Miltenberger (2023) Chapter 5 - Extinction

Flashcards covering key concepts from Miltenberger (2023) Chapter 5 on Extinction, including definitions, characteristics, and related phenomena like motivating operations and spontaneous recovery.

What is an Establishing Operation (EO)?

An Establishing Operation (EO) increases the reinforcing value of a stimulus (increases SR Value) and evokes behavior that produces the stimulus (Evocative Effect).

What is an Abolishing Operation (AO)?

An Abolishing Operation (AO) decreases the reinforcing value of a stimulus (decreases SR Value) and abates behavior that produces the stimulus (Abative Effect).

What does VR stand for in schedules of reinforcement?

Variable Ratio.

What does FR stand for in schedules of reinforcement?

Fixed Ratio.

What does VI stand for in schedules of reinforcement?

Variable Interval.

What does FI stand for in schedules of reinforcement?

Fixed Interval.

How does extinction differ from operant reinforcement?

Unlike operant reinforcement, extinction results in the weakening of behavior (decrease in strength, decrease in probability).

What is the three-part definition of extinction?

1. A behavior that has been previously reinforced, 2. No longer results in the reinforcing consequence, and 3. Therefore, the behavior stops occurring in the future.

In the context of extinction, is the reinforcing consequence removed or withheld?

The reinforcing consequence is withheld, not removed!

What is an extinction burst?

An extinction burst is an increase in the frequency, duration, and/or intensity of the unreinforced behavior during the extinction process.

Besides an extinction burst, what other effects can occur during extinction?

Occurrence of novel behaviors or changes in topography, and occurrence of emotional and/or aggressive behavior.

How is extinction applied when a behavior is maintained by positive reinforcement (SR+)?

Extinction in SR+ involves withholding the positive reinforcer that was previously delivered after the behavior.

How is extinction applied when a behavior is maintained by negative reinforcement (SR-)?

Extinction in SR- involves eliminating the escape or avoidance that was reinforcing the behavior, meaning the aversive stimulus is no longer removed following the behavior.

What is spontaneous recovery in the context of extinction?

Spontaneous recovery describes the natural tendency for the behavior to occur again in situations that are similar to those in which it previously occurred and was reinforced before extinction.

What are factors that influence extinction?

The schedule of reinforcement prior to extinction (continuous vs. intermittent), the occurrence of reinforcement following the initiation of extinction, and the importance of procedural integrity.

What is the general outcome of extinction on behavior?

Extinction causes a decrease in behavior.