Anthropologist Margaret Mead studied adolescence in Samoa during the 1920s, finding it remarkably free of the stress and turmoil common in Western teenagers. She concluded that adolescent difficulties were culturally created, not biologically inevitable. Later researchers challenged her findings, citing methodological problems and evidence that Samoan adolescence wasn't as idyllic as she described. The debate has continued for decades.
Based on the passage, it can be inferred that
conclusions from influential research can be contested and revised over time
Margaret Mead's research methods were perfect
all anthropological research has been proven false
adolescence is identical in every culture
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. Mead's influential conclusions have been challenged for decades.
- Context clues: "Later researchers challenged" her findings; "debate has continued for decades."
- Meaning: Even foundational research can be questioned and revised through ongoing scrutiny.
- Verify: The persistence of debate shows research conclusions aren't final.
💡 Strategy: When a passage describes ongoing scholarly disagreement, infer the provisional nature of conclusions.
Choice B is incorrect because researchers cited "methodological problems." Choice C is incorrect because only Mead's research is discussed. Choice D is incorrect because comparing cultures implies differences exist.