Which term refers to the demands placed on a person to maintain autonomy?

The concept of autonomy refers to an individual’s ability to make choices and govern themselves. The term that best captures the demands placed on a person to uphold that autonomy is "load." In this context, "load" can be understood as the cumulative pressures or responsibilities that can affect an individual's ability to operate independently. It represents the various expectations, obligations, or stressors that may challenge one's self-governance and decision-making.

"Power," "assistance," and "capacity" are terms that suggest different aspects related to autonomy but do not specifically address the demands faced in maintaining it. Power relates more to the influence or control one has in a situation, assistance implies external support that may lessen the need for autonomy, and capacity refers to the ability or potential to act in one’s own interest. Each of these terms does not encapsulate the burdens or strains directly affecting a person's autonomy. Thus, "load" stands out as the most fitting descriptor for the challenges one might endure in striving to maintain autonomy.