Final answer:
TRUE; extinction is effective when used with a reinforcement procedure. It ensures unwanted behaviors are reduced after reinforcement is withdrawn, particularly when paired with positive reinforcement of other behaviors.
Step-by-step explanation:
TRUE or FALSE: Extinction should be used in conjunction with a reinforcement procedure. The answer is TRUE. In the context of operant conditioning, extinction refers to the gradual decrease in the occurrence of a conditioned response, typically after the reinforcement that has been maintaining the behavior is withdrawn. This is best done alongside a reinforcement procedure. For instance, continuous reinforcement involves rewarding a behavior every time it occurs, which is very effective in teaching a new behavior. However, when reinforcement is no longer provided, extinction will eventually set in. On the other hand, in a fixed interval reinforcement schedule where rewards are given at set intervals, behavior often increases as the time for reinforcement approaches but will quickly extinguish if rewards cease.
Extinction is an important process for eliminating behaviors that are no longer desirable or necessary. When combined with positive reinforcement of alternative behaviors, it helps ensure that the undesired behavior is replaced with one that is more constructive. For example, the rat in Skinner's experiments that learns to press a lever due to continuous reinforcement with food will stop pressing the lever once the food stops being provided, particularly if a different, reinforced behavior is available.