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

The term "coercion" refers to the act of using force or threats to influence an individual's decision-making process, particularly in the context of research participation. In ethical research practices, coercion is considered a serious violation because it undermines the voluntary nature of consent, which is a fundamental principle in research ethics.

When researchers coerce participants, they compromise the integrity of the research process, as participants may feel compelled to participate against their will, ultimately affecting the validity of the data collected. Coercion can manifest in various ways, such as implying negative consequences for non-participation or presenting overly enticing rewards that pressure individuals to agree to participate. Ensuring that participation is free from coercion is essential for maintaining ethical standards in research and protecting the rights of participants.