What does maltreatment generally encompass?

Maltreatment generally encompasses neglect along with physical and emotional abuse because it refers to a wide range of harmful behaviors directed at individuals, particularly vulnerable populations such as children or individuals with disabilities. This term includes any actions that lead to physical harm, emotional distress, or the failure to provide necessary care.

Neglect can manifest in various forms, such as not providing adequate food, shelter, medical care, or emotional support. Physical abuse involves causing bodily injury, while emotional abuse pertains to actions that harm an individual's self-worth or emotional well-being. By recognizing maltreatment as a complex issue involving all three areas—neglect, physical abuse, and emotional abuse—professionals can better identify and address such harmful situations.