Extinction Of Behavior Maintained By Positive Reinforcement Works By

Extinction of Behavior Maintained by Positive Reinforcement: A Comprehensive Guide

Extinction, a fundamental concept in operant conditioning, refers to the weakening and eventual disappearance of a learned response because the response is no longer followed by reinforcement. This process is particularly relevant when understanding how behaviors maintained by positive reinforcement cease to occur. While seemingly straightforward, the extinction process is complex, involving various factors that influence its effectiveness and the potential for resurgence of the extinguished behavior. This article will delve into the mechanics of extinction, explore its different facets, and discuss strategies for successful implementation.

Understanding Positive Reinforcement and its Role in Behavior

Before diving into extinction, let's solidify our understanding of positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is a learning process where a behavior is strengthened by the subsequent delivery of a rewarding stimulus. This reward increases the likelihood that the behavior will be repeated in the future. Examples are abundant: a child receiving praise for completing their homework, a dog getting a treat for sitting, or an employee receiving a bonus for exceeding sales targets. The rewarding stimulus can be tangible (food, money, toys) or intangible (praise, attention, social approval). The effectiveness of positive reinforcement hinges on several factors, including:

• The nature of the reinforcer: A highly valued reinforcer will be more effective than a less valued one. What constitutes a "reward" is subjective and varies greatly across individuals and species.
• The immediacy of reinforcement: Reinforcement delivered immediately after the behavior is more effective than delayed reinforcement. The closer the connection between behavior and reward, the stronger the learning association.
• The consistency of reinforcement: Consistent reinforcement strengthens the behavior more effectively than intermittent reinforcement. However, intermittent reinforcement can lead to greater resistance to extinction (more on this later).
• The motivation of the individual: A person's motivational state significantly impacts their responsiveness to reinforcement. If an individual is not hungry, food may not serve as an effective reinforcer.

The Mechanics of Extinction: Why Behaviors Stop

Extinction works by removing the positive reinforcer that previously maintained the behavior. When the behavior no longer produces the desired consequence, its frequency gradually decreases. This isn't a magical disappearance; it's a process that unfolds over time and can be influenced by numerous variables. Here's a breakdown of the key elements:

Extinction Burst: The Initial Increase in Behavior

One common phenomenon during extinction is the extinction burst. This is a temporary increase in the frequency, intensity, or duration of the target behavior immediately after the removal of reinforcement. Imagine a child who habitually whines to get candy. When the parent stops giving candy, the child might whine even more intensely initially, hoping to break through the new resistance. This burst is a manifestation of the organism's attempt to regain the previously successful method of obtaining the reinforcer.

Increased Variability: Trying New Approaches

As the behavior continues to produce no reward, the individual may exhibit increased variability in their responses. This involves trying different behaviors or variations of the original behavior, hoping to stumble upon something that still yields reinforcement. Returning to the whining child example, they might try pleading, crying, or even throwing a tantrum – essentially exploring alternative approaches to get the candy.

Emotional Responses: Frustration and Aggression

Extinction often elicits emotional responses. Frustration, anger, and aggression are frequently observed. These emotional reactions are a natural consequence of the organism's inability to achieve its goal (i.e., obtain the reinforcer). The child who is denied candy might experience frustration and even lash out at the parent.

Spontaneous Recovery: The Unexpected Reappearance

Even after a behavior appears to be extinguished, it can unexpectedly reappear. This phenomenon is known as spontaneous recovery. The behavior might return at a lower intensity or frequency, often after a period of time has elapsed since the last extinction session. The reappearance is usually temporary, and the behavior can be extinguished again if the reinforcement is consistently withheld.

Factors Influencing Extinction

The speed and effectiveness of extinction are influenced by several factors:

• Reinforcement History: Behaviors maintained by continuous reinforcement extinguish more quickly than those maintained by intermittent reinforcement. Continuous reinforcement creates a strong association between behavior and reward, but this association is also easily broken when reinforcement ceases. Intermittent reinforcement, on the other hand, creates a more resilient behavior, resulting in slower extinction.
• Reinforcer Value: The value or desirability of the reinforcer plays a crucial role. Highly valued reinforcers lead to slower extinction. If the reward is exceptionally appealing, the individual is more likely to persist in the behavior even in the absence of immediate reinforcement.
• Extinction Schedule: The consistency of extinction implementation significantly impacts its effectiveness. Inconsistent extinction (sometimes withholding reinforcement, sometimes providing it) prolongs the extinction process and can even strengthen the behavior. Consistent withholding is essential for effective extinction.
• Individual Differences: Factors such as motivation, temperament, and past experiences can influence an individual's response to extinction. Some individuals may be more persistent than others in the face of non-reinforcement.
• Presence of Alternative Behaviors: The availability of alternative behaviors that are reinforced can significantly speed up extinction. If an alternative behavior is available and produces a rewarding outcome, the individual is more likely to abandon the extinguished behavior.

Strategies for Effective Extinction

Successful implementation of extinction requires careful planning and consistent execution:

• Clear Identification of the Behavior and Reinforcer: Accurate identification of the target behavior and the reinforcer maintaining it is crucial. A clear understanding of the reinforcement contingencies is essential for designing an effective extinction procedure.
• Consistent Implementation: Inconsistent application of extinction undermines its effectiveness. Reinforcement must be consistently withheld to achieve extinction. Any accidental reinforcement can prolong the process and even strengthen the behavior.
• Preparation for Extinction Burst and Emotional Responses: Anticipating and managing the extinction burst and potential emotional responses is vital. Providing alternative coping strategies and support can mitigate negative effects.
• Monitoring and Adjustment: Regular monitoring of the behavior is important to track progress and make necessary adjustments to the extinction procedure. Flexibility is key to successful extinction.
• Considering Alternative Behaviors: Identifying and reinforcing alternative behaviors can accelerate the extinction process. Encouraging adaptive behaviors helps to replace the maladaptive behavior that is being extinguished.

Applications of Extinction in Real-World Settings

Extinction principles are applied across numerous settings, including:

• Parenting: Extinction is a valuable tool in managing challenging behaviors in children. Ignoring attention-seeking behaviors (e.g., whining, tantrums) while reinforcing positive behaviors is often effective.
• Animal Training: Extinction is frequently employed in animal training. Ignoring unwanted behaviors (e.g., jumping, barking) while rewarding desired behaviors leads to the reduction of unwanted actions.
• Clinical Psychology: Extinction plays a role in various therapeutic interventions, including the treatment of anxiety disorders and phobias. Exposure therapy, for instance, involves gradually exposing individuals to feared stimuli without providing reinforcement for avoidance behaviors.
• Workplace Settings: Extinction can be used to reduce unproductive behaviors at work. Ignoring undesirable actions while rewarding desired behaviors can improve workplace productivity and morale.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Extinction

Extinction of behavior maintained by positive reinforcement is a powerful tool for shaping behavior, but its successful implementation requires a thorough understanding of its principles and potential challenges. By carefully considering the factors that influence extinction, preparing for potential setbacks, and employing consistent strategies, practitioners can effectively reduce undesirable behaviors and promote the acquisition of more adaptive responses. Remember, patience, persistence, and consistent application are key to achieving lasting behavioral change through extinction. While the initial stages may be challenging, the long-term benefits of eliminating unwanted behaviors through extinction far outweigh the temporary difficulties. By understanding and effectively utilizing the principles of extinction, we can significantly improve our ability to modify behavior across diverse settings and achieve positive outcomes.