Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Practice Examination

Which type of tort involves a deliberate action that causes harm?

1. Negligence Tort

2. Unintentional Tort

3. Intentional Tort

4. Strict Liability Tort

The correct answer is: Intentional Tort

The definition of an intentional tort centers around actions that are purposefully taken to cause harm or injury to another individual. This type of tort involves a deliberate and voluntary action, meaning the person committing the tort has the intent to bring about the consequences of their actions or is aware that such consequences are substantially likely to result from their conduct. Examples of intentional torts include assault, battery, false imprisonment, and defamation, among others. In each of these instances, the individual acted with intent, either to cause harm or to create a situation that led to harm, distinguishing intentional torts from other types that do not require such deliberate intent. In contrast, negligence torts occur when someone fails to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm to another, without the element of intent. Similarly, unintentional torts and strict liability torts focus more on the consequences of actions rather than on the intention behind them, differentiating them significantly from intentional torts. Thus, intentional torts occupy a distinct category within tort law, specifically highlighting the role of intent in causing harm.