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Maltreatment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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maltreatment

[หŒmษ”หltriหtหˆmษ›nt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

child abuse

The action of treating someone badly or cruelly, especially a child or animal, resulting in physical or emotional harm. Maltreatment can include neglect, physical abuse, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse.

Synonyms

abuse, cruelty, mistreatment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
maltreatment

Use in a formal setting to describe harsh and unfair treatment of people or animals.

  • The animal shelter was closed down due to evidence of maltreatment of the animals.
  • Reports of child maltreatment in the area have increased.
abuse

Commonly used in both formal and informal settings to describe physical, emotional, or verbal harm or exploitation. Often has a strong negative connotation.

  • She finally spoke out about the years of abuse she had suffered.
  • Drug abuse is a serious problem in many communities.
mistreatment

Can be used in both formal and informal contexts to describe improper or unfair treatment. It is often less intense than 'abuse' or 'cruelty'.

  • The workers filed a complaint about the mistreatment they faced at the factory.
  • She wrote a book on the mistreatment of women throughout history.
cruelty

Refers specifically to deliberate and extreme acts of harm or suffering inflicted on others. It usually carries a very negative connotation.

  • The cruelty of the dictator's regime shocked the entire world.
  • Animal cruelty is punishable by law in many countries.

Examples of usage

  • Maltreatment of children is a serious issue that requires immediate attention.
  • She was a victim of severe maltreatment at the hands of her parents.
  • The animal shelter rescued many dogs that had suffered maltreatment.
  • Reports of maltreatment in nursing homes are on the rise.
  • The consequences of maltreatment can be long-lasting and devastating.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Maltreatment can have long-lasting effects on mental health, potentially leading to conditions like depression or anxiety.
  • Research shows that children who experience maltreatment may have difficulty forming healthy relationships later in life.
  • Understanding maltreatment is key in psychology, as it helps professionals create better support systems for affected individuals.

Law and Social Policy

  • Laws against maltreatment exist to protect vulnerable populations, especially children and the elderly, helping to prevent abuse.
  • In many countries, organizations are dedicated to investigating and preventing maltreatment, raising awareness of the signs.
  • Social workers play a critical role in addressing maltreatment cases, ensuring that victims receive necessary support.

Government and Activism

  • Awareness campaigns against maltreatment have gained momentum, promoting social changes and legal reforms.
  • Advocacy for maltreatment victims often involves partnerships between governmental and non-governmental organizations to create safe environments.
  • Education on identifying signs of maltreatment is essential, empowering communities to take action and support those in need.

Pop Culture

  • Movies and literature often portray characters who experience maltreatment, highlighting the societal impact and raising awareness.
  • Notable works such as 'The Glass Castle' and 'A Child Called It' address themes of maltreatment, offering personal insights and sparking conversation.
  • Documentaries focusing on real-life stories expose maltreatment issues, encouraging public discourse and a push for change.

Origin of 'maltreatment'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'maltreatment' comes from 'mal-', a prefix meaning 'bad', and 'treatment', which refers to the way someone is dealt with.
  • It first appeared in English around the late 19th century, combining the ideas of poor care or handling.
  • Similar words in other languages often share the same root, like 'mauvaise traite' in French, which also means bad treatment.

The word 'maltreatment' originated from the Old French word 'maltraitement', which combines 'mal' meaning 'badly' or 'ill' with 'traiter' meaning 'to treat'. The concept of maltreatment has been recognized throughout history, with early laws and societal norms attempting to address various forms of abuse and cruelty. As awareness of the impact of maltreatment has grown, efforts to prevent and combat it have also evolved.

See also: entreat, entreaty, mistreat, retreat, treat, treated, treaties, treatise, treatment, treats, treaty, untreatable, untreated.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,085, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.