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Skinner and Relational Frame Theory: Integrating Units of Analysis on a Continuum of Complexity

Abstract

Skinner and relational frame theory (RFT) present different behavioral perspectives on language. Although some bridges can be found between Skinner’s account to verbal behavior and RFT at the conceptual level, the units of analysis presented by each tradition are not fully integrated. The unit of analysis suggested by RFT allows the components that constitute the practices of a verbal community (arbitrary, conventional relations) to be investigated within an operant point of view. Moreover, understanding relational responses as generalized operants, defined functionally by RFT, highlights the reinforcement contingencies involved in the multiple-exemplar training that gives rise to the generativity that hallmarks language as a phenomenon. The present article aims to explore an integration between the Skinnerian text and RFT. Such integration is grounded in the concept of mediated reinforcement contingencies that shape the practices of the verbal community. A conceptual treatment is offered whereby these practices can be better understood on a continuum of complexity that shapes specific instances of verbal responses (echoic, tact, mand etc.) up to purely functional generalized operants. Possible advantages of such an integrative view, as well as some of its limitations and practical challenges are discussed.

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Posted in: Journal Article Abstracts on 10/28/2023 | Link to this post on IFP |
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