This written assignment requirement is for a paper submitted in APA format, using 12-point font, double-spaced, and attached to the link as a .doc or .docx file. Your assignment must include an introduction, body, and conclusion, and it is anticipated that a thorough examination of this topic will result in approximately 4-6 pages of text. In addition, your paper must include a cover page, abstract, and reference page. A minimum of two (2) scholarly sources must be used.

Because most perpetrators are caretakers, the explanations and abuser characteristics for cases involving the maltreatment of children, the elderly, and special needs individuals typically fall into three common categories: (1) sociocultural explanations, (2) social learning, and (3) intra-individual theories. Compare and contrast the theories associated with each of these categories and identify whether or not the theoretical foundations are applicable to all three types of victims. Provide hypothetical examplfktes to help illustrate your position.