Which types of discharge from service may lead to punishment of a service member?

The classification of discharges from military service significantly impacts a service member's future, and some types of discharge are clearly linked with punitive actions. Bad conduct, dishonorable, and punitive discharges are specifically designed to respond to severe breaches of military law or conduct that falls below acceptable standards.

A bad conduct discharge typically follows a court-martial conviction for offenses that violate the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), reflecting a pattern of misconduct. A dishonorable discharge is even more severe, resulting from serious offenses such as felony convictions, which signify a total failure to uphold military duties and values. The term "punitive discharge" itself encompasses these discharges that serve as a direct consequence for misconduct.

Other types of discharge, such as honorable, general, or medical, often reflect a service member's performance or health status rather than punitive measures. Therefore, the focus on bad conduct and dishonorable discharges clarifies why these specifically may lead to punishment, solidifying option B as the most accurate choice regarding punitive measures for service members.