What is the primary goal when implementing an extinction procedure?

The primary goal when implementing an extinction procedure is to eliminate the reinforcer after each instance of the problem behavior. In the context of behavior modification, extinction is a strategy used to reduce or eliminate undesired behaviors by no longer providing the reinforcement that maintains them. Once the reinforcement is withdrawn consistently, the occurrence of the problem behavior is expected to decrease over time as the individual learns that the behavior no longer yields the desired outcome.

This approach relies on the principle that behavior is often maintained by its consequences. By not reinforcing the behavior, you create an environment where the individual understands that their attempts to engage in that behavior will no longer result in rewards or positive outcomes. Consequently, the behavior is deemed less effective, leading to a gradual decline in its frequency.

While gathering data on treatment effects, promoting generalization and maintenance, and reinforcing problem behaviors are important aspects of behavioral interventions, they do not capture the essence of an extinction procedure, which is fundamentally about removing reinforcement. The effectiveness of extinction hinges on consistently withholding the reinforcement that sustains the unwanted behavior, making its identification as the key objective critical in a behavioral intervention plan.