Do Better Pod Live - July 2025 - Interview with Jerrod Zertuche on Kind Extinction
AUG 13, 202551 MIN
Do Better Pod Live - July 2025 - Interview with Jerrod Zertuche on Kind Extinction
AUG 13, 202551 MIN
Description
<p>In this episode, Dr. Megan and Joe interview Jerrod Zertuche about Kind Extinction and the upcoming webinar he is conducting on August 27th. Check it out to learn more! </p><p><br></p><p><strong>AI SUMMARY FROM FATHOM:</strong></p><p><strong>Meeting Purpose</strong></p><p>Live recording of the Do Better Podcast featuring guest Jerrod Zertuche discussing kind extinction and his unique experience in behavior analysis.</p><p><strong>Key Takeaways </strong> </p><p>- Kind extinction incorporates validation and co-regulation into behavioral interventions, avoiding traditional extinction bursts - Mental rehearsal and somatic awareness can help practitioners become more comfortable with empathetic, validating approaches </p><p>- There's a need to shift ABA culture away from "enforcer" mentality toward more compassionate, connection-based practices </p><p>- <a href="https://dobettercollective.com/course/kind-extinction-the-inner-work-of-doing-better/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">Jared will be conducting a webinar on kind extinction for Do Better Collective on August 27th</a></p><p><strong>Introduction to Kind Extinction</strong> </p><p>- Developed by Tarbox & Tarbox (2023) to incorporate validation of emotional experiences without reinforcing problem behaviors </p><p>- Allows practitioners to provide emotional support during challenging moments, rather than ignoring clients </p><p>- Shown to produce gradual behavior reduction without extinction bursts in initial research</p><p><strong>Cognitive Dissonance in Shifting ABA Practices</strong> </p><p>- Many practitioners experience discomfort transitioning from "enforcer" role to more empathetic approaches </p><p>- Mental rehearsal and somatic awareness exercises can help build comfort with new techniques </p><p>- Shift requires vulnerability and relinquishing some control, which can feel uncomfortable initially</p><p><strong>Benefits of Kind Extinction</strong> </p><p>- Improves social validity </p><p>- feels better for clients, families, and practitioners </p><p>- Promotes faster de-escalation of challenging behaviors </p><p>- Aligns with modern neuroscience on co-regulation and emotional support </p><p>- Cultivates safety and connection, enhancing learning potential</p><p><strong>Challenges in ABA Culture Shift </strong> </p><p>- Many practitioners conditioned to value data/procedures over empathy </p><p>- Discomfort with vulnerability required for validation/empathy - Easier to fall back on traditional extinction despite limited evidence base </p><p>- Need for patience and understanding during transition period</p><p><strong>Mental Rehearsal Training </strong> </p><p>- <a href="https://dobettercollective.com/course/kind-extinction-the-inner-work-of-doing-better/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">Jared plans to incorporate guided meditations and mental rehearsal in upcoming webinar </a></p><p>- Evidence shows mental practice improves skill acquisition (e.g. musicians, nurses) </p><p>- Can help practitioners become more fluent in kind extinction techniques</p>