How is negligence defined in the context of the C-37 exam?

Negligence, in the context of the C-37 exam, is defined as the failure to meet the accepted standard of care. This means that a person or professional did not act with the level of caution or attention that a reasonably prudent individual would have applied in a similar situation. This lack of adherence to the necessary standard can lead to harm or injury, justifying a claim of negligence.

Understanding negligence through this definition is crucial for professionals, as it establishes a benchmark against which actions are measured. Meeting the standard of care requires being informed and proactive; failure to do so can result in liability or legal consequences. The other options presented do not capture the essence of negligence accurately; being overly cautious or providing excessive care, for instance, may indicate diligence rather than negligence. Therefore, the failure to meet the standard of care is the core of what constitutes negligent behavior, making it the correct answer.