Maltreatment: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

abuse, cruelty, mistreatment

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.