Overcoming Extinction Bursts in ABA

Cracking the code on extinction bursts in ABA therapy. Uncover strategies and insights to overcome behavioral challenges.

By Brighter Strides ABA

June 19, 2024

Understanding Extinction Bursts

To effectively address and manage extinction bursts in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), it is essential to have a clear understanding of what they are and how they occur.

Definition of Extinction Bursts

Extinction bursts refer to an initial increase in the frequency, intensity, or duration of a targeted behavior when it no longer produces the desired outcome or reinforcement. These bursts are a natural response to the removal of a reinforcer that had previously reinforced the behavior [2].

When a behavior has been consistently reinforced in the past, the individual comes to expect that reinforcement will follow their actions. However, when the reinforcement is no longer provided, the individual may exhibit an intensified display of the behavior in an attempt to regain the desired outcome. This increase in behavior can manifest in various ways, such as increased frequency, duration, or intensity.

Occurrence in ABA Therapy

Extinction bursts occur in ABA therapy as a natural consequence of the principles of operant conditioning [1]. ABA therapy focuses on modifying behavior by reinforcing desired behaviors and reducing or eliminating undesirable ones. When a target behavior is no longer reinforced, the individual may initially exhibit an extinction burst as a response to the change in the reinforcement schedule. This burst can be seen as the individual's attempt to test if the previous reinforcement will return [3].

It is important to note that extinction bursts are not harmful to the individual undergoing ABA therapy. They are a temporary and predictable response to the change in reinforcement and will eventually decrease as the individual learns that the desired outcome is no longer available. ABA therapists and caregivers play a vital role in implementing strategies to manage extinction bursts effectively and promote behavior change in a positive and successful manner.

Behavioral Response

When dealing with extinction bursts in ABA therapy, it is important to understand the behavioral changes that can occur during this process. Extinction bursts refer to an initial increase in the frequency, intensity, or duration of a targeted behavior when it no longer produces the desired outcome or reinforcement [1]. This phenomenon is a natural response to the removal of a reinforcer and can manifest in various ways depending on the individual and the behavior being targeted.

Behavioral Changes in Extinction Bursts

During an extinction burst, individuals may exhibit a variety of behavioral changes. Some common changes include:

Increased Frequency: The behavior may occur more frequently than before, as the individual tries to elicit the desired reinforcement that is no longer available.
Increased Intensity: The behavior may become more intense, such as a tantrum becoming louder or more aggressive.
Increased Duration: The behavior may last longer than usual, as the individual persists in their attempts to obtain the desired outcome.
Emergence of New Behaviors: In some cases, new behaviors may emerge as the individual explores alternative strategies to achieve the reinforcement they seek.

These behavioral changes can be challenging for both the individual and the caregivers or therapists involved. It is crucial to approach extinction bursts with patience and a well-thought-out plan to effectively manage and minimize the impact of these behaviors.

Manifestation in Different Behaviors

Extinction bursts can manifest in various ways during ABA therapy, depending on the individual and the behavior being targeted. Some common behaviors that may be observed include:

Tantrums: The individual may engage in prolonged and intense outbursts, expressing frustration or anger due to the removal of the reinforcement.
Aggression: The individual may exhibit aggressive behaviors such as hitting, biting, or throwing objects as a means to regain the desired reinforcement.
Attention-Seeking Behaviors: Some individuals may increase attention-seeking behaviors, such as interrupting, demanding attention, or engaging in disruptive actions, in an attempt to receive the reinforcement they are accustomed to.
Self-Harm: In some cases, extinction bursts can escalate to self-harming behaviors, particularly with younger children. It is essential to closely monitor and intervene to ensure the safety of the individual.

Understanding the specific behaviors that may arise during extinction bursts can help therapists and caregivers implement appropriate strategies to address and redirect these behaviors effectively. By carefully observing and analyzing the individual's responses, therapists can tailor interventions to promote positive behavior change and ultimately reduce the occurrence of extinction bursts.

