Child Development in Micronesia and the Us Micronesian Migration Diaspora: Through the Lens of Bronfenbrenner's Theoretical Structures
Spencer, Mary (1996). Child Development in Micronesia and the Us Micronesian Migration Diaspora: Through the Lens of Bronfenbrenner's Theoretical Structures (PDF) (Report). Mangilao, Guam: University of Guam. pp. 11–31.
- Has attachment: File:6YKICZ5Z.pdf
Abstract: Decisions made by the United Nations regarding the Pacific Islands at the close of World War II set in motion the terms for not only the future governance and protection of these small islands, but also for significant waves of future out-migration. This report will address the state of Micronesian migration and the associated status of child development research in the Micronesian region and the US Micronesian diaspora. Particular attention is given to the potential utility of Urie Bronfenbrenner's theoretical structures for organizing Micronesian migration research design and outcome analysis. The purposes of child development research in the Micronesian Region, and also in the US Micronesian migration communities, align with the traditional purposes of the social sciences (i.e., to understand, to predict, and to support positive development or to ameliorate problems and suffering). Needs are acute for research regarding the migrating children and youth of Micronesia because their home island cultures and circumstances are often in sharp contrast compared to those of other ethnic and cultural groups in the US. Research on Micronesian children's development-whether on the home island or in the diaspora-is scarce and often difficult to locate. US educators, social workers, health professionals, and community leaders seek the assistance of social science to better understand their new Micronesian Compact of Free Association residents. These US community leaders often ask for more knowledge of Micronesian home island traditions in order to create effective relations with the new migrants. Similarly, they seek analysis of how effective their receiving strategies are proving to be, what the gaps are, and how further improvement can be affected (e.g.
