Final answer:
Strain theory and conflict theory focus on the macro-level analysis of societal structures and inequality, while symbolic interactionism examines social stratification from a micro-level perspective.
Step-by-step explanation:
Strain theory and conflict theory both focus on the macro-level of analysis. This level examines the social structures and processes that influence society as a whole, rather than individual or group-level interactions. Conflict theory, in particular, looks at the various aspects of social life in terms of the competition between different groups or classes, emphasizing the wide-scale impact of inequality within societal structures. Similarly, strain theory suggests that societal structures may pressure citizens to commit crimes. Neither of these theories typically operate on a micro level, which would focus on small groups or individual interactions.
By contrast, symbolic interactionism is a micro-level theory, heavily involved with the relationships and interactions among individuals within society. The macro-level analysis of conflict theory might evaluate phenomena like the widening gap between the rich and poor and how systemic structures perpetuate that inequality. Meanwhile, symbolic interactionists might study how interpersonal communication and relationships reflect and reinforce social stratification.