---
title: "Sociocultural Perspective — AP Psychology Definition"
description: "The sociocultural perspective explains behavior through culture, social norms, and group context. See how it shows up in AP Psych Units 6-8 on gender, stress, and disorders."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/sociocultural-perspective"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Psychology"
---

# Sociocultural Perspective — AP Psychology Definition

## Definition

The sociocultural perspective in psychology examines how social and cultural factors influence an individual's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It emphasizes the importance of societal norms, values, and beliefs in shaping human behavior.

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Culture](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/culture): The shared beliefs, customs, practices, and behaviors that characterize a group or society.
- [Social Norms](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/social-norms): Unspoken rules or expectations about acceptable behavior within a particular society or group.
- [Gender Roles](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/gender-roles): The set of behaviors and attitudes considered appropriate for males and females based on societal expectations.