Use no article when speaking about these environments in the plural and general sense. This refers to the category of places or situations rather than one specific instance.
Use the only when the specific setting has already been mentioned or is clearly defined by the context of the conversation. Social Settings
When using the phrase "social setting," the choice of article depends on whether you are referring to a specific instance, a general concept, or social environments as a whole. Proper Article Usage Use no article when speaking about these environments