Malcolm's 2-year-old daughter throws a tantrum when she doesn't get what she wants. Malcolm has decided to ignore his daughter whenever she has a tantrum. This is an example of:
A) extinction.
B) distancing.
C) reinforcement of alternative behaviors.
D) delayed reinforcement.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ignoring a behavior to reduce its occurrence is an example of extinction. By not giving attention to the tantrums, Malcolm is using extinction to decrease the likelihood that the tantrums will continue.

Malcolm's 2-Year-Old Daughter Throws a Tantrum When She Doesn't Get