<u>to show the reader the Parent's attitude is quite similar to that of their son, Philip.</u>
Explanation:
Recall that in the conversation between Mr. Malloy and his boss, they discussed a trouble-causing issue that was caused by Philip's dad (Mr. Malloy) with his boss. While at the same time their son, Philip is also causing trouble for his teacher Miss Narwin.
So, in a sense, the son (Philip) is reflecting a similar kind of attitude as his father (Mr. Malloy).
