Behavioral Extinction

Full Definition

Behavioral extinction is a learning principle whereby a previously reinforced behavior decreases in frequency and eventually stops occurring when reinforcement is consistently withheld. This process is fundamental to many behavioral medicine interventions, particularly those aimed at reducing problematic behaviors such as attention-seeking, addictive behaviors, or maladaptive coping strategies. Extinction procedures must be implemented consistently and may initially result in temporary increases in the target behavior before reduction occurs.

In Context

• "The treatment plan implemented behavioral extinction to reduce the patient's chronic pain behaviors." — treatment protocol
• "Behavioral extinction of attention-seeking behaviors required consistent implementation across all staff members." — case management note