What is a primary focus of conflict theory in sociology?

Conflict theory primarily focuses on the ways in which power dynamics and socio-economic class relations shape society. This perspective, associated with thinkers like Karl Marx, emphasizes the conflicts arising from the unequal distribution of resources and power among social groups. It argues that social structures and inequalities lead to tensions and struggles, particularly between classes—the ruling class and the working class, for instance.

Conflict theorists analyze how these macro-level structures influence individual behaviors and societal outcomes, proposing that much of social life can be understood through the lens of competition for limited resources. Thus, the theory prioritizes a broad view of social relations, linking large-scale societal forces with the experiences of individuals within those structures, making it a comprehensive analysis of societal conflict.

The other options focus either on individual behavior, which is more in line with psychological theories; the historical development of societies, which is often associated with developmental perspectives; or micro-level interactions, which are typically examined within social interactionism. Each of these perspectives addresses important aspects of sociology but does not encapsulate the core concerns of conflict theory, which is fundamentally about the dynamics of power and class struggles.