Chapter 14 - Applying Extinction

Question 1

What are the steps of how to apply extinction?

Answer 1

1. Define problem behaviours (define target behaviour) and collect (baseline) data
2. Conduct a functional assessment to identify reinforcement for the problem behaviour
3. Eliminate the reinforcement for the problem behaviour (problems like aggression and self-injury that are destructive or harmful raise ethical issues)
4. Consider schedule of reinforcement for problem behaviour
5. Reinforce alternative behaviours
6. Promote generalization (target behaviour occurs across different situations that differ from the training situation, use in all relevant settings and circumstances) and maintenance (behaviour change persists over time after the modification program ends)

Question 2

When should we not apply extinction?

Answer 2

Group settings and imitation:
- Behaviour placed on extinction typically causes an extinction burst and novel behaviours that may be imitated by others
- It can be difficult to manage extinction bursts and novel behaviours emitted by several people at once

Extreme behaviours:
- Some behaviours are harmful to people or destructive of property
- These should be modified with the most rapid procedures available
- Due to its gradual nature, the use of extinction by itself is not recommended