What distinguishes stool softeners from other laxatives?

Stool softeners are specifically designed to act as wetting agents that promote the absorption of water and fats into the stool, which helps to soften it. This process facilitates easier passage of stool through the intestines and can provide relief from constipation without inducing the bowel's natural contraction mechanisms. By increasing the moisture content of the stool, they allow for easier expulsion during bowel movements.

Other types of laxatives may employ different mechanisms. For instance, some laxatives stimulate the nerve endings in the intestines to promote peristalsis, while others create an osmotic effect to retain fluid in the bowel. However, stool softeners do not rely on stimulation of nerves or increased bowel contractions. They are primarily focused on altering the consistency of the stool itself, making option C the correct choice for distinguishing stool softeners from other laxatives.