emotional distress

noun

emo·tion·al distress

Legal Definition of emotional distress

: a highly unpleasant emotional reaction (as anguish, humiliation, or fury) which results from another's conduct and for which damages may be sought

— called also emotional harm, mental anguish, mental distress, mental disturbance, mental suffering

— see also outrage, zone of danger

Note: Damages may be recoverable for emotional distress that is caused intentionally or negligently. Recovery for negligent infliction of emotional distress often requires that the plaintiff suffer a physical injury as well.

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Cite this Entry

“Emotional distress.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/emotional%20distress. Accessed 13 Aug. 2022.

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