Spiritual Ecosystems Development Theory (SEDT). A Framework for Adolescent Development in Bamenda, Cameroon

The Spiritual Ecosystems Development Theory (SEDT) provides a framework for analyzing adolescent spiritual development in Bamenda, Cameroon, while addressing deficiencies in conventional developmental theories such as Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory (EST). Situated in Bamenda, a collectivist and faith-oriented society, SEDT incorporates spiritual, cultural, and ecological elements to analyses adolescent identity, resilience, and moral development. This theory integrates concepts from Greek Paideia, Jewish Musar, and transformative developmental theories, focusing on spiritual calling, character development, competence enhancement, and community-oriented spirituality. This study employs a qualitative research approach to examine the impact of interconnected spiritual ecosystems on adolescent development, particularly in the context of socio-political instability. 20 adolescents and 20 Parents, Educators, and Religious Leaders were interviewed.