There is little agreement among researchers that punishment has a ______ effect.

A) retributive
B) rehabilitative
C) restorative
D) deterrent

The term "punishment" typically implies an attempt to deter future undesired behavior, and there is some evidence to support the idea that punishment can have a deterrent effect. However, there is not strong consensus among researchers about this effect, as some argue that punishment can actually increase the likelihood of future undesired behavior (especially if the punishment is seen as unjust or overly harsh). In contrast, choices A, B, and C describe possible goals or effects of punishment that are not universally accepted or supported by research.