A coerced confession occurs when an individual admits to a crime under pressure or duress, rather than voluntarily. This pressure can come from various sources, such as intense interrogation techniques used by law enforcement, psychological manipulation, or threats. Coerced confessions can lead to wrongful convictions, as the individual may confess to a crime they did not commit. These confessions are often unreliable because they may be the result of stress, fear, or a desire to escape a difficult situation. Legal systems, including those in the United States, have recognized the issues surrounding coerced confessions, leading to reforms aimed at protecting individuals' rights during police interrogations.