2.4 Non-Technical Terminology

Non-technical terminology describes observable events without reference to internal states and mental processes as explanations. It is more accurate than mentalistic terminology, but not precise. For example, to say, “I rewarded him for appropriate requesting” describes observable events but is non-technical in that it overlooks a crucial element of reinforcement: analyzing what impact there is on behavior. This is what is meant when someone says, “You cannot reward a person, only behavior.”