What is meant by 'extinction' in behavioral theory?

In behavioral theory, 'extinction' specifically refers to the process of allowing certain behaviors to diminish or fade away by withholding reinforcement that normally follows those behaviors. When a behavior is no longer reinforced, the likelihood of that behavior occurring again in the future decreases over time. This principle relies on the understanding that behaviors are often learned based on the consequences that follow them; if a behavior is consistently not rewarded or reinforced, the individual is less inclined to engage in that behavior again.

This concept is particularly important in organizational behavior, where it can be used to reduce negative behaviors by simply ceasing to reinforce them, rather than by punishing the behavior. For example, if an employee frequently interrupts others during meetings but receives attention or responses that reinforce that behavior, ignoring the interruptions (withholding that reinforcement) could ultimately lead to the behavior decreasing.

In contrast, options involving imposing severe consequences or providing continuous positive feedback do not align with the definition of extinction, as they focus on either punishing unwanted behaviors or reinforcing desired behaviors instead. Removing rewards to increase desired behaviors speaks more to behavior modification strategies rather than extinction itself.