Systemic perspectives on love in South Africa through the lens of Bronfenbrenner's theory

Emotions, such as love, are affected by a web of systemic dynamics and relationships and socio-cultural influences. In this article, South African, non-WEIRD (Western, educated, industrialized, rich and democrativ) voices on love in the context of systemic relationships are presented. The study uses Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory to explore how systemic relationships and love are interrelated. It uses a qualitative research approach within the hermeneutical–interpretative research paradigm. Purposeful, convenient and snowball sampling strategies are used. The sample consists of 14 South African (Black, Indian, Coloured and White) individuals whereby six self-identify as male and the other six as female. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews. They were analysed through thematic analysis. Findings show that love is impacted through a web of relationships at all levels of Bronfenbrenner’s theory, whereby the microlayer level seems to be the most important in influencing love concepts. Sociocultural, ethnic and gender differences further impact on love conceptualizations. The study suggests that Bronfenbrenner’s theory needs to be expanded with regard to technological and spiritual influences on love in the South African context. Conclusions are drawn and recommendations are given for future research and practice in non-WEIRD contexts.