Which of the following best captures the essence of emotional distress as it relates to harassment?

The essence of emotional distress in the context of harassment is best captured by the idea of substantial emotional distress without legitimate purpose. This highlights that emotional distress is not merely a fleeting or minor upset but rather a significant impact on a person's emotional well-being that arises from actions perceived as harassing. These actions are typically unwarranted and can lead to serious psychological effects, illustrating that the harm caused is more than just a misunderstanding or a brief skirmish. The focus is on the severity and legitimacy of the distress, emphasizing that harassment entails a deliberate infliction of harm, leading to significant emotional suffering for the victim. This understanding is critical in legal contexts, as it establishes the grounds for many harassment claims, linking the actions taken to the emotional state that results from them.