Is Helmut liable for intentional emotional harm toward Bronwen based on his obsessive behavior?

The reasoning behind determining that Helmut is liable for intentional emotional harm towards Bronwen stems from the assessment of his conduct being extreme and outrageous. In tort law, particularly under the intentional infliction of emotional distress, the nature of the behavior is crucial. When evaluating whether conduct satisfies the threshold for liability, it must be shown that the actions go beyond the bounds of decency, causing severe emotional distress.

If Helmut's obsessive behavior is characterized by harassment, threats, or any other conduct that is not just uncommon but also shocking to a reasonable person, it qualifies as extreme and outrageous. This kind of behavior could clearly be seen as intended to cause emotional distress or at the very least, reckless disregard for the potential to cause such distress.

The aspect of Bronwen's reaction is also relevant but secondary; it is the nature of Helmut's actions that primarily establishes the liability. Therefore, if Bronwen's emotional harm directly results from Helmut's extreme and outrageous conduct, the liability falls firmly upon him for intentionally inflicting that distress.