Which of the following is an example of coercion?

• A. The use of threats, punishment, and negative reward schedules
• B. The use of positive reinforcement
• C. Voluntary recruitment
• D. Providing fair wages

Answer: (A)

Coercion is using threats or punishment to force someone to act in a certain way. It relies on negative consequences to control behavior rather than offering positive incentives or allowing voluntary choice. The example involving threats, punishment, and negative reward schedules fits this pattern because it pressures compliance through fear of penalties. In contrast, positive reinforcement uses rewards to encourage behavior, voluntary recruitment involves choosing to participate, and providing fair wages reflects fair compensation rather than coercive pressure.