Ejercicio 1 - Opción A (Question 5) · Inglés PAU Asturias Ordinaria 2026

Opción A - Text A

Family dynamics

Family dynamics are fundamental to shaping the lives of adolescents. During this stage, young people often face various challenges related to family expectations, communication gaps, and conflicts over independence and autonomy. These issues can significantly affect their emotional well-being and sense of security.

Firstly, family expectations can be a major source of stress for adolescents. Parents often have high hopes for their children's academic performance, behaviour, and future careers. While these expectations can motivate adolescents to fight for success, they can also create pressure and anxiety. When teenagers feel they cannot meet these expectations, they may experience feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. It is important for parents to balance their expectations with understanding and support, helping their children to feel valued and accepted.

Secondly, communication gaps between parents and adolescents can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts. Adolescents are at a stage where they are developing their own identities and opinions, which may differ from those of their parents. Effective communication is essential for resolving these differences and maintaining a healthy relationship. However, parents and teenagers often find it hard to communicate openly and honestly with each other. This can result in feelings of frustration and isolation for both. Encouraging open dialogue and active listening can help bridge these communication gaps and promote a more supportive family environment.

Lastly, conflicts over independence and autonomy are common during adolescence. As young people try to assert their independence, they may clash with their parents' desire to protect and guide them. This struggle for autonomy can lead to arguments and tension in the family. It is important for parents to recognise their children's need for independence while providing appropriate guidance and boundaries. By allowing adolescents to make their own decisions and learn from their mistakes, parents can help them develop a sense of responsibility and self-confidence.

In conclusion, the way families work together can have a big impact on how happy and secure teenagers feel. If parents can understand and deal with problems like different expectations, not communicating well, and disagreements about independence, they will be able to create a warm and supportive home life for their children.

5. Fill the gaps with the correct, most appropriate word in each case. (0,25 por acierto = 1 punto)

If adolescents do not feel supported or understood (A)

home, it can cause them stress and anxiety, and make them feel less confident (B)

themselves. On the other hand, if they have a supportive family that (C)

to them and talks openly, they are more (D)

to feel safe and valued.