What approach involves understanding a child's behaviors within their life context?

The ecological perspective is correct because it emphasizes the importance of understanding a child's behaviors by considering the various environments and contexts that influence them. This approach takes into account the interconnections between the child and their surroundings, including family dynamics, community resources, cultural factors, and socioeconomic conditions. By viewing behavior within this broader context, professionals can better assess the influences on a child's development and well-being, allowing for more effective interventions.

This contrasts with other approaches. The behaviorist perspective primarily focuses on observable behaviors and the effects of reinforcement and punishment without considering the broader life context. The developmental perspective examines how children grow and develop over time but may not fully account for the environmental factors that impact those changes. The cognitive perspective deals with internal thought processes and how they influence behavior, often overlooking the external factors that shape a child's experiences and actions. Thus, the ecological perspective provides a more comprehensive understanding by integrating these contextual elements.