Which term refers to abuse or neglect occurring at an institution, where the perpetrator is an employee or other caregiver at the institution?

• A. Institutional abuse
• B. Neglect
• C. Harm
• D. Emotional neglect

Answer: (A)

Institutional abuse refers to abuse or neglect that happens within a care setting, where the person causing harm is an employee or other caregiver at the institution. The key idea is the combination of a controlled environment (an institution such as a care home, hospital, school, or similar facility) and the abuse coming from someone who has a formal role in providing care. This can include neglecting basic needs, restricting freedoms, humiliating or manipulating the person, or failing to deliver appropriate care as part of the routine operations of the setting.

Compared with other terms, neglect or harm can occur in many contexts, not necessarily within an institution, and emotional neglect is a specific type of neglect focusing on emotional needs. Institutional abuse specifically captures both the location and the responsible party, emphasizing that the abuse is embedded within the organizational system and carried out by those paid to care for residents. Recognizing it highlights the institution’s duty to safeguard individuals and address systemic abuse patterns.