Gerontological theory is a branch of sociology that studies the aging process and the social factors that affect it. Theories in this field seek to explain how aging affects individuals and societies, and how these effects can be mitigated or reversed. One of the most influential gerontological theories is the disengagement theory, which posits that as people age, they naturally withdraw from social interaction and involvement in society. This theory has been critiqued for its negative view of aging, and has been superseded by more nuanced theories that see aging as a more complex and nuanced process.