Which scenario describes duress?

Duress is defined as a situation where an individual is compelled to act against their will due to the threat of immediate harm. In this context, being coerced into action by threatened unlawful force captures the essence of duress perfectly. It involves a person who is faced with a credible threat that causes them to engage in behavior they would otherwise not choose, typically to avoid severe consequences such as physical injury or harm.

This definition aligns with legal principles, which emphasize that duress arises from an external pressure that constrains a person's ability to make decisions freely. The other scenarios presented do not fit the legal definition of duress. For instance, acting under a personal crisis without coercion suggests an internal struggle rather than external pressure. Similarly, acting under emotional distress describes a state of mind rather than coercion by threat. Finally, choosing between two harmful options does not necessarily involve the element of unlawful force or coercion, but instead indicates a situation of indecision or conflict without the influence of threats.