In the context of psychological literature, how does the author's portrayal of Sam Clark contribute to revealing the complexity of Carol's emotions?

• A. By depicting Sam as emotionally distant, which simplifies Carol's feelings toward him.
• B. By focusing solely on Sam's perspective, leaving Carol's emotions unexplored.
• C. By presenting Sam as a source of comic relief, minimizing the seriousness of Carol's emotional experiences.
• D. By contrasting Sam's straightforward nature with Carol's internal conflicts, highlighting her emotional ambiguity.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key characters involved in the problem: Sam Clark and Carol, focusing on their emotional portrayals.
2. Understand the role of Sam Clark's characterization in the narrative, particularly how his traits (e.g., straightforwardness) serve as a contrast to Carol's emotions.
3. Analyze how contrasting characters can be used in psychological literature to reveal complexity in another character's emotional state, such as highlighting internal conflicts or emotional ambiguity.
4. Evaluate each provided option by comparing it to the concept of contrast in character portrayal and its effect on revealing emotional complexity.
5. Conclude that the correct interpretation is the one where Sam's straightforward nature contrasts with Carol's internal conflicts, thereby highlighting her emotional ambiguity.