What does "extinction" mean in ABA?

In Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), extinction refers specifically to the process of decreasing or eliminating a behavior by removing the reinforcement that previously maintained that behavior. When a behavior is no longer followed by its reinforcing consequences, the individual is less likely to engage in that behavior in the future. This concept is essential for behavior modification, as it allows practitioners to effectively reduce undesirable behaviors by altering the conditions that sustain them.

For instance, if a child typically screams to get attention from a parent, and the parent stops responding to the screaming (removing the reinforcement), over time, the child is likely to decrease or stop screaming because it no longer yields the desired result. Understanding extinction is crucial for anyone implementing behavior change strategies, as it highlights the importance of reinforcement in shaping behavior.