More specifically, this means emotional support, such as expressions of compassion, and may include access to information or other assistance. The researchers measured social support by giving out a questionnaire in which participants rated different statements (e. g. “I feel that there is no one I can share my most private worries and fears with.”). Then, they conducted interviews every night for two weeks to find out how often participants experienced conflict with others and how often they received hugs. As used in line 28. "giving out" most nearly means

A. distributing

B. donating

C. conferring

D. sacrificing

Excerpt from an enemy of the people henrik ibsen mrs. stockmann. (turns to the hall door, listening.) i expect that is mr. hovstad coming. billing. very likely. (peter stockmann comes in. he wears an overcoat and his official hat, and carries a stick.) peter stockmann. good evening, katherine. mrs. stockmann (coming forward into the sitting-room). ah, good evening--is it you? how good of you to come up and see us! peter stockmann. i happened to be passing, and into the dining-room). but you have company with you, i see. mrs. stockmann (a little embarrassed). oh, no--it was quite by chance he came in. (hurriedly.) won't you come in and have something, too? peter stockmann. i! no, you. good gracious--hot meat at night! not with my digestion, when peter stockmann enters, what does his physical appearance to reveal about his character?