Final answer:
Providing emotional support was rated as the most helpful way of comforting someone in a study.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a study conducted to determine the most helpful way of comforting someone, it was found that providing emotional support was rated as the most helpful. This involves offering understanding, empathy, and reassurance to the person in distress.
In contrast, offering solutions, giving advice, and distraction were rated as less helpful. Offering solutions involves suggesting ways to solve the problem while giving advice and providing guidance based on personal opinions or experiences. Distraction involves redirecting the person's attention away from their distress.
The results indicate that emotional support is a crucial component of effective comforting, as it helps individuals feel understood and validated in their emotions.