Read the following passage and answer the question:

Lack of control by parents is also harmful. If parents do not impose any constraints on the adolescents, then they have a tendency to go astray and choose the wrong path, and later become difficult to discipline. Such adolescents feel let down and think that nobody cares for them. Hence some discipline from parents is necessary.

Fill in the blanks with appropriate linking devices which are given below:
They have a tendency _____ to go astray _____ to choose the wrong path. (According to the passage)

Question

Read the following passage and answer the question:

Lack of control by parents is also harmful. If parents do not impose any constraints on the adolescents, then they have a tendency to go astray and choose the wrong path, and later become difficult to discipline. Such adolescents feel let down and think that nobody cares for them. Hence some discipline from parents is necessary.

Fill in the blanks with appropriate linking devices which are given below:
They have a tendency _____ to go astray _____ to choose the wrong path. (According to the passage)

Accepted Answer

Option 3, "not only – but also," is the correct choice for filling in the blanks in the sentence: "They have a tendency not only to go astray but also to choose the wrong path." Here's why this option is appropriate and why the others are not:

1. **Explanation for Option 3 ("not only – but also"):**
   - The phrase "not only – but also" is used to emphasize that two related actions or characteristics are both true or applicable. In the context of the passage, it highlights that adolescents, when lacking parental control, are prone to two negative behaviors: going astray and choosing the wrong path. This linking device effectively underscores the dual nature of the potential consequences of insufficient parental discipline, aligning with the passage's message about the importance of some level of parental control.

2. **Why Option 1 ("neither – nor") is incorrect:**
   - The phrase "neither – nor" is used to indicate that two or more things are not true or do not happen. It would imply that adolescents do not have a tendency to go astray or choose the wrong path, which contradicts the passage's assertion that lack of parental control can lead to these negative outcomes.

3. **Why Option 2 ("either – or") is incorrect:**
   - The phrase "either – or" suggests a choice between two alternatives, implying that only one of the two actions might occur. However, the passage indicates that both actions (going astray and choosing the wrong path) are likely to happen simultaneously when there is a lack of parental control, making this option unsuitable.

4. **Why Option 4 ("so – as") is incorrect:**
   - The phrase "so – as" is typically used in comparisons or to indicate a degree of something, such as "so tall as to reach the ceiling." It does not fit the context of the sentence, which is about the simultaneous occurrence of two tendencies rather than a comparison or degree.

In conclusion, Option 3, "not only – but also," is the most appropriate choice as it accurately reflects the dual tendencies described in the passage, emphasizing the compounded risk of adolescents going astray and choosing the wrong path without parental discipline.