Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED)
Emotional harm can be just as damaging as a physical injury. The law recognizes this through a type of claim called Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED). This legal concept applies when one person purposefully engages in conduct that is so extreme, severe, or outrageous that it causes another individual significant mental anguish.
Unlike ordinary hurt feelings or insults, Infliction of Emotional Distress focuses on conduct that crosses the line of human decency. The law sets standards to determine when a person can be held liable for this kind of harm. If proven, the victim may be entitled to compensation for their suffering, financial losses, and sometimes even punitive damages meant to punish especially harmful conduct.
Key Elements of an Infliction of Emotional Distress Claim
To bring a successful intentional infliction of emotional distress claim, several important factors must be established:
-
Extreme and Outrageous Conduct
The wrongful behavior must be more than offensive or rude — it must rise to a level considered “extreme and outrageous.” Courts often define this as behavior that goes beyond the bounds of decency and would be considered intolerable in a civilized society.-
For example, deliberate lies designed to cause trauma or humiliation, harassment intended to break someone emotionally, or calculated cruelty against a vulnerable person may qualify.
-
The standard is measured against how an “average person of ordinary temperament” would respond. If the average person would experience severe distress from the conduct, it may be legally recognized as outrageous.
However, the law also considers the victim’s circumstances. If someone is particularly vulnerable, such as being elderly, ill, or emotionally fragile, the threshold for what counts as outrageous conduct can sometimes be lowered.
-
-
Intent or Reckless Disregard
It is not enough that the conduct was offensive or negligent. The wrongdoer must have acted with the intent to cause emotional distress, or at the very least with reckless disregard for the likelihood that such distress would occur. In other words, the individual either wanted to cause harm or behaved in a way that demonstrated a blatant indifference to the potential consequences. -
Severe Emotional Distress
The victim must have actually suffered emotional distress — and it must be serious enough to warrant legal action. Minor annoyances, embarrassment, or fleeting sadness are not enough. The distress needs to be significant, often interfering with the victim’s ability to function in daily life. This might include depression, anxiety, nightmares, withdrawal from relationships, or even physical symptoms such as headaches or sleep disorders. -
Additional Damages
While not always required, proving other forms of harm can strengthen a claim. For example, if the emotional distress led to job loss, financial difficulties, or physical ailments, these additional damages may help demonstrate the seriousness of the harm.
Example of Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress
One example of intentional infliction of emotional distress involves misconduct in a nursing home. Imagine an aide maliciously telling an elderly resident that her family had all passed away, even though it wasn’t true, solely to upset her. This type of calculated cruelty is both outrageous and intentional — and it could form the basis of an IIED claim.
Why IIED Claims Matter
Intentional infliction of emotional distress claims hold individuals accountable for psychological harm, not just physical injuries. In many cases, emotional wounds last longer and affect every part of a person’s life. IIED provides a path for victims to seek justice, restore dignity, and receive compensation for their suffering.
Protecting Your Rights
If you believe you or a loved one has suffered from intentional infliction of emotional distress, it’s important to speak with an experienced attorney. These claims can be complex, and proving intent, outrageous conduct, and damages often requires detailed evidence and legal strategy. The right lawyer can evaluate your case, gather supporting documentation, and advocate on your behalf.
At The Helton Law Office, we understand how devastating emotional injuries can be. Our attorneys are committed to protecting victims, holding wrongdoers accountable, and ensuring that justice is served when someone has deliberately caused mental anguish. Contact us today for a consultation.