Final answer:
An active decision made freely by an individual is done so out of their own volition. This contrasts with decisions influenced by coercion or compulsion. Congruence and cognitive dissonance relate to the consistency between one's beliefs and actions, impacting decision-making.
Step-by-step explanation:
When you make an active decision, you do it of your own volition. This implies that the decision is made freely, without external pressure or influence. The options given, such as coercion, compulsion, and persuasion, suggest different forms of influence that could override one's voluntary choice. However, volition indicates a decision arising from one's own free will and desires. The philosophical debate surrounding free will versus determinism considers whether decisions are truly free or predetermined by antecedent conditions and experiences. Despite this complex discussion, in the context of the question, an active decision made without external force is done so out of volition.
In the context of cognitive dissonance, when our actions do not reflect our beliefs or self-perception, it tends to cause psychological discomfort because it disrupts our sense of consistency. Human decision-making, therefore, often considers the interests of oneself and others, aiming to achieve a balance between personal desires and the impact on the community or other people involved. In terms of self-perceptions, the concept of congruence suggests that people's ideas about themselves should align with their actions, contributing to a coherent sense of self-identity.