In California civil litigation, intentional infliction of emotional distress (IIED) occurs when one party’s extreme or outrageous conduct intentionally or recklessly causes another party to experience severe emotional distress. To succeed in an IIED claim, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant’s conduct was outrageous or beyond the bounds of decency, the defendant intended to cause emotional distress or acted with reckless disregard for the likelihood of such distress, and the plaintiff actually suffered severe emotional distress as a result. The conduct in question must be more than just offensive or annoying—it must be so extreme that it shocks the conscience of a reasonable person. Examples might include harassment, threats, or physical intimidation, particularly when the defendant’s behavior is designed to provoke a severe emotional reaction.
In California, the standard for emotional distress is high, and the plaintiff must show that their emotional distress was not just mild or temporary but was severe enough to cause significant distress, such as anxiety, depression, or a psychological condition. Unlike other torts that primarily involve physical injury or financial loss, IIED focuses on the harm to a person’s emotional well-being. California courts are generally cautious when allowing these claims, ensuring that the conduct is egregious and that the emotional distress is genuine. If successful, plaintiffs may be awarded compensatory damages for the emotional harm suffered, and in some cases, punitive damages may also be available if the defendant’s conduct was particularly outrageous or malicious.
