What does to maltreat mean?

To maltreat means to treat someone in a cruel or harmful manner, which aligns with the definition of abuse. Maltreatment can encompass physical, emotional, or psychological harm inflicted upon an individual, often in a way that causes suffering or distress. Understanding this definition is essential, as it highlights the severity of the action, differentiating it from other terms like care for, support, or neglect, which do not convey the same level of harmful intent. Each of those alternatives implies a lack of negative action or intent, whereas maltreat specifically denotes actions that are harmful and abusive in nature.