3.9 Yes, Even More Verbal Behavior Examples
Whether the form of the response is controlled by a state of deprivation (as is “water”) or by a prior stimulus also makes no difference. If we say “water” because there is a glass of water on the table, that is also verbal behavior…even if it is given to us and we say, “No, thank you.”
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