How is "coercion" defined in Missouri?

Coercion in Missouri is defined as the act of using threats to compel someone to act against their will. This definition highlights that coercion involves the use of intimidation or threats, which can be psychological or physical in nature, to force an individual to make decisions or take actions they would not otherwise choose. The emphasis is on the element of compulsion through threats, indicating that the individual being coerced is not acting voluntarily, but rather under duress. This aligns with the legal understanding of coercion as a means of exerting control over another person by instilling fear or apprehension.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of coercion as defined by Missouri law. Aiding someone in a crime pertains to complicity or collaboration rather than coercion. Using violence to achieve objectives can imply a broader range of criminal behavior, but it doesn't specifically relate to the concept of coercion, which is centered on threatening behavior. Verbal persuasion focuses on influencing decisions without the element of threat, thus failing to meet the definition of coercion in the context of legal standards.