What is meant by spontaneous recovery in behavior analysis?

Spontaneous recovery in behavior analysis refers to the phenomenon where a previously extinguished behavior suddenly reappears after a period of time without reinforcement. This occurs even though the behavior was thought to have been forgotten or diminished following extinction, where reinforcement for the behavior is withdrawn and the behavior fades away.

Understanding this concept is crucial in behavior analysis, as it highlights that extinction does not equate to permanent elimination of a behavior. Instead, behaviors can resurface under certain conditions, suggesting the underlying learning processes are still intact. This phenomenon emphasizes the complexity of behavioral modification and the importance of continual assessment and intervention strategies.

In context, the other options describe different processes related to behavior but do not capture the essence of spontaneous recovery. The gradual increase of a new behavior relates to shaping rather than recovery, reinforcement of previously punished behavior pertains more to positive behavior change rather than recovery of an extinguished behavior, and extinction following reinforcement describes a different set of circumstances entirely.