Written by Beau, MSED, BCBA, TRLC, CCST-I, RYT 200
As a specialist in pediatric behavior, I’m here to share key insights that can help you and your young person empower, adapt, and thrive. Here’s what you need to know-
Ever tried to quit sweets cold turkey, only to find yourself on a Friday night surrounded by a pint of ice cream, an empty tray of Oreos, and regrets? (Oh, just me? 👀)
That moment of pure indulgence is a classic extinction burst—your brain’s last-ditch effort to resist change by going all-in 🧠
So What Is an Extinction Burst?
This isn’t just about dessert; it’s a well-documented phenomenon in behavioral science!
An extinction burst happens when a human continues or escalates a behavior in an attempt to regain the reinforcement they previously received.
Let's look at more examples of bursts in daily life:
The Infamous iPad Tantrum
Extinction bursts can appear when a parent suddenly changes a usual routine, such as taking away an iPad or denying its use after typically allowing it. The child may respond by screaming, crying, or displaying intense frustration.
The Infamous Vending Machine Tantrum
Even adults experience moments akin to extinction bursts. Picture the frustration of inserting a dollar into a vending machine only for the snack to get stuck! The immediate response might be hitting the machine or cursing! 🤬
These are explosive reactions driven by unmet expectations.
⚡️ 4 Ways To Confidently Navigate Behavior Bursts ⚡️
➡️ Prepare for “No Means No”
Once you say “no,” stick to it. This preparation ensures you remain calm and confident, reinforcing clear and reliable boundaries.
➡️ Low Stakes Practice
Regularly create opportunities to say “no” in low-pressure situations. This might looks like: declining a request for extra free time or a preferred activity. Use these situations as a teaching moment to guide emotional processing and build tolerance to tolerating disappointment.
➡️ Be Kind
“I see you’re upset, and that’s okay” - when disappointment arises, validate your young person's emotions while guiding them toward constructive alternatives. Feel free to say “I see you’re upset, and that’s okay, you wanted your iPad." ❌ What not to do: laugh, point, instigate, video, take pictures, or call your young person names - it's 2024 and all emotions are valid.
➡️ Dedicate Time
Responding to a young persons extinction burst can be time-consuming and inconvenient...but it’s essential—after all, growth happens best with the support of others!
Your Solution to Behavior Challenges Starts Here—Let’s Work Together
