What type of damages are aimed at punishing the defendant, rather than compensating the plaintiff?

• A. Compensatory damages
• B. Punitive damages
• C. Nominal damages
• D. General damages

Answer: (B)

Punitive damages are specifically designed to punish the defendant for particularly egregious or wrongful conduct and to deter similar behavior in the future. Unlike compensatory damages, which aim to compensate the plaintiff for actual losses or injuries sustained, punitive damages go beyond mere compensation. They are awarded in cases where the defendant's actions are found to be malicious, reckless, or grossly negligent.

The intent behind punitive damages is not to restore the plaintiff to their original position but rather to impose a financial penalty on the wrongdoer, reflecting society's condemnation of their behavior. This distinction is crucial in understanding the broader purpose of punitive damages within the legal system and underscores their role in promoting justice beyond individual claims for compensation.