What do social and cultural interactions primarily contribute to, according to Vygotsky's Theory of Cognitive Development?

In Vygotsky's Theory of Cognitive Development, social and cultural interactions primarily contribute to learning and behavior. Vygotsky emphasized the fundamental role of social interaction in the development of cognition, asserting that community and culture are key factors in shaping a child's understanding of the world. He introduced concepts such as the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) and the importance of guided participation, which highlight how children learn through collaboration and assistance from more knowledgeable others within their cultural context. This social engagement facilitates cognitive growth by allowing children to internalize and build upon social knowledge, ultimately influencing their behaviors and learning processes. Thus, through interaction with peers and adults, children are able to acquire new skills and understandings that form the basis of their cognitive development.