Answer:
Putting a behavior on extinction can be a feasible strategy, but its success depends on various factors, and challenges may arise. Extinction involves withholding reinforcement that previously followed a behavior, leading to a decrease in that behavior over time. Here are some considerations:
**Feasibility:**
1. **Consistency:** Consistency is key for successful extinction. Reinforcement for the behavior must be completely and consistently removed. Any occasional reinforcement can weaken the extinction process.
2. **Alternative Behaviors:** Providing alternative, more desirable behaviors for reinforcement can support extinction. Encouraging and reinforcing alternative behaviors makes it more likely that the individual will adopt these instead.
3. **Understanding the Reinforcement:** Identifying the type of reinforcement maintaining the behavior is crucial. If reinforcement is unclear or multifaceted, extinction may be more challenging.
**Challenges:**
1. **Extinction Burst:** When a behavior is initially placed on extinction, there might be an increase in the frequency or intensity of that behavior. This is known as an extinction burst and can be challenging to manage.
2. **Spontaneous Recovery:** Even after successful extinction, the behavior might reappear after some time. This is known as spontaneous recovery and requires ongoing vigilance.
3. **Social Reinforcement:** If the behavior is socially reinforced (attention, reactions from others), it can be challenging to ensure consistent extinction, as others may unintentionally provide reinforcement.
**Situations where Extinction can be Done:**
1. **Simple Behaviors:** Extinction is often more straightforward for simple behaviors compared to complex ones. Clear and observable behaviors are generally more amenable to extinction.
2. **Controlled Environments:** In controlled environments, such as classrooms or workplaces, where reinforcement and consequences can be managed more consistently, extinction can be more effectively implemented.
3. **Behavior with Identifiable Reinforcement:** If the reinforcement maintaining the behavior is easily identified and controllable, extinction is more likely to succeed.
4. **Collaboration:** In situations where those interacting with the individual are aware of and committed to the extinction process, collaboration can enhance success.
In summary, while putting a behavior on extinction is a viable strategy, its success depends on factors such as consistency, understanding reinforcement, and managing challenges like extinction bursts. It is often more feasible in controlled environments with clear reinforcement dynamics. Collaborative efforts and alternative reinforcement strategies can enhance the effectiveness of extinction procedures.