Do socks stretch or shrink?

[busy_hands]

I was just wondering if finished socks have a tendancy to shrink or stretch slightly with wear and washing.
I am using a merino sock wool and the sock so far (it is 3/4 done) is slightly tight at the gusset. I think having the needles in the work is making it difficult to gauge the comfortableness of the sock when I try it on.
Hmmm, I after reading several posts here I am considering frogging back to the end of the heel and picking up more gusset stiches. Or just continuing on and making these a gift for someone with smaller feet. What do you think?

[vaknitter]

I'm not sure there is a general answer here to give you - some socks I've made are tight and others are very loose. Also not sure you can guage the fit with the needles in the work...
I would vote for finishing them and if they don't work out for you then take a picture and gift them to someone with smaller feet who will think it's super cool that you knit socks for them.