedagogies.

The roles of teachers in enhancing effective classroom management strategies in Gauteng high schools, South Africa

Purpose: This study explores the challenges teachers face in their classroom management roles which are essential for fostering a supportive learning environment. It investigates teachers' roles in implementing management strategies and the obstacles hindering their effectiveness in high schools.
 Design/Methodology/Approach: The present study used semi-structured interviews to collect data from twelve Grade 10 teachers in three selected secondary schools located in the Ekurhuleni North District of Gauteng Province, South Africa. The data were interpreted using a phenomenological research design and interpretive paradigm. The study was based on ecological systems theory. Thematic analysis was used to make sense of the data.
 Findings: The study revealed that key roles of teachers in effective classroom management include appropriate classroom language, acting as managers and self-criticism and evaluation of performance. However, challenges such as insufficient teaching and learning resources and the low academic ability of learners impede the fulfilment of these roles.
 Conclusion: The study finds that continuous self-criticism and evaluation are critical for improving teaching and learning processes, although teachers play a critical role in monitoring classrooms and resolving difficulties imposed by low academic competence.
 Recommendations: Recommendations include comprehensive training and support for teachers, the implementation of diverse teaching strategies and a holistic consideration of the ecological system encompassing both learners and teachers.

The Analysis of Influence Factors and Solutions to the Lack of Sex Education for Minors in China from the Perspective of the Ecological Systems Theory

Nowadays the implementation of sex education is still insufficient in China, although it has been improved gradually. This paper looks at the dilemma in sex education in modern society in China, which is mainly concerned with the tension between the lack of systematic education on sex at all ages and the need for teenagers to better protect themselves from danger. Actually, sex education is of great significance to help children cultivate a sense of identity and gender equality, consciously respect members of the opposite sex, establish a sense of self-protection, and confront the concept of sex correctly. However, as a result of cultural conservatism, few educational systems in China have a clear sense of sex in all aspects. The study reveals the influence factors on the lack of sex education for minors in China from the perspective of the ecological systems theory, pointing out the negative impact of its absence and potential solutions to relieve the tension. Influence factors include the historical legacy Impact of Cultural Conservatism and the lack of policy support for the sexual education of minors, which belong to the ecosystems, while the impact of social media belongs to the macro system.

The effect of school interpersonal relationship quality on adolescent depression: the role of perceived stress and OXTR gene

ABSTRACT Based on ecological systems theory and the genetic and environmental research paradigm, the current study explored the effect of school interpersonal relationship quality (peer and teacher-student) on adolescent depression and the role of perceived stress and the OXTR gene. Based on the statistical power of previous G*E interaction studies, A follow-up survey was conducted with 603 Chinese adolescents (average age = 14.76 ± 0.72 years at the time of the initial measurement; range: 13 to 15) using a questionnaire method (Short Form of the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale, The Chinese version of Perceived Stress Scale, short form of Friendship Quality Questionnaire and Teacher-student Relationship) and DNA typing technique. The study found that (1) school interpersonal relationship quality influenced adolescent depression; (2) perceived stress fully mediated the relationship between school interpersonal relationship quality and adolescent depression; (3) the OXTR gene rs2254298 and rs53576 polymorphisms moderated both the direct pathway and the second half of the indirect pathway. Specifically, individuals carrying the rs2254298 polymorphism A/G genotype and the rs53576 polymorphism A genotype exhibited a significantly enhanced effect of interpersonal relationship quality and perceived stress on adolescent depression, supporting the differential susceptibility model.

The Immunomodulatory Effects of Herbal Supplements in Poultry

Purpose: The general purpose of the study was to explore the immunomodulatory effects of herbal supplements in poultry.
 Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.
 Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to immunomodulatory effects of herbal supplements in poultry. Preliminary empirical review revealed that herbal extracts enhanced immune parameters, such as lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine production, suggesting their potential to improve poultry health and disease resistance. The diverse mechanisms of action of phytochemicals underscored the complexity of herbal supplements' effects on poultry immunity, while considerations such as formulation and environmental factors influenced their efficacy. Overall, while further research is warranted to optimize formulations and deepen our understanding of mechanisms, herbal supplements show considerable promise as alternatives to conventional additives in poultry production, offering holistic and sustainable approaches to enhancing poultry health and welfare.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Systems Biology theory, Ecological Systems theory and Ethnopharmacology theory may be used to anchor future studies on immunomodulatory effects of herbal supplements in poultry. The study provided recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy in poultry production and animal health. The findings advanced theoretical knowledge by elucidating the complex interactions between phytochemicals and the avian immune system. In practice, recommendations supported the incorporation of herbal supplements into poultry diets to promote immune health and disease resistance, benefiting poultry producers, veterinarians, and feed manufacturers. Moreover, policy recommendations advocated for regulatory frameworks supporting the use of herbal supplements and education initiatives aimed at enhancing stakeholder awareness and understanding. Collaboration between academia, industry, and government agencies was recommended to further research and innovation, while international cooperation facilitated knowledge exchange and harmonization of standards.
 Keywords: Immunomodulatory, Herbal Supplements, Poultry, Phytochemicals, Immune Function, Sustainable, Regulation, Collaboration, International Cooperation

Cultural Influences on Parenting Styles and Child Development

Purpose: The general aim of the study was to examine the cultural influences on parenting styles and child development. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to cultural influences on parenting styles and child development. Preliminary empirical review revealed the significant role of cultural norms, values, and beliefs in shaping parenting behaviors and influencing child well-being across diverse cultural contexts. Through a comprehensive review of empirical research, it highlighted distinct patterns of parenting practices influenced by cultural factors such as collectivism, individualism, and religiosity. Findings also emphasized the dynamic nature of cultural adaptation within immigrant populations, with shifts in parenting styles observed as parents acculturated to the host society. The study underscored the importance of culturally sensitive interventions and support services in promoting positive parent-child relationships and enhancing child well-being across diverse cultural backgrounds. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Learning theory, Ecological Systems theory and Attachment theory may be used to anchor future studies on cultural influences on parenting styles and child development. The study provided valuable recommendations across multiple domains. It advised researchers to further explore cultural influences on parenting within diverse contexts and integrate insights from various disciplines to enhance theoretical frameworks. Practitioners were encouraged to adopt culturally sensitive approaches, receive training in cultural competence, and collaborate with community stakeholders to support families effectively. Policymakers were urged to develop culturally responsive policies addressing systemic barriers faced by diverse families and promote inclusive practices in healthcare, education, and social services. Additionally, the study emphasized the importance of continued research, culturally tailored interventions, practitioner training, and collaborative efforts to promote positive parenting and child well-being across diverse cultural backgrounds.