Constraint forces are defined as forces that restrict the motion of a system, ensuring that certain conditions or constraints are met. They are typically non-conservative, meaning they do not store energy and do not perform work on the system. To distinguish constraint forces from other forces, one should consider their role in maintaining specific conditions, such as tension in a rope or the normal force from a surface. Understanding the nature of these forces is crucial for analyzing mechanical systems and their behavior under various conditions. Proper identification of constraint forces aids in the accurate application of Newton's laws and energy principles.