Which term describes false spoken statements that damage a person's reputation?

Which term describes false spoken statements that damage a person's reputation?

• A. Libel
• B. Slander
• C. Defamation
• D. Rumor

Answer: (B)

False statements spoken aloud that damage a person’s reputation are slander. This is the spoken form of defamation, meaning it harms someone’s good name through words that are not true. The broader term is defamation, which covers false statements that injure reputation whether spoken or written. Libel refers specifically to false statements that are written or published, rather than spoken. Rumor is informal and can be unverified information; it isn’t a formal legal term for harming someone’s reputation. In everyday care settings, avoid repeating or spreading unverified statements about residents, since doing so can erode trust and may have professional or legal consequences.

False statements spoken aloud that damage a person’s reputation are slander. This is the spoken form of defamation, meaning it harms someone’s good name through words that are not true. The broader term is defamation, which covers false statements that injure reputation whether spoken or written. Libel refers specifically to false statements that are written or published, rather than spoken. Rumor is informal and can be unverified information; it isn’t a formal legal term for harming someone’s reputation. In everyday care settings, avoid repeating or spreading unverified statements about residents, since doing so can erode trust and may have professional or legal consequences.