Which of the following is an example of coercive tactics?
CHOOSE AN OPTION BELOW
Repeatedly asking someone to engage in sexual activity after they’ve said “no,” and pressuring them in a way that becomes intimidating or threatening
Making a person feel like they owe someone sexual activity and applying pressure that causes them to engage in sexual activity against their will
Both Repeatedly asking someone to engage in sexual activity after they’ve said “no,” and pressuring them in a way that becomes intimidating or threatening and making a person feel like they owe someone sexual activity and applying pressure that causes them to engage in sexual activity against their will
None of the above
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
Both Repeatedly asking someone to engage in sexual activity after they’ve said “no,” and pressuring them in a way that becomes intimidating or threatening and making a person feel like they owe someone sexual activity and applying pressure that causes them to engage in sexual activity against their will
Explanation:
Coercive tactics involve the use of pressure, intimidation, manipulation, or threats to force someone into doing something against their will. In the context of sexual activity, coercion undermines consent, which must be freely given, reversible, informed, enthusiastic, and specific (commonly summarized as the acronym FRIES). When any form of pressure or manipulation is applied to obtain consent, it is no longer considered valid, and the act becomes non-consensual.
The first example, repeatedly asking someone to engage in sexual activity after they’ve said “no,” and pressuring them in a way that becomes intimidating or threatening, clearly illustrates coercive behavior. Persistence after a clear refusal—especially when it becomes intimidating—shifts from a request to a form of psychological pressure or even a threat. This undermines the person’s ability to freely make decisions without fear or discomfort.
The second example, making a person feel like they owe someone sexual activity and applying pressure that causes them to engage in sexual activity against their will, is also coercive. It exploits guilt, obligation, or manipulation—common coercive tactics. For instance, saying “You owe me” or “I did all this for you” implies a transactional expectation that violates the principle of free and willing consent.
Therefore, both examples describe coercive tactics, and recognizing such behavior is vital for understanding the boundaries of consent and the dynamics of healthy, respectful relationships. The correct answer reflects the importance of identifying all forms of coercion, not just overt threats but also subtle psychological pressure, as unacceptable and harmful.