What does an extinction burst refer to?

An extinction burst refers to an initial increase in the frequency of a behavior when that behavior is no longer reinforced. This phenomenon occurs as the individual may first escalate their attempts to engage in the behavior that was previously rewarded in order to elicit a response. During the extinction process, the lack of reinforcement can lead to frustration, prompting the individual to try harder or more frequently to access the reinforcement, which manifests as an increase in the behavior temporarily.

Understanding this concept is crucial for anyone working in behavioral management or therapy, as it helps in anticipating how behaviors may change when reinforcement is removed. Acknowledging and preparing for this temporary spike in behavior can aid in effectively managing expectations and teaching strategies for responding appropriately during the extinction phase.