Final answer:
The terrorists may be using the foot-in-the-door strategy by making a small, reasonable favor before demanding more from the captive.
Step-by-step explanation:
The strategy that the terrorists might be using when they ask for a small, reasonable favor first is foot-in-the-door. This psychological technique involves making a small initial request in order to increase the likelihood of compliance with a larger request later on. By asking for something relatively harmless like making coffee, the terrorists may be trying to establish a sense of compliance and cooperation before gradually escalating their demands.
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