A macrosystem refers to the overarching cultural and societal influences that shape an individual's environment and experiences. It includes factors such as economic systems, political structures, and cultural values that exist at a broader level, impacting communities and families. These elements can affect education, social norms, and access to resources. In the context of Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory, the macrosystem is the outermost layer, encompassing the larger societal context in which individuals live. It interacts with other systems, such as the microsystem (immediate environment) and exosystem (indirect influences), to create a comprehensive understanding of human development and behavior.