What term refers to using force or threats to persuade someone to participate in research?

The term that refers to using force or threats to persuade someone to participate in research is coercion. Coercion involves exerting pressure, whether physical, psychological, or emotional, to compel an individual to participate against their will or better judgment. This practice is fundamentally unethical in research settings, as it undermines the principles of voluntary participation and informed consent, which are essential for conducting ethical research.

Coercion can lead to unreliable data because participants who feel forced into taking part in a study may not provide honest or thoughtful responses. Thus, ensuring that participation is voluntary and free from any form of pressure is crucial for the integrity of research findings.