Which of the following theories emphasizes the influence of social interaction on child development?

Social learning theory emphasizes the influence of social interaction on child development by highlighting the importance of observing and modeling the behaviors, attitudes, and emotional reactions of others. This theory, primarily developed by Albert Bandura, posits that children learn not only through direct experiences but also by watching and imitating the actions of role models, such as parents, peers, and teachers.

The key aspect of social learning theory is that social interactions and the surrounding environment play a critical role in shaping a child's development. Through these interactions, children acquire new behaviors and learn the consequences of those behaviors, which further influences their own actions in social contexts.

In contrast, Maslow's hierarchy of needs focuses more on individual motivations and psychological development rather than social interactions. Psychoanalytic theory addresses internal conflicts and emotional development, primarily through a lens of unconscious processes. Cognitive development theory, formulated by Jean Piaget, concentrates on how children construct their understanding of the world through stages of cognitive growth, emphasizing individual discovery and problem-solving rather than social learning.