Final answer:
Symbolic interactionism differs from conflict theory and functionalism by emphasizing immediate social interaction as the primary site where society exists.
Step-by-step explanation:
Unlike conflict theory and functionalism, symbolic interactionism emphasizes immediate social interaction as the place where "society" exists. Symbolic interactionism is a micro-level theory that focuses on the relationships among individuals within a society, and how individuals communicate using a shared understanding of symbols.
This perspective sees people as being active in shaping the social world rather than simply being acted upon, which contrasts with the more macro-level focus of conflict theory and functionalism on society as a whole. Therefore, the answer to the student's question is option c) emphasizes immediate social interaction as the place where "society" exists.