B.11 Identify and distinguish between operant and respondent extinction as operations and processes

Understanding the difference between operant extinction and respondent extinction is essential for managing behaviors effectively. Both involve the reduction of behaviors but work in distinct ways depending on the type of behavior and its triggers.

Operant extinction occurs when a behavior that was previously reinforced no longer receives reinforcement, leading to a decrease in that behavior over time.

Example:

• Luis often yells at his mother when she refuses to give him what he wants. His mother used to give in, reinforcing the yelling.

• Now, his mother waits until Luis calms down and refrains from rewarding the yelling.

• Over time, Luis stops yelling because the behavior is no longer reinforced.

• Additionally, Luis learns replacement behaviors, such as politely asking for what he wants or waiting patiently.

🔑Key Notes on Operant Extinction:🔑

• Patience is crucial: Behavior may initially escalate (extinction burst) before it decreases.

• Introduce replacement behaviors: Teach alternatives that achieve the same goal as the original behavior (e.g., asking nicely instead of yelling).

Respondent extinction occurs when a conditioned response decreases because the conditioned stimulus is no longer paired with the unconditioned stimulus. This type of extinction applies to reflexive, automatic behaviors.

Example:

• A dog salivates (conditioned response) when hearing a bell (conditioned stimulus) because it associates the bell with food (unconditioned stimulus).

• If the bell rings repeatedly without food being presented, the salivation decreases over time until it stops entirely.

🔑Key Differences Between Operant and Respondent Extinction🔑

Aspect	Operant Extinction	Respondent Extinction
Type of Behavior	Voluntary, learned behaviors (e.g., yelling, asking).	Reflexive, automatic responses (e.g., salivating, fear responses).
Trigger	Removal of reinforcement.	Removal of the conditioned stimulus-unconditioned stimulus pairing.
Goal	Reduce behavior by withholding reinforcement.	Reduce conditioned responses by breaking the association.

Practical Tips ✏️✏️

1. Consistency is key: Stick to the plan to avoid accidentally reinforcing the behavior.

2. Expect resistance: Be prepared for temporary increases in behavior (extinction bursts).

3. Pair with teaching: Always provide a more appropriate alternative behavior to replace the extinguished one.

Understanding and distinguishing between operant and respondent extinction helps us tailor approaches to behavior management, ensuring more effective and positive outcomes