Extinction Of Automatically Reinforced Behavior May Include Use Of Special

Extinction of Automatically Reinforced Behavior: A Comprehensive Guide

The extinction of automatically reinforced behavior presents unique challenges compared to the extinction of behavior maintained by social reinforcement. Automatically reinforced behaviors, by definition, are those maintained by sensory consequences inherent in the behavior itself. This means the behavior itself is the reward, unlike behaviors reinforced by praise, attention, or tangible items. Understanding the nuances of automatically reinforced behavior and effective extinction strategies is crucial for successful intervention. This article delves into the complexities of extinguishing these behaviors, exploring various techniques, considerations, and potential pitfalls.

Understanding Automatically Reinforced Behavior

Before diving into extinction procedures, it's vital to thoroughly understand the nature of automatically reinforced behavior. These behaviors produce their own reinforcement; they feel good, are stimulating, or provide a sense of control. Common examples include:

Stereotypy: Repetitive, seemingly purposeless movements like hand flapping, rocking, or self-biting. These actions might provide sensory stimulation or reduce anxiety.
Self-injurious behavior (SIB): Actions that cause physical harm, such as head-banging, skin picking, or biting. This might be due to sensory input, emotional regulation, or escape from aversive stimuli.
Vocalizations: Repetitive sounds or vocalizations that are not functional communication. The act of vocalizing itself is reinforcing.
Manipulative behaviors: Repeatedly handling objects, fidgeting with clothes, or playing with hair. These behaviors offer sensory feedback or reduce anxiety.

These behaviors can be challenging to extinguish because the reinforcement isn't easily removed or controlled. Removing external reinforcers (like attention) might not be effective, as the behavior is inherently self-reinforcing.

Identifying the Reinforcing Stimulus

The crucial first step in extinguishing automatically reinforced behavior is pinpointing why the behavior is reinforcing. This often requires careful observation and functional behavior assessment (FBA). An FBA involves gathering data on the antecedents (events preceding the behavior), the behavior itself, and the consequences (events following the behavior). This helps determine the function of the behavior, providing insight into the sensory feedback or other internal reinforcement. For example:

Antecedent: Feeling stressed or overwhelmed.
Behavior: Head-banging.
Consequence: Sensory input (pressure, pain) that temporarily reduces anxiety.

Understanding this sequence is paramount for creating an effective extinction procedure.

Extinction Procedures for Automatically Reinforced Behavior

Extinction, in this context, involves preventing the individual from accessing the sensory reinforcement produced by the behavior. This is often more challenging than simply withholding attention or other external rewards. Strategies employed often involve a multi-faceted approach:

1. Sensory Substitution

This involves providing alternative, acceptable sensory input that satisfies the same need as the problematic behavior. For example:

For stereotypic hand flapping: Offering weighted blankets, textured toys, or opportunities for heavy work activities (e.g., pushing or pulling heavy objects).
For self-injurious behavior: Providing deep pressure therapy, vibrating toys, or chewable items.
For repetitive vocalizations: Offering opportunities for vocal play, singing, or using augmentative communication systems.

The goal is not to stop the behavior directly but to offer a more acceptable and appropriate way to access the underlying sensory need.

2. Response Blocking

This technique involves physically preventing the individual from engaging in the behavior. It's crucial to use this method ethically and safely, ensuring it doesn't cause harm or distress. It’s most effective when used in conjunction with other strategies. For example:

For self-injurious scratching: Gently guiding the hands away from the face and providing an alternative activity.
For hair pulling: Covering the hair with a hat or using gentle redirection.

Response blocking should always be combined with positive reinforcement for alternative behaviors. Simply blocking the behavior without offering alternatives will likely increase frustration and potentially escalate the problematic behavior.

3. Non-Contingent Reinforcement (NCR)

This approach involves providing the reinforcing stimulus without the individual having to engage in the target behavior. This is most effective for behaviors that are maintained by automatic reinforcement due to sensory needs. For example:

For stereotypic rocking: Providing regular opportunities for movement and physical activity.
For self-biting: Offering regular access to preferred chewable toys.

The goal is to satiate the sensory needs so that the individual is less motivated to engage in the problematic behavior to obtain it.

4. Differential Reinforcement of Other Behavior (DRO)

DRO reinforces the absence of the target behavior. It's particularly useful for decreasing the frequency of automatically reinforced behaviors. A reward is delivered if the behavior does not occur within a specified interval. Over time, the interval between rewards is gradually increased.

5. Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior (DRI)

DRI reinforces a behavior that is physically incompatible with the target behavior. This means the individual can't engage in both behaviors simultaneously. For example:

For self-injurious head-banging: Reinforcing quiet, calm activities that require the individual to keep their head still.
For hand flapping: Reinforcing activities that require the use of both hands, like building blocks or playing with clay.

By reinforcing an incompatible behavior, the problematic behavior is indirectly reduced.

6. Environmental Modifications

Altering the environment can significantly impact automatically reinforced behavior. This might involve:

Reducing environmental stimuli: Minimizing distractions or overwhelming sensory input.
Providing sensory-rich environments: Offering opportunities for sensory exploration in a controlled and safe manner.
Adapting physical spaces: Modifying furniture or adding padding to reduce the risk of injury.

Modifying the environment can make it less likely the individual will engage in the behavior, reducing opportunities for automatic reinforcement.

Challenges and Considerations

Extinguishing automatically reinforced behavior can be particularly challenging due to several factors:

Variable reinforcement: The reinforcement is not always consistent, making it harder to predict and control.
Resistance to extinction: Because the reinforcement is inherent in the behavior, it can be highly resistant to extinction. Extinction bursts (temporary increases in behavior) are common.
Ethical considerations: Response blocking, while sometimes necessary, requires careful monitoring and consideration of the individual's safety and well-being.
Individual variability: The most effective approach varies significantly based on the individual, the specific behavior, and the underlying function.

It's crucial to work with qualified professionals, such as behavior analysts or therapists specializing in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other relevant conditions, to develop a tailored intervention plan.

Special Considerations and Techniques

Certain special considerations and techniques may be necessary depending on the individual and the behavior:

Medication: In some cases, medication may be helpful in reducing the frequency or intensity of the behavior, making extinction procedures more effective. However, medication should be used in conjunction with behavioral interventions, not as a replacement.
Collaboration with caregivers: Consistent implementation of the intervention plan across different environments and caregivers is critical for success. This requires comprehensive training and ongoing support.
Data collection: Regular data collection is essential to monitor the effectiveness of the intervention and make adjustments as needed. This involves tracking the frequency, duration, and intensity of the target behavior.
Functional communication training (FCT): Teaching alternative communication skills can help individuals communicate their needs effectively, reducing the need to engage in problematic behaviors.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT can help individuals develop strategies for coping with the difficult emotions or experiences that might trigger the behavior.
Motivational Interviewing (MI): MI can help individuals increase their intrinsic motivation for change.

Conclusion

Extinguishing automatically reinforced behavior requires a comprehensive and individualized approach. It’s a complex process often requiring a multifaceted strategy that combines sensory substitution, response blocking (used ethically and cautiously), non-contingent reinforcement, differential reinforcement (DRO and DRI), and environmental modifications. Success hinges on careful assessment, consistent implementation, ongoing monitoring, and a collaborative effort between professionals and caregivers. Patience and persistence are essential, remembering that setbacks are often part of the process. By understanding the intricacies of automatically reinforced behavior and employing the appropriate techniques, positive outcomes can be achieved, improving the individual's quality of life and reducing the risk of self-harm or social disruption. Collaboration with qualified professionals is key to designing and implementing an effective and ethical intervention strategy.