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Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the application of the science of behavior to real-life situations in order to improve the lives of individuals and those around them. One principle of ABA is extinction. It reduces challenging behavior by removing the response or reward that keeps it going.
While that may sound harsh, extinction is not about ignoring or punishing a person . It’s a carefully planned technique used to discourage certain behaviors that aren’t healthy or productive.
It is generally recommended to pair extinction with differential reinforcement of another behavior that gets the individual what they want or need in a way that is beneficial for them and those around them.
In this article, you will explore what extinction in ABA is, how it works and when it’s appropriate to use for caregivers.
What Is Extinction in ABA?
In ABA, extinction means stopping the reinforcement that’s keeping a behavior going. When a behavior no longer gets the response it’s used to, it typically starts to fade over time.
For instance, imagine a child who whines every time they want a snack and the caregiver usually gives in to them to keep the peace. So the kid learns that whining gets them what they want and it becomes the go-to strategy.
But if the caregiver consistently waits for the child to ask politely instead and only then offers the snack, the whining soon stops because it no longer gets the desired result for the child.
So, extinction isn’t about ignoring the person. It’s about removing the payoff that makes the bad behavior worthwhile, so it becomes less effective over time.
Types of Extinction Procedures
Extinction looks different depending on why a behavior is happening. In ABA, we match the extinction method to the behavior’s function to learn what the person is trying to gain or avoid.
These strategies must be chosen with care and only after the behavior’s function is clearly understood.
1. Attention Extinction
Used when a behavior has been reinforced with attention. The response may involve withholding eye contact, comments, or reactions when the behavior occurs.
For example, ignoring shouting that’s meant to gain attention, while still keeping the person safe.
2. Escape Extinction
This is when a certain behavior has consistently gotten them out of a job they were supposed to do. The task is still presented, and they are expected to complete it, even if they resist.
For instance, calmly continuing a demand after a tantrum, instead of removing it. Note that this technique can be very difficult and should not be attempted without a professional and other interventions in place.
3. Tangible Extinction
Used when a person learns that certain behavior makes it easy for them to access things or activities they want. Tangible extinction means no longer giving it to them. If a child cries to get their hands on a screen, don’t give it to them while they are crying.
4. Sensory Extinction
This works on behaviors that are enforced by sensory feedback. The goal is to block or reduce the sensory input. For example, placing a cover over a light switch if flipping it repeatedly provides visual stimulation.
When Is Extinction Appropriate?
Extinction should only be used with careful planning. It’s most effective when the following conditions are met:
- The behavior’s function is clearly identified. Guesswork can make things worse.
- The reinforcement can be safely removed**.** It should not be used for behaviors that pose serious safety risks.
- A replacement behavior is being taught. For example, calmly requesting help instead of yelling for it.
- Consistency is possible. Inconsistent use can lead to more intense behavior.
- The team is prepared for an extinction burst. Caregivers should understand that behaviors that get results aren’t easily let go. It generally gets worse before it gets better.
What Is an Extinction Burst?
As mentioned earlier, it’s common for behavior to get worse before it improves once extinction is introduced. Often this is how you know you have found the correct reinforcer. This brief increase is known as an extinction burst.
During an extinction burst, the person may:
- Repeat the behavior more often
- Try the behavior with more intensity
- Show new, unexpected behaviors that are generally more extreme
This happens when the person is testing whether the old strategy still works. Since it no longer gets the desired result, frustration can lead to more effort before the behavior begins to fade.
This stage is normal and expected. And it is also quite challenging for care providers. Make sure not to give in during an extinction burst, or the behavior will get even stronger and become more difficult to deal with the next time you try the extinction strategies.
Be consistent no matter how painful it gets in the start and the behavior will usually decrease over time. As always, it is best to work with a professional.
Best Practices for Using Extinction
Extinction works best when it’s part of a thoughtful, well-rounded plan. Following are key best practices to follow:
1. Combine with Teaching
Always pair extinction with teaching a replacement behavior. If a child is no longer getting attention for shouting, teach them to raise their hand or use words instead.
2. Use Differential Reinforcement
Use differential reinforcement to reinforce positive behaviors that serve the same function as the problem behavior. This helps shift the person toward more acceptable ways of meeting their needs.
3. Prepare Everyone Involved
Parents, teachers, therapists and everyone else who’s involved needs to be on the same page and follow the plan. Even one inconsistency can reinforce the challenging behavior and set back progress.
4. Track Data
Monitor the behavior closely. This helps determine whether extinction is working and if adjustments are needed.
5. Plan for Safety
Extinction should not be used for behaviors that are dangerous unless you have a safety plan. Always prioritize the well-being of everyone involved.
Conclusion
Extinction in ABA is a structured approach that reduces challenging behavior by removing the reinforcement that maintains it. But extinction is not a quick fix. It requires a clear understanding of the behavior’s function, consistent application, and a strong support system.
Most importantly, it must always be used with compassion, safety, and ethical care. When in doubt, engage a professional, such as a Board Certified Behavior AnalystⓇ (BCBAⓇ).
With the right guidance, extinction can be an effective part of a well-rounded behavior intervention plan.