Episode 14: Mastering Extinction: How to Stop Reinforcing Bad Behavior at Work with Dr. Michael Domjan

The Management Theory Toolbox

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction to the concept of extinction in behavioral psychology.
• Explanation of operant conditioning and its application in the workplace.
• Examples from "The Big Bang Theory" illustrating positive reinforcement and extinction.
• Detailed discussion with Dr. Michael Domjan on the process and effects of extinction.
• Real-world examples of applying extinction to undesirable workplace behaviors.
• The importance of careful implementation to avoid frustration and aggression.

Key Topics:

• Operant Conditioning: Modifying behavior through reinforcement.
• Extinction: Reducing behaviors by removing positive reinforcers.
• Paradoxical Reward Effects: How intermittent reinforcement can lead to greater persistence.
• Practical Tips: Gradual phasing out of reinforcers and managing expectations.

Guest Expert: Dr. Michael Domjan

• Professor of Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin.
• Expert in conditioning and learning with over 50 years of teaching experience.
• Author and co-author of numerous publications (over 200), including "The Essentials of Conditioning and Learning."

Related Resources:

1. Dr. Michael Domjan's YouTube Channel: Learning and Behavior: Key Concepts by M. Domjan
2. Book: The Essentials of Conditioning and Learning (5th Edition)
3. Research Article: R. Hinkin and C. A. Schreisheim, "If You Don't Hear from Me You Know You Are Doing Fine: The Effects of Management Nonresponse to Employee Performance," Cornell Hotel and Restaurant Administration Quarterly 45 (2004): 362-373.

Connect with Dr. Michael Domjan:

• Faculty Page at the University of Texas at Austin
• Google Scholar
• ResearchGate

Upcoming Episodes:

• Stay tuned for our next episode where we dive into schedules of reinforcement and their applications in management.

Join the Conversation:

• Share your thoughts and experiences with extinction and reinforcement in the workplace.
• Follow Travis Mallett on LinkedIn.

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Chapters

1. Episode 14: Mastering Extinction: How to Stop Reinforcing Bad Behavior at Work with Dr. Michael Domjan (00:00:00)

2. Extinction in Behavior Modification (00:00:01)

3. Behavioral Extinction in Conditioning (00:03:52)

4. Use Extinction Cautiously in the Workplace (00:22:32)

5. Addressing Undesirable Behaviors in Workplace (00:27:57)