Final answer:
Microsociology is a subfield of sociology focused on studying social interactions and group dynamics on a micro scale, and was particularly prominent in American sociology at the start of the 20th century. It includes the study of the nuanced interplay between individuals and their environments, influenced by various social movements.
Step-by-step explanation:
Microsociology was the main focus of American sociologists at the turn of the twentieth century. This field is concerned with studying social interaction on a micro scale, specifically looking at smaller group interactions and individual interactions. This focus often incorporated psychological research and perspectives, elucidating the ways individuals and small groups influence and are influenced by the larger social structures.
Furthermore, from the work of sociology's founders like Karl Marx and Max Weber, who were interested in both macro and micro aspects of work and economy, microsociology continued to be a key area within the discipline. Additionally, movements such as the women's movement and the Civil Rights movement propelled the development of new approaches that required a micro-level analysis to understand emerging social practices. Ultimately, microsociology serves as a critical component in understanding everyday occurrences and the subtleties of social life.