Society For Human Resource Management (SHRM) Certified Professional Practice Exam

According to Skinner, what does extinction occur when there is?

1. Surprise

2. A desire to do something

3. No response

4. Not feeling any fear

The correct answer is: Not feeling any fear

Extinction, in the context of behaviorism as defined by B.F. Skinner, occurs when a previously reinforced behavior is no longer reinforced, leading to a decrease in that behavior over time. The correct answer indicates that extinction relates to not experiencing any fear, which suggests that the absence of reinforcement is not provoking a negative emotional response that might perpetuate the behavior. In Skinner’s theory, the absence of reinforcement (which can include feelings of fear) causes the behavior to diminish. For instance, if a behavior was previously rewarded when it was performed, and those rewards (like alleviation of fear or anxiety) are no longer present, the likelihood of that behavior being repeated diminishes. The relation of fear in this context provides insight into behavioral motivations and how their absence can lead to extinction. Thus, understanding how extinction works in behavioral terms is crucial in HR settings, particularly regarding motivation, performance management, and behavioral change strategies. Recognizing that behaviors are maintained through reinforcement helps HR professionals design interventions that involve appropriate feedback and support, ensuring employees are motivated to sustain desirable actions.