How does the husband attempt to comfort his wife?

• A. He tells a joke
• B. He rubs her back
• C. He rubs her shoulder
• D. He leaves the room

Answer: (C)

In comfort moments, a gentle physical touch communicates presence and care without needing words. A shoulder rub is an immediate, soothing gesture that acknowledges her distress and signals that he is there with her. It helps ease tension in the upper body, where stress often shows up, and it feels supportive rather than intrusive. This kind of touch is quiet, steady, and reassuring, which makes it a natural way to offer comfort in the moment.

Telling a joke might lighten the mood, but it can miss the seriousness of her feelings or come across as trying to dismiss them. A back rub can be comforting too, but it can read as more intimate or potentially inappropriate depending on the situation. Leaving the room would remove his support entirely. So the shoulder rub best fits a compassionate, present, nonverbal way to comfort her.