Which term describes an intentional act that harms another?

• A. Intentional Tort
• B. Negligence
• C. Malpractice
• D. Liability

Answer: (A)

An intentional tort describes a civil wrong where the actor deliberately acts to cause harm or to create the perception of harm in another person. The crucial point is intent—the action is purposeful or taken with knowledge that harm is likely. In health care this includes acts like battery (unconsented touching) or false imprisonment, where the harm or threat of harm is intentional. This fits the prompt because it specifies an act that is intentional and harmful.

Negligence involves harm from failing to exercise reasonable care and is not intentional. Malpractice is a form of professional negligence by a licensed practitioner, again not defined by deliberate harm. Liability refers to legal responsibility for damages and can arise from either intentional harm or negligence, but it itself does not describe the nature of the act.