Final answer:
To put a student's problematic behavior on extinction, it is crucial to ensure that the behavior does not achieve the desired outcome of removing work. Consistent consequences and support measures are vital for encouraging completion of tasks and reinforcing appropriate behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a student's problematic behavior, such as avoiding work or demands, is maintained by extinction of the task, it means that the behavior is being inadvertently reinforced by the removal of the unwanted work. In order to put this behavior on extinction, you must ensure that the behavior does not successfully lead to the removal of the work. Instead of removing the task, consistent consequences that do not involve the escape from the demands should be provided. For example, in a classroom setting, if a student starts acting out to avoid a difficult assignment, rather than excusing them from the work, the student should be encouraged to complete the task with the appropriate supports in place. This may include breaking down the task into smaller, more manageable parts, providing help, or setting clear expectations and consequences that are consistently applied.
Continuous reinforcement, initially used to strengthen the desired behavior, is essential. Once the appropriate behavior is established, it should be reinforced intermittently to prevent the rapid onset of extinction that can occur with continuous reinforcement. Strategies like a token economy can be used, where the student earns rewards for engaging in the appropriate behaviors. The goal is for the student to learn that engaging in the appropriate behavior is more rewarding than the problematic behavior.