(1) P must show D made a defamatory statement (false statement that adversely affects the reputation of P (NOT mere name calling or opinion) that identifies P; (2) statement is published (shared with one or more people intentionally or negligently) (3) P is damaged- depends on type of defamation libel (written statement)- no damages need to be shown, it's presumed slander per se (spoken statement about (1) P's profession/business, (2) P has committed serious crime- honesty or violence, (3) P, woman, was sexually active while unmarried, or (4) P suffers from loathsome disease- venereal or leprosy)- no damages need to be shown, it's presumed slander (spoken)- P must show economic harm for damages