Final answer:
The onset of social interaction begins well before the preschool years, as infants and toddlers engage in basic social behaviors. During preschool years, children increase their capacity for social interaction through play and relationship building. As they grow into adolescence, peer groups play a vital role in further shaping social skills and self-concept.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that social interaction begins during the preschool years is false. In fact, the onset of social interaction starts much earlier. Infants and toddlers already engage in basic forms of social interaction, such as responding to their names, imitating the facial expressions of others, and playing simple games like peek-a-boo. Once children reach the preschool stage, their capacity for social interaction expands significantly. They begin to initiate activities, form relationships, and engage more meaningfully in cooperative play.
During middle childhood, peer interaction becomes more complex. Children start to play in mixed-gender groups, learn to cooperate and share, and may experience feelings such as jealousy. However, they also enjoy the companionship of their peers through formal groups such as sport teams.
Extending into adolescence, the role of peers evolves further. Adolescents spend a substantial amount of time with their peer groups, which are integral to their socialization. The peer group contributes significantly to shaping an individual's social skills, self-concept, and values during this stage.