What is the objective of punitive damages?

The objective of punitive damages is primarily to punish the wrongdoer for their actions and to deter both the individual and others from engaging in similar conduct in the future. Unlike compensatory damages, which are intended to compensate the victim for actual losses incurred (such as lost wages or medical expenses), punitive damages go further by addressing the reprehensibility of the behavior that caused the harm.

In cases where a defendant's actions are found to be particularly egregious, reckless, or intentional, the court may impose punitive damages as a means to express societal condemnation of such behavior. This serves a critical function in the legal system, encouraging higher standards of conduct and providing a strong message that illegal or harmful actions will not be tolerated.

The other options deal with various other aspects of law, such as compensation for losses or alternatives to courtroom litigation, but none capture the specific punitive aim of punitive damages. Therefore, the focus on punishment and deterrence is what solidifies why the chosen answer aligns with the fundamental purpose of punitive damages in legal contexts.