maltreatment
Maltreatment is a general term used to describe harmful or threatening treatment of a person in a dependent or vulnerable position. It includes abuse and neglect by caregivers, family members, institutions, or others who have responsibility for the person’s welfare. The term is commonly used in social services, medicine, and law to refer to harm inflicted on children, older adults, or people with disabilities, though it can apply to other groups as well. Definitions vary by jurisdiction.
Maltreatment can take multiple forms. Physical abuse involves harming the body; sexual abuse includes any sexual
Child maltreatment, elder maltreatment, and maltreatment of adults with disabilities are governed by protective services in
Maltreatment can cause immediate injuries and long-term health problems, including mental health disorders and developmental delays
Prevention emphasizes screening for risk factors, caregiver support, education about healthy child and elder care, and