Extinction: Eliminate Behavioral Sleep Problems in Children

Extinction is perhaps one of the most difficult procedures to run simply because one error can lead to starting all over again. As we’ve learned, variable reinforcement ultimately strengthens a behavior while pure extinction extinguishes it. Eliminating a behavior through extinction is possible, but requires all members of the team/family to be on board and see through the burst to prevent from inadvertently reinforcing a higher magnitude of the behavior.
Here are some common scenarios when extinction may be implemented to reduce a behavior:
Training a child to sleep in his/her own bed
Sticking to the word “no” in the grocery store when a child has requested a piece of candy
Teaching students with developmental disabilities appropriate ways to get attention
Ignoring sales people when car shopping
Your assignment:
Choose one of the above or use your own scenario involving an extinction procedure. Write a one-page double-spaced paper identifying the targeted behavior for reduction and outlining the procedure so all lay-people would understand (meaning to stay away from jargon that is from the world of ABA). Include a backup plan if a targeted behavior is inadvertently reinforced and how you would re-train members of your team and/or family. If you use sources, please provide a reference page.