Which of the following actions could be considered punitive action?

A demotion in rank is considered punitive action because it is a disciplinary measure taken against an individual for perceived misconduct or failure to meet standards. When an employee is demoted, they usually experience a reduction in authority, responsibilities, or salary, which serves as a negative consequence for their actions. This type of action is meant to correct behavior and send a message regarding performance expectations.

In contrast, actions such as a raise in salary, a commendation, or a team-building exercise are more aligned with positive reinforcement or supportive measures. A raise in salary rewards an employee for their contributions, a commendation recognizes outstanding performance, and a team-building exercise aims to enhance collaboration and morale among team members. These actions do not carry a punitive nature, as they encourage and promote desirable behavior rather than address deficiencies.