Identifying Verbal Operants

 

In 1957, B. F. Skinner wrote the book Verbal Behavior in which he analyzed language based on the same environmental principles of behavior that he previously used to analyze nonverbal behavior. That analysis resulted in a classification system that allows for identification of different types of language. Based on this system, the elementary verbal operants originated, which include mands, tacts, echoic, and intraverbal (Sundberg, 1998). This assignment allows you to further solidify your understanding on this classification system.

To complete this assignment, write an APA-formatted paper in which you:

- Review the examples in the grid below and identify which verbal operant (mands, tacts, echoic, and intraverbal) is being presented.

- Define each of the four verbal operants and justify the answers you provided. Why did you choose the verbal operant that you did?

- Provide your own example of each verbal operant in narrative form.

- Explain why it is beneficial for learners to increase their mand, tact, echoic and intraverbal repertoire.  

APA formatting

Resources: 1–2 scholarly or professional resources.

Length: 2–3 double-spaced pages of content, in addition to the title page and references page.

Font and font size: Times New Roman, 12-point.

Use template included