What does financial abuse generally refer to?

Financial abuse typically refers to the illegal or improper use of someone's funds or assets. This form of abuse can involve various tactics, such as coercion, manipulation, or fraud, where one person uses the financial resources of another person without their consent or for purposes that are not agreed upon.

For instance, an individual may exploit a vulnerable person, such as the elderly, by taking control of their bank accounts or using their funds for personal gain without permission. This definition highlights the violation of trust and the ethical implications surrounding the misuse of financial resources. Understanding financial abuse is crucial as it underscores the importance of recognizing and protecting oneself from potential exploitation, especially in relationships where there might be an imbalance of power or trust.

The other choices do not accurately capture the essence of financial abuse; they relate more to responsible financial management, liability management, or neglect, which are distinct from the concept of abuse.