3.5 Verbal Behavior Non-Example #2
Getting a glass of water yourself is not verbal behavior because the second feature is lacking. The reinforcement is direct, not mediated.
Verbal Behavior
Behavior that has the following features:
It is established and maintained by reinforcement
The reinforcement is mediated by another person
The other person’s action that results in reinforcement must have been specifically trained in order to reinforce speakers
The topography of the behavior: which muscles are used in making the response
Dynamic characteristics of the response: speed, intensity, repetition
Verbal or non-verbal stimulus
Stimulus mode: auditory, visual, etc.
Reinforcement features
Getting a glass of water yourself is not verbal behavior and socially mediated because the reinforcement is direct.