Question #N1214

A new study suggests that the more time people spend on social media, the less likely they are to engage in meaningful conversations with others. The research team found that individuals who check social media frequently are more likely to feel "lonely" and have trouble connecting with others in real life.

Which choice best combines the sentences at the underlined portion to maintain the style and tone of the passage?
A. lonely, and they have trouble connecting with others in real life.
B. lonely, and are more likely to have trouble connecting with others in real life.
C. lonely, and they are more likely to have trouble connecting with others in real life.
D. lonely; they have trouble connecting with others in real life.