What is the main purpose of punitive damages in a legal context?

The main purpose of punitive damages in a legal context is to punish the defendant and discourage similar actions in the future. Punitive damages are not intended to be compensatory; rather, they serve as a form of punishment for particularly egregious or reckless behavior that goes beyond mere negligence. They are awarded in addition to compensatory damages, which are designed to reimburse the victim for actual losses incurred.

By imposing punitive damages, the legal system aims to deter the defendant and others from engaging in similar conduct that could harm others. The idea is that by making an example of the defendant, it will reduce the likelihood of such harmful actions occurring in the future. This serves a broader societal function by upholding standards of conduct and reinforcing accountability.

Compensatory damages focus on making the victim whole for their losses, while rehabilitative measures address offenders' behaviors and characteristics. However, those are not the purposes of punitive damages. The focus is squarely on punishment and deterrence, making this choice the most accurate in capturing the essence of punitive damages.