What is the main objective of extinction as a behavior plan strategy?

The main objective of extinction as a behavior plan strategy is to withhold reinforcement for undesirable behaviors. When this strategy is employed, the intention is to decrease the frequency of a specific behavior by ensuring that it no longer results in the reinforcement that may have previously maintained it. This approach is grounded in principles of operant conditioning, where behaviors that are consistently followed by positive outcomes (reinforcement) are likely to be repeated. By stopping the reinforcement, the undesirable behavior is less likely to be exhibited in the future.

This method is particularly effective because it often leads to what is known as an "extinction burst," where the behavior may temporarily increase in intensity before it diminishes. The goal is to eliminate the problematic behavior over time by changing the consequences associated with it, allowing for a more favorable and constructive environment for learning and development.