The specialization in Family and Social Psychology focuses on micro level theories and research in sociology. Emphasis is given to: 1) individual processes (e.g., identities, emotions), 2) interactive processes (e.g., socialization, gender relations, group processes) and, 3) relationship process (e.g., kinship, friendship, dating, and marriage) among individuals that shape the actor and influence behavior. Additionally, some attention is paid to the nature of the link between the individual and society, merging the micro with the macro perspectives. The goal of this specialty is to develop an in-depth knowledge of the theories, methods, and research in this area.