Which factor primarily contributes to the rift between Amir and Hassan?

• A. Amir's longing for Baba's love leads him to mistreat Hassan.
• B. Hassan's treachery toward Amir.
• C. Baba's disapproval of Hassan's actions.
• D. The community's jealousy.

Answer: (A)

At the heart of this question is how a child’s need for a parent's love shapes his actions toward a close friend. Amir’s longing for Baba’s affection leads him to measure himself by Baba’s praise and to manipulate situations to gain that approval. That same drive pushes him to mistreat Hassan—whether through subtle put-downs, withholding kindness, or later choosing not to defend Hassan when it matters most. Each of these choices is filtered through the hope of earning Baba’s pride, which creates an emotional distance between Amir and Hassan and gradually fractures their bond.

Hassan’s loyalty isn’t shown as treachery, so that option doesn’t fit the rift-driving dynamic. Baba’s feelings toward Hassan are complicated, but the strongest force in tearing Amir and Hassan apart is Amir’s struggle to win his father’s love, not disapproval from Baba of Hassan or jealousy from the wider community.