Which theory emphasizes that social interactions are fundamental to cognitive development?

Vygotsky's Sociocultural Theory emphasizes the critical role that social interactions play in cognitive development. According to Vygotsky, learning and cognitive development occur through interactions with more knowledgeable others, such as parents, teachers, and peers. He proposed that children learn to think and understand the world around them through social dialogue and collaborative activities.

Vygotsky introduced concepts such as the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), which highlights the difference between what a learner can do independently and what they can achieve with guidance. This underscores the importance of social context and cultural tools in shaping mental development. Vygotsky believed that cognitive functions are initially developed in a social context before they become internalized within the individual. Thus, social interaction is not just beneficial but essential for intellectual growth according to his theory.