Legal Definitions - infliction of emotional distress

Infliction of emotional distress refers to the act of causing severe emotional distress or mental anguish to another person. This can be done intentionally or negligently.

Intentional infliction of emotional distress occurs when someone intentionally causes severe emotional distress to another person. This can be done through actions such as bullying, harassment, or threats.

Example: A group of students constantly bully and tease a classmate, causing them to feel anxious and depressed. This is an example of intentional infliction of emotional distress.

Negligent infliction of emotional distress occurs when someone causes emotional distress to another person through their negligence or carelessness. This can happen in situations such as car accidents or medical malpractice.

Example: A doctor misdiagnoses a patient, causing them to undergo unnecessary treatment and experience emotional distress. This is an example of negligent infliction of emotional distress.

Both intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress can have serious consequences for the victim, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).