Social development refers to the growth and change in an individual's social interactions, relationships, and behaviors over time. This research area focuses on understanding how individuals develop social skills, relationships, and identities throughout their lives. It examines how factors such as family, peers, culture, and societal influences impact social development and how these experiences shape an individual's social behaviors and functioning. Researchers in this area may study topics such as socialization, attachment, peer relationships, social cognition, and identity development. The goal of social development research is to enhance our understanding of human social behavior and to inform interventions and policies that promote positive social outcomes.