Strategies for Management

When it comes to managing extinction bursts in ABA therapy, there are various therapeutic approaches and strategies that can be employed to effectively navigate through these challenging behavioral phases.

Therapeutic Approaches

Staying calm and maintaining consistency are vital components of managing extinction bursts in ABA therapy. It's important for therapists and caregivers to remain composed and not reinforce the undesired behavior. By avoiding reinforcement, the individual learns that the behavior will not lead to the expected outcome, ultimately reducing the occurrence of the extinction burst.

In addition, providing alternative behaviors and reinforcing positive behaviors immediately can help redirect the individual's focus and encourage the development of more appropriate responses. By offering alternative options and reinforcing positive choices, therapists can gradually replace the undesired behavior with more desirable and socially acceptable actions.

Handling Extinction Bursts Effectively

Consistency and effective implementation of strategies are key to managing extinction bursts in ABA therapy. Here are some practical tips for handling extinction bursts effectively:

Remain Calm: During an extinction burst, it's crucial to remain calm and composed. Reacting strongly or becoming frustrated may inadvertently reinforce the undesired behavior and prolong the burst. By staying calm, therapists can help create a stable and supportive environment for the individual.
Be Consistent: Consistency is essential in ABA therapy when managing extinction bursts. It's important to adhere to the extinction procedure without wavering. Any inconsistency can lead to confusion for the individual, potentially reinforcing the undesired behavior.
Implement Reinforcement Schedules: Reinforcement schedules play a crucial role in managing extinction bursts. By providing consistent reinforcement for desired behaviors, therapists can help individuals understand the importance of positive actions and gradually reduce the occurrence of the extinction burst. Reinforcing positive behaviors immediately after they occur reinforces the desired outcomes.
Provide Visual Supports: Visual supports, such as visual schedules or social stories, can assist individuals in understanding the expectations and desired behaviors. These visual aids can provide clarity and support during the extinction burst phase, helping individuals navigate through the process more effectively.
Involve Parents and Caregivers: Collaborating with parents and caregivers is crucial in managing extinction bursts. By providing them with strategies and guidance, they can implement consistent approaches at home, reinforcing positive behaviors and supporting the individual's progress.

To ensure the effectiveness of these strategies, it is recommended to conduct a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) to identify the underlying functions of the behavior. This assessment helps therapists tailor interventions to the individual's specific needs, improving the overall management of extinction bursts in ABA therapy.

By implementing these therapeutic approaches and strategies, therapists and caregivers can effectively manage extinction bursts, promote positive behavior change, and support individuals on their journey towards achieving their goals in ABA therapy.

Factors Influencing Extinction Bursts

Extinction bursts, a phenomenon observed in ABA therapy, can be influenced by various factors. Understanding these factors is crucial in effectively managing and addressing extinction bursts.

Environmental Impact

The environment plays a significant role in the occurrence and intensity of extinction bursts. Changes in the environment can trigger heightened emotional responses and increased behavioral challenges. Factors such as noise levels, sensory stimuli, and social interactions can contribute to the intensity and frequency of extinction bursts.

When implementing ABA therapy, it is important to create a calm and structured environment that minimizes potential triggers. Reducing distractions, providing a consistent routine, and ensuring a supportive and positive atmosphere can help mitigate the impact of the environment on extinction bursts.

Previous Reinforcement History

Extinction bursts occur due to the principles of operant conditioning. When a behavior has been consistently reinforced in the past, the removal of reinforcement creates a state of frustration and confusion. This leads to an increase in aversive emotions and escalated behavior in an attempt to regain the lost reinforcement.

The history of reinforcement for a specific behavior influences the intensity and duration of extinction bursts. The stronger the reinforcement history, the more pronounced the extinction burst may be. It is important to consider individual reinforcement histories when implementing ABA therapy and developing strategies to manage extinction bursts.

