What is the definition of social psychology?

The definition of social psychology is best captured by the understanding that it is the scientific study of how individuals think, feel, and behave in social contexts. This discipline focuses on the ways in which a person's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by the actual, imagined, or implied presence of others. This includes the examination of topics such as group behavior, social perception, social interaction, and the influence of social contexts on individual psychology.

In contrast, other options do not encompass the full scope of the field. While examining social norms and their impact on behavior is a critical aspect of social psychology, it is just one component of a much broader study. The focus on individuals in isolation ignores the central theme of social interaction that is fundamental to social psychology. Finally, analyzing economic factors influencing group behavior narrows the focus to a specific area that does not represent the comprehensive nature of social psychology, which integrates various aspects of human behavior in social settings.