New York Private Investigator Regulations Practice Exam

What does coercion involve?

1. Voluntary agreement to a contract

2. Compelling or inducing a person to engage in conduct by force or threat

3. A legal term for negotiation between parties

4. Providing someone with an incentive to act

The correct answer is: Compelling or inducing a person to engage in conduct by force or threat

Coercion involves compelling or inducing a person to engage in conduct through force or the threat of harm. This definition highlights the misuse of power or authority to manipulate someone's actions against their will. It defines a scenario where consent is not freely given, often resulting in ethical and legal issues. In contrast, voluntary agreement to a contract represents a mutual and willing decision from both parties, which does not involve coercion. Negotiation between parties, as a legal term, also implies a level of consent and cooperation rather than coercion. Providing someone with incentives to act typically involves positive motivation and free will, aligning more with persuasion than coercion. Thus, the essence of coercion is the use of force or threats, making it the correct explanation of the term.