What term describes the act of attempting to force someone to do something against their will?

The term that describes the act of attempting to force someone to do something against their will is coercion. Coercion involves exerting pressure or influence that leads an individual to act in a manner they would not choose freely. This can include threats, intimidation, or other forms of force, whether physical or psychological. Understanding coercion is vital in various fields, especially in nursing and healthcare, as it highlights the importance of respecting patient autonomy and consent.

Manipulation, while it can involve influencing someone's decisions or actions, does not inherently imply the same level of pressure or force associated with coercion. Consent refers to the agreement or permission given by an individual, which is the opposite of coercion, as it involves voluntary and informed decision-making. Discrimination relates to unfair treatment of individuals based on specific characteristics, rather than the act of forcing someone to act against their will. Thus, coercion is the most accurate term that captures the essence of forcing someone to act without their free will.