Damages, in the context of whistleblowing, are broader than back pay. They encompass various financial losses and intangible harms a whistleblower might suffer due to an employer’s retaliation. Back pay is a specific type of damage, focusing on lost wages and benefits. However, whistleblowing lawsuits can also seek compensation for lost future earnings, benefits, emotional distress, damage to reputation, and attorney’s fees. The potential for significant damages awards acts as a deterrent for employers from retaliating against whistleblowers. It emphasizes the financial consequences of silencing those who report wrongdoing. The whistleblower typically needs to prove the employer’s retaliation caused the damages they are seeking compensation for.