Final answer:
Malevolent ghosts in Chinese religion are spirits that may cause harm to the living if they are displeased or feel neglected. Daoism includes rituals to protect against and appease these spirits.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Chinese religion, malevolent ghosts who haunt humans are often considered to be spirits of the deceased who are displeased with the living. These spirits can become troublesome if they believe they have been neglected or not properly venerated, which can result in illness, misfortune, or even death for those they haunt. The practice of Daoism specifically includes rituals and protections against such demonic entities, with a hierarchy of spirit generals who would protect followers from these harmful spirits, provided they adhere to certain practices and offerings.