Extinction

Definition

Extinction is the process by which a previously conditioned response diminishes and eventually disappears when the reinforcement or unconditioned stimulus is no longer presented. In both classical and operant conditioning, extinction occurs when a subject learns that the previously learned association is no longer valid, leading to a reduction in behavior or response. This concept is critical in understanding how behaviors can be unlearned or modified in educational settings, impacting teaching strategies and behavioral interventions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In classical conditioning, extinction occurs when the conditioned stimulus is repeatedly presented without the unconditioned stimulus, leading to a decrease in the conditioned response.
2. In operant conditioning, extinction happens when a previously reinforced behavior is no longer reinforced, resulting in a decline in that behavior over time.
3. Extinction can be a gradual process; behaviors may decrease slowly before completely disappearing.
4. The effects of extinction can be influenced by factors like the history of reinforcement and the presence of alternative reinforcers, which might keep the behavior alive even when it’s not being reinforced.
5. Although behaviors may extinguish, they can sometimes reappear through spontaneous recovery, where the conditioned response re-emerges after a period of time without exposure to the conditioned stimulus.

Review Questions

• How does extinction differ between classical and operant conditioning?
  • In classical conditioning, extinction occurs when the conditioned stimulus is presented without the unconditioned stimulus, leading to a reduction in the conditioned response. In contrast, operant conditioning involves extinction when a previously reinforced behavior no longer receives reinforcement, causing that behavior to diminish. Understanding these differences helps in tailoring educational interventions based on how behaviors are learned and unlearned.
• Evaluate the implications of extinction for behavior modification strategies in educational settings.
  • Extinction plays a vital role in behavior modification strategies by helping educators understand how to effectively reduce unwanted behaviors. By identifying and removing reinforcement for negative behaviors, educators can facilitate extinction processes that lead to more desirable outcomes. This approach requires careful planning and observation to ensure that alternative positive behaviors are reinforced instead.
• Analyze how the principles of extinction can inform the development of effective teaching practices for students with behavioral issues.
  • Understanding extinction allows educators to create effective teaching practices tailored for students with behavioral issues by focusing on decreasing undesired behaviors through strategic removal of reinforcement. By applying principles of extinction, teachers can develop structured environments where appropriate behaviors are consistently reinforced while inappropriate ones are not acknowledged. This informed approach promotes better classroom management and enhances learning experiences for all students.

Related terms

Classical Conditioning:

A learning process that occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired, leading to a conditioned response to the previously neutral stimulus.

Operant Conditioning:

A method of learning that employs rewards and punishments for behavior, emphasizing the role of reinforcement in shaping actions.

Reinforcement: Any stimulus or event that increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated, which plays a crucial role in both strengthening and weakening learned behaviors.