Based on the above passage, the following assumptions have been made : 1. The adolescent does not feel comfortable with his parents because they tend to be dominating and assertive. 2. The adolescent of modern times does not have much respect for parents. Which of the assumptions given above is/are valid?

1. A. 1 only
2. B. 2 only
3. C. Both 1 and 2
4. D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: A

Explanation

The passage states that parents’ ‘parental solicitude’ often masks a ‘love of power’ and that their opinions are ‘so dogmatic that the young seldom confide in them.’ This directly supports Assumption 1, indicating that adolescents perceive their parents as dominating and assertive, leading to discomfort and a lack of open communication. Assumption 2, however, is not supported by the text. While adolescents may keep secrets from their parents, the passage does not provide sufficient evidence to conclude that they lack respect for them. The focus is on the communication breakdown caused by parental behavior, not a general disrespect from the adolescents. This question tests the ability to differentiate between valid inferences and unsupported generalizations.