What is coercive power?

• A. Gaining compliance through punishment or threats.
• B. Gaining compliance by offering incentives or rewards.
• C. Power based on the belief that someone has the right to make demands (perception-based).
• D. Power based on respect, admiration, or personal connection.

Answer: (A)

Coercive power is the ability to influence actions by imposing punishment or threats of punishment to get someone to comply. It relies on fear of negative consequences rather than on rewards, official authority, or personal esteem. In criminal justice practice, this shows up when compliance is secured through disciplinary actions, penalties, or potential sanctions. This can produce quick obedience, but it often harms morale and trust if overused or misapplied. In contrast, reward power motivates through incentives, legitimate power stems from formal authority, and referent power comes from respect, admiration, or personal connection.