What depresses Andy as he walks through the mall?

What depresses Andy as he walks through the mall?

• A. The crowds make him feel overwhelmed
• B. He sees a Santa Claus display and is reminded of Rob
• C. The mall's loud music irritates him
• D. He forgets his plan for the day

Answer: (B)

The situation shows how a memory cue can trigger deep sadness and guilt. Seeing a Santa display brings back memories of Rob, a friend linked to the traumatic event Andy’s dealing with. That reminder hits him with grief and depression, which is why this moment in the mall depresses him. The other options describe ordinary annoyances or stressors that aren’t tied to Rob or to a painful past moment, so they don’t explain why he feels so down in that scene.

The situation shows how a memory cue can trigger deep sadness and guilt. Seeing a Santa display brings back memories of Rob, a friend linked to the traumatic event Andy’s dealing with. That reminder hits him with grief and depression, which is why this moment in the mall depresses him. The other options describe ordinary annoyances or stressors that aren’t tied to Rob or to a painful past moment, so they don’t explain why he feels so down in that scene.