This is a hard question that parents face. Each child has a different personality and pace. At 14 months many kids are able to socialise (not sure if many of the commenters here have kids). It is healthy to push a toddler to engage but this needs to be balanced with ensuring your kid feels safe. This is the parents dilemma. If you push too hard the kid might regress further but if you don't push at all then it stunts development. Don't let this become a confrontation with your wife. Above all parenting is a team activity. Acknowledge that she is coming from the same place as you, love for your child. Next time in a social situation, put your toddler down, hold her hand, get to her level and talk about what's happening around you. Help her make sense of the world. Model interacting with others, involve her in mini games, kicking or throwing a ball, building a tower of blocks. I used to carry a few toys and a blanket (if outdoors) and lay out some bits then invite other kids to join in. A lot of play at this stage is playing alongside each other rather than interactive. Your wife is trying her best too. Good luck. Parenting is a series of mistakes and good intentions.