Coercion in research can be described as:

Coercion in research specifically refers to the act of using intimidation or force to compel individuals to participate in a study against their will. This means that if individuals are pressured or frightened into participating—whether through direct threats or manipulative tactics—they are not providing genuine consent. Consent must be free, informed, and voluntary; if coercion is involved, the integrity of the research is compromised because the participants cannot make an autonomous decision.

While excessive financial incentives, providing inadequate information, or misleading subjects can raise ethical concerns, they do not fit the strict definition of coercion. Coercion focuses on the elements of pressure and lack of freedom in making the choice to participate, which is distinctly captured by the scenario of intimidation. Thus, the correct understanding of coercion is well represented in this option.