TCOLE Professionalism and Ethics Exam Prep 2026 – Complete Practice Test

The action characterized by using influence over a public servant's decision is bribery. Bribery involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value to sway the actions or decisions of a public official or public servant in favor of the provider of the bribe. This corrupt practice undermines the integrity of public service by compromising the official's impartiality and can lead to severe legal consequences for both the giver and the receiver. The essence of bribery is the intent to alter the decision-making process through improper means, thereby threatening the ethical standards and accountability expected in public service.

In contrast, negotiation refers to discussions aimed at reaching an agreement and does not inherently involve corrupt influences. Custody pertains to the protective care or guardianship of individuals or property and is unrelated to the manipulation of decisions. Testimony involves giving evidence or statements, usually in a legal context, and does not imply influencing decisions in the manner that bribery does.