"Put under duress" refers to the act of subjecting someone to extreme pressure, coercion, or force in order to make them comply with a demand or perform a specific action against their will. It involves creating a situation that instills fear, intimidation, or threat of harm, leaving the individual feeling compelled to act in a certain way due to the overwhelming stress or fear they are experiencing.
The term "duress" stems from the Latin word "duritia," meaning "hardship" or "severity," indicating a condition of extreme circumstances imposed on an individual. When someone is put under duress, their ability to make free and voluntary decisions becomes compromised as they are manipulated by external influences that limit their choices.
This phrase commonly finds application in various contexts, such as legal, psychological, and social. In a legal setting, "putting someone under duress" refers to compelling or forcing someone into committing a specific act against their will, often rendering any subsequent agreement or contract invalid as it was not entered into willingly.
Psychologically, being put under duress can lead to heightened stress, anxiety, and emotional distress. The individual may experience a sense of being manipulated, feeling helpless or trapped, and facing potential harmful consequences if they do not comply with the demands imposed upon them.
In social contexts, "putting someone under duress" implies subjecting an individual to intense social pressure that can threaten their personal boundaries, autonomy, or values. This may include situations like bullying, blackmail, or coercive tactics targeting individuals to engage in activities they do not desire or that go against their principles.
