In behavior modification, what is the intended outcome of using extinction?

In behavior modification, the intended outcome of using extinction is to decrease undesired behaviors. Extinction involves the process of withholding reinforcement that was previously provided for a specific behavior. When an undesirable behavior no longer receives reinforcement, it tends to diminish over time as the individual learns that the behavior no longer leads to the desired consequence.

This strategy is based on the understanding that behaviors are often maintained by the consequences that follow them. If a child engages in a behavior and is, for example, consistently given attention, they may continue that behavior to gain attention. By implementing extinction, the attention (or reinforcement) would be withdrawn when the undesirable behavior occurs, ultimately leading to a decline in the frequency of that behavior.

The other options revolve around different strategies in behavior modification. Increasing desired behaviors typically involves reinforcement rather than extinction, which focuses on eliminating unwanted behaviors. Similarly, reinforcing positive behaviors is about providing incentives to encourage those behaviors instead of decreasing unwanted ones. Promoting adaptive behaviors might involve teaching and reinforcing new, appropriate behaviors instead of just focusing on reducing undesirable ones.