What is the main principle of extinction in behavior management?

• A. Providing consistent reinforcement
• B. Withholding or removing a stimulus
• C. Practicing behavior until mastery
• D. Reinforcing only desirable behaviors

Answer: (B)

The main principle of extinction in behavior management is withholding or removing a stimulus that reinforces a particular behavior. Extinction occurs when the reinforcement that has been maintaining a behavior is no longer available, leading to a decrease in that behavior over time. For example, if a child throws a tantrum to gain attention and the caregiver stops giving attention during these outbursts, the behavior is likely to diminish because the expected reinforcement (attention) is no longer being provided.

This approach focuses on the idea that behaviors are learned and maintained through reinforcement; when the reinforcement is removed, the motivation to engage in that behavior diminishes. It is important to note that initially, when applying extinction, the behavior may temporarily increase in frequency or intensity (known as an extinction burst) before it eventually decreases. Understanding this principle is crucial for effective behavior management, as it helps practitioners create strategies to address unwanted behaviors by identifying and modifying the reinforcement factors involved.