Final answer:
Refusing and reporting the encouragement to use performance-enhancing drugs is the ethical and responsible course of action, given the serious health risks and unfair advantage associated with doping, as well as the rules set by sports authorities.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a coach or a team captain encouraged me to use performance-enhancing drugs, I would refuse and opt for Option 1: Refuse to use them and report the incident to a trusted authority. The use of performance-enhancing substances is banned by most international sports organizations including the International Olympic Committee due to the health risks and ethical concerns. These substances, such as anabolic steroids and artificial hormones like erythropoietin and human growth hormone, are illegal for nonmedical purposes and can have serious side effects, including cardiovascular disease, liver damage, aggressive behavior, infertility, and possibly death. Furthermore, doping goes against the 'spirit of sport' and is considered cheating as it gives an unfair advantage to users over nonusers.
Option 4, seeking advice from a mentor or sports ethics expert, could be a supplemental step to take after refusing and reporting the incident. This may help in understanding the full extent of the possible consequences and in reaffirming one's ethical stance.
Additionally, the long history of doping in sports and the increasing effectiveness of anti-doping measures highlight the importance of maintaining integrity in athletics. The World Anti-Doping Agency and various national federations, like the NCAA, have strict rules and penalties for those caught using PEDs, emphasizing the dedication to drug-free sport.