Which one of the following types of damage is meant to punish a person for something he or she has done?

Punitive damages are specifically designed to punish an individual or entity for particularly harmful behavior and to deter similar actions in the future. In legal terms, these damages go beyond merely compensating the injured party; instead, they serve as a form of punishment for wrongdoing, particularly in cases involving negligence, fraud, or intentional misconduct.

The purpose of punitive damages is to create a significant financial consequence that serves as a warning to both the defendant and society at large against engaging in similar actions. This type of damage is awarded in addition to compensatory damages, which are intended to reimburse the plaintiff for actual losses suffered due to the defendant's actions. Understanding the distinction between punitive and other types of damages is crucial, as it addresses the legal system's approach to holding individuals accountable for their actions and discouraging future misconduct.