Extinction Burst
Also called: burst, response burst
Definition
A temporary increase in the frequency, intensity or variety of a behavior when the reinforcement that maintained it is first withheld. It is a predictable early effect of extinction, not a sign that the procedure is failing, and a plan that cannot be held through the burst should not be started, because giving in at the peak reinforces the more intense form.
In plain language
When a behavior stops working, it often gets worse before it gets better. This is expected. Giving in at that point teaches the bigger version.
Example
Attention for whining is withheld as planned. For two days the whining is louder and longer than before, then it falls.
Not extinction burst
A behavior that returns weeks after it had stopped. That later reappearance is spontaneous recovery.
Commonly confused with
See also
Written from
- lerman-iwata-wallace-1999
- lerman-iwata-1996
Written from Lerman, Iwata and Wallace (1999) and Lerman and Iwata (1996). No textbook glossary consulted.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.