Understanding and addressing the factors that influence extinction bursts can contribute to more effective ABA therapy. By creating a supportive environment and considering previous reinforcement histories, therapists can help individuals navigate through the temporary increase in challenging behaviors and work towards lasting behavior change.

Practical Interventions

When it comes to addressing and managing extinction bursts in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, several practical interventions can be implemented. Two effective strategies include conducting a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) and teaching communication skills.

Functional Behavior Assessment

Conducting a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) is a crucial step in effectively addressing and managing extinction bursts in ABA therapy. An FBA helps identify antecedents, behaviors, and consequences that contribute to challenging behaviors, providing insights into the reasons behind extinction bursts and guiding intervention strategies. By understanding the function or purpose of the challenging behavior, therapists can design targeted interventions that address the underlying causes.

During an FBA, data is collected on the antecedents (triggers) that precede the challenging behavior, the behavior itself, and the consequences that follow the behavior. This comprehensive assessment provides valuable information about the environmental factors that influence the occurrence and maintenance of the behavior. With this knowledge, therapists can develop individualized intervention plans that focus on preventing extinction bursts and promoting alternative, more appropriate behaviors.

Teaching Communication Skills

Teaching functional communication skills is another effective strategy to decrease challenging behaviors during extinction bursts. Providing individuals with alternative ways to communicate their needs and wants reduces their reliance on challenging behaviors and fosters more appropriate and socially acceptable forms of expression.

Therapists can work with individuals in ABA therapy to develop and reinforce functional communication skills. This may involve teaching sign language, picture exchange systems, or using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices. By equipping individuals with effective communication methods, they can express their desires, needs, and emotions without resorting to challenging behaviors.

Moreover, teaching communication skills helps individuals feel more empowered and in control of their environment, reducing frustration and the likelihood of engaging in extinction bursts. By addressing communication deficits, therapists can create an environment that promotes effective communication and reduces the occurrence of challenging behaviors.

By implementing practical interventions such as conducting a Functional Behavior Assessment and teaching communication skills, therapists can effectively manage and address extinction bursts in ABA therapy. These interventions provide valuable insights into the function of challenging behaviors and equip individuals with alternative ways to express themselves, leading to more positive and effective outcomes in therapy.

Theoretical Insights

To fully understand extinction bursts in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), it is important to explore the theoretical insights that shed light on this phenomenon. Two key theoretical concepts that provide valuable insights are the Temporally Weighted Matching Law (TWML) and the dynamics of extinction bursts.

Temporally Weighted Matching Law

The Temporally Weighted Matching Law (TWML) is a refined version of the matching law that incorporates the effects of reinforcement history and explains the temporal patterns of extinction bursts. According to the TWML, the value of a response option is determined by weighting all known previously experienced reinforcement rates according to their relative recencies. This means that recent reinforcement experiences have a greater influence on current responding.

The TWML suggests that during extinction, the value of the target response decreases over time as older reinforcement experiences are replaced by experiences with extinction. As a result, extinction bursts tend to be short-lived and decrease rapidly as time in extinction increases [6]. This temporal weighting of reinforcement history helps explain the dynamics of extinction bursts and their eventual decline.

Dynamics of Extinction Bursts

Extinction bursts can occur during differential reinforcement of alternative (DRA) treatments, particularly during periods of nonreinforcement for the alternative response. The TWML predicts that bursts occur when the value of the target response is high compared to the value of the alternative response and reinforcer consumption is temporarily unavailable.

During extinction bursts, the target behavior may increase in frequency, intensity, or duration as the individual engages in an escalated effort to receive the previously expected reinforcement. This burst of behavior is a natural response to the removal of reinforcement and represents an attempt to regain the reinforcing consequences associated with the behavior.

Understanding the theoretical underpinnings of extinction bursts, including the TWML and the dynamics of these bursts, provides valuable insight into the phenomenon. By considering the effects of reinforcement history and the temporal patterns of responding, behavior analysts can develop more effective strategies to manage and address extinction bursts in ABA therapy.