Escape extinction works by:
a. Not allowing the individual to escape what they were trying to avoid
b. Allowing the individual to escape what they were trying to avoid
c. Ignoring all inappropriate behavior
d. Reinforcing appropriate behavior
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: a. Not allowing the individual to escape what they were trying to avoid
Explanation:
Escape extinction is a behavioral intervention strategy used in applied behavior analysis (ABA) to reduce escape-maintained behaviors. These behaviors occur when an individual acts out to avoid or escape an undesirable task, demand, or situation. Common examples include a child screaming, throwing objects, or running away when asked to complete a non-preferred task like homework or cleaning up.
Escape extinction works by withholding the escape or avoidance that reinforces the problematic behavior. In other words, the individual is not allowed to escape the task or situation even if they engage in disruptive or aggressive behaviors. The goal is to break the connection between the behavior and the consequence of escape, which was previously reinforcing the behavior.
For instance, if a child screams when asked to do math homework and this results in the homework being postponed, the child learns that screaming leads to escape. In escape extinction, the adult would continue to insist on homework completion regardless of the screaming. Over time, the child learns that the behavior no longer results in escape, and the behavior diminishes.
It is important to note that during escape extinction, behaviors may temporarily increase in intensity before they decrease, a phenomenon known as an extinction burst. This must be anticipated and managed carefully to ensure safety and consistency.
Escape extinction must be implemented in a structured, ethical, and supportive way, ideally with professional guidance. It is often combined with reinforcement of appropriate behavior (such as compliance or requesting a break politely) to teach the individual better ways to cope or communicate needs. However, the specific principle of escape extinction focuses strictly on not allowing the escape, making option a the correct answer.