Legal Definitions - terrorizing

Terrorizing, in the context of family law, refers to a parent's or caregiver's actions that intentionally or repeatedly cause a child significant fear, emotional distress, or a pervasive sense of insecurity about their safety or the world around them. This can involve various forms of verbal abuse, intimidation, or creating an environment where the child constantly feels threatened and unsafe.

• Example 1: Verbal Threats and Intimidation

  A parent frequently tells their child, "If you don't behave, I will send you away to live with strangers," or "If you ever tell anyone what happens in this house, something terrible will happen to your favorite pet." These statements are not idle threats but are delivered with an intent to instill fear and control.

  This illustrates terrorizing because the parent's words are designed to frighten the child, creating a profound sense of insecurity and fear of abandonment or loss. The child is made to believe that their safety and well-being are constantly at risk due to the parent's actions, fostering a belief that their immediate world is hostile and unpredictable.

• Example 2: Creating a Chronically Hostile Environment

  A caregiver regularly engages in unpredictable outbursts of rage, yelling loudly, slamming doors, and breaking household items in front of a child, even if these actions are not directly aimed at the child. The child lives in constant anticipation of the next outburst, feeling perpetually on edge and anxious.

  This demonstrates terrorizing because, even without direct verbal assault on the child, the caregiver's behavior creates a chronically hostile and frightening living environment. The child experiences significant emotional distress, developing a belief that their home is an unsafe and unpredictable place, which leads to a pervasive sense of insecurity and fear about their surroundings.