What does "distress" mean in tort law?

In tort law, "distress" primarily refers to emotional or psychological harm that an individual suffers as a result of another person's actions. This concept recognizes the impact that someone else's wrongful conduct can have on a person's mental well-being. Distress can arise from various situations, such as witnessing a traumatic event or being subjected to behavior that causes anxiety or emotional pain.

Understanding the notion of distress is crucial in tort law, as it expands the scope of liability beyond just physical injuries or property damage. The legal system acknowledges that the consequences of harmful actions can extend to a person's emotional and psychological state, leading to claims for damages based on non-physical harm. This aligns with the evolving perspectives in law that prioritize the acknowledgment of psychological well-being alongside physical health.

In contrast, the other options represent different aspects of tort law that do not capture the essence of what distress entails. Physical harm caused by negligence pertains to bodily injuries, financial loss relates to breaches of contract, and property damage from intentional actions involves damage or loss to tangible assets. Each of these is crucial in its own right, but they do not address the emotional and psychological dimensions encapsulated by the term "distress."