Which branch of psychology studies the effects of social environments on behavior?

The branch of psychology that focuses on the effects of social environments on behavior is social psychology. This field examines how individuals think, feel, and behave in the presence of others, studying topics such as group dynamics, social perceptions, and interpersonal relationships. Social psychologists investigate how social influences, including culture, social norms, and relationships, shape behavior and mental processes. This might involve exploring phenomena such as conformity, persuasion, and group behavior, highlighting the significant role social contexts play in influencing actions and thoughts.

Developmental psychology, while it considers how individuals grow and change over their lifespan, primarily focuses on the psychological changes that occur from infancy to adulthood rather than specifically addressing social influences. Clinical psychology is centered on diagnosing and treating mental health disorders and does not focus on the broader social environment's impact on behavior. Cognitive psychology studies mental processes such as perception, memory, and problem-solving, concentrating more on internal mental functions rather than the external social contexts that affect behavior.