Spencer's phenomenological variant of ecological systems theory (PVEST): Charting its origin and impact

Authors

Michael Cunningham, Tulane University
Dena Phillips Swanson, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Joseph Youngblood, Kean University
Eleanor K. Seaton, Arizona State University
Samantha Francois, Tulane University
Christopher Ashford, Microsoft Corporation

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

5-1-2023

Abstract

This article examines the origin and scholarly impact of Dr. Margaret Beale Spencer's phenomenological variant of ecological systems theory (PVEST). We expound on her early foundational work replicating the Clark and Clark (1950) doll study and research during the period of "Atlanta's missing and murdered children." As a conceptual template, we anchor the theoretical contribution as introducing phenomenology and "net vulnerability" as factors that inform "emerging identities." Highlighted research focuses on synergistic themes associated with identity intersectionality, pubertal development, and education as a context for net vulnerability. We end with suggestions for future directions for PVEST. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).

Publication Title

The American psychologist

First Page Number

524

Last Page Number

534

DOI

10.1037/amp0001051

Recommended Citation

Cunningham, Michael; Swanson, Dena Phillips; Youngblood, Joseph; Seaton, Eleanor K.; Francois, Samantha; and Ashford, Christopher, "Spencer's phenomenological variant of ecological systems theory (PVEST): Charting its origin and impact" (2023). Kean Publications. 149.
https://digitalcommons.kean.edu/keanpublications/149