Pause, Redirect, Reward

Extinction + Supportive Redirection With Differential Reinforcement

Pause, Redirect, Reward is an ABA strategy that combines calm extinction, guided coping, and immediate reinforcement to de-escalate challenging behavior and teach safer alternatives. By pausing the situation, helping learners use a pre-taught regulation skill, then reinforcing the “try-again” response, educators and caregivers keep learning on track while strengthening communication and self-advocacy.

Why use Pause, Redirect, Reward?

• Rapid reduction of unsafe behaviors. Research shows extinction paired with redirection and differential reinforcement can cut aggression, elopement, and self-injury by 60–80 %.
• Stronger self-regulation and coping. Guided practice of a calm-down strategy in the moment reinforces real-world use, leading to faster recovery and fewer repeated incidents.
• Consistent, trauma-informed support. A predictable three-step routine prevents accidental escalation and preserves trust, aligning with neurodiversity-affirming care.