Read this paragraph from a rhetorical text that claims that hate speech should be regulated. In fact, empirical data suggest that frequent verbal harassment can lead to various negative consequences. Racist hate speech has been linked to cigarette smoking, high blood pressure, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, and requires complex coping strategies. Exposure to racial slurs also diminishes academic performance. Women subjected to sexualized speech may develop a phenomenon of "self-objectification,” which is associated with eating disorders.

Which statement best describes the role this paragraph plays in an argument?

a. The author is restating the thesis of the argument.
b. The author is highlighting the significance of the claim.
c. The author is acknowledging exceptions to the argument.
d. The author is providing evidence as support for the claim.