APA Dictionary of Psychology

environmental conditions that play a part in healthy and adaptive behavior and well-being or in maladaptive behavior and the etiology of mental disorder and social pathology. Examples of sociocultural factors of a positive nature are a strong sense of family and community support and mentorship, good education and health care, availability of recreational facilities, and exposure to the arts. Examples of a negative nature are poverty, extreme or restrictive occupational pressures, lack of good medical care, and inadequate educational opportunities.