What is an “extinction burst” in sleep training?

Before getting into the technical definition of an extinction burst I want to begin by saying that it is not exclusively related to the “extinction method” of sleep training. However, you could also see an extinction burst happen when using that method as well as any other method that involves changing a reinforced behavior. 

Here is the strict definition of an Extinction Burst:

"Extinction burst refers to the phenomenon of a previously reinforced or learned behavior temporarily increasing when the reinforcement for the behavior is removed. Learning theory suggests the organism is increasing the frequency of the behavior in an attempt to regain the original reinforcement for the behavior. In the absence of additional reinforcement, the behavior will diminish to lower (pre-extinction burst) levels and eventual cessation."

When does an extinction burst happen?

When parents begin the sleep training process, ie: changing a reinforced behavior, the baby may start off doing quite well with the changes after the first couple of nights. Then all of a sudden they seem to protest the new routine HARD and LOUDLY, and parents may be thinking, “what the heck did we do wrong?!”

The answer is nothing-it’s just an extinction burst! The baby is giving a concerted effort to go back to the old way of doing things. Normally the extinction bursts happen anywhere between days 5-10 after sleep training initiation.

How long does an extinction burst last?

With good consistency in your plan, an extinction burst will likely only last 1-3 nights. The best way through this regression is to stick to the sleep training method you have decided on and stay level-headed. Do your best to stay regulated during this time and enlist the help of your partner if possible. You are so close to being on the other side of this hill and all you have to do is stay the course!

If you find yourself needing more info on the topic, or can’t figure the reason for your baby’s night wakings, check out this blog for more guidance!