What is an extinction burst?

An extinction burst refers to a phenomenon observed when a previously reinforced behavior is no longer reinforced, leading to an immediate increase in the intensity or frequency of that behavior. This reaction occurs as the individual attempts to re-engage or re-establish the previously reinforcing conditions. The individual might show increased effort or intensity in performing the behavior, which can be surprising, as one might expect behavior to decrease smoothly.

This surge in behavior is essentially a manifestation of frustration or confusion because the individual is trying to understand why the reinforcement has stopped and whether they can regain it through increased effort or different variations of the behavior. This concept is crucial in behavioral analysis and intervention strategies, as it helps practitioners anticipate and manage potential temporary increases in undesired behaviors when they are no longer reinforced. Understanding this can be vital for preventing unwanted escalation during behavioral interventions.