Mand
Also called: request, demand, manding
Definition
A verbal operant evoked by a motivating operation and reinforced by the specific thing it specifies — asking for water when thirsty and getting water. The mand is the only verbal operant that directly benefits the speaker, which is why it is usually the first one taught and why teaching it reduces problem behavior that was serving the same purpose.
In plain language
Asking for something you want, and getting it. It is driven by wanting, and it is usually the first kind of language taught.
Example
A learner signs "open" while holding a closed container and the adult opens it.
Not mand
A learner says "ball" when they see a ball and the adult says "yes, ball." Naming something present, for praise, is a tact.
Commonly confused with
See also
Written from
- skinner-1957
- sundberg-michael-2001
Written from Skinner (1957) and Sundberg and Michael (2001). No textbook glossary consulted.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.