21.5 Definition of Verbal Behavior

The analysis for the other forms is similar. The key point to remember is that Skinner’s analysis of verbal behavior is not based upon the type of behavior involved, but rather upon the type of reinforcement for that behavior—mediated reinforcement. ASL has often been regarded by individuals with a traditional approach to language as less than a complete system of verbal behavior. To a great extent, this is because language has been defined by analyzing the characteristics of vocal language systems such as English. Skinner’s analysis does not depend upon the type of response, but rather on an analysis of the relationship between certain types of controlling variables and responses in any form. When analyzed in this way, both English and ASL are complete systems of verbal behavior.