1. Chapter 14
Applying Extinction

2. Functional and Nonaversive Treatments
Extinction
Differential reinforcement
Antecedent manipulations
Functional = based on functional assessment information (alter antecedents and/or consequences)
Nonaversive = do not involve punishment procedures
These treatments are the first choice for decreasing problem behaviors
More restrictive treatments are used only when functional/nonaversive treatments fail
Extinction, differential reinforcement, and antecedent manipulations are used together

3. Variations of Extinction
Extinction of behavior maintained by social positive reinforcement
Extinction of behavior maintained by social negative reinforcement
Extinction of behavior maintained by automatic positive reinforcement
Extinction of behavior maintained by automatic negative reinforcement

4. Using Extinction 1. Implement data collection
2. Conduct a functional assessment to identify the reinforcer for the problem behavior
3. Eliminate the reinforcer for the problem behavior
** Important considerations **
- Have you identified the reinforcer?
(Extinction must be functional)
- Can you eliminate the reinforcer?
(Is the reinforcer under your control?)
- Is it safe to use extinction?
(Is the behavior dangerous?)
- Can you tolerate an extinction burst?
(How bad will the behavior get?)
- Can you be consistent?
(Will everyone use extinction? All the time?)

5. Using Extinction (Con’t)
4. Consider the schedule of reinforcement prior to extinction
- Less resistance to extinction following CRF
- Extinction decreases behavior more slowly following intermittent reinforcement
5. Use differential reinforcement
- Reinforce an alternative behavior to replace the problem behavior
6. Take steps to promote generalization and maintenance
- Use extinction in all relevant circumstances
- Extinction used by everyone, all the time
- Continue to use extinction over time long after the problem behavior has decreased