Date of Award
4-2006
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Dr. James E. Carr
Second Advisor
Dr. John Esch
Third Advisor
Dr. Linda LeBlanc
Fourth Advisor
Dr. Jack Michael
Abstract
Verbal Behavior programs for children diagnosed with autism typically teach novel language in the context of multiple verbal operant arrangements. Commonly called "mixed verbal behavior", this involves the interspersal of various exemplars across verbal operant categories. Despite the current recommended use of this teaching procedure, only 2 studies to date have empirically evaluated its effectiveness (i.e., Arntzen & Almas, 2001; Carroll & Hesse, 1987). In both of these studies, mixed mand-tact training resulted in faster mean acquisition of tacts than tact-only training. In Experiment 1 of the current investigation, a systematic replication of previous studies was conducted with 3 typically-developing children. Although tacts were acquired in fewer mean sessions during the multiple verbaloperant condition than in the single-verbal operant condition across all participants, mean differences were negligible andthe effect was inconsistent across stimulus sets. In Experiment 2, a direct replication of Carroll and Hesse was conducted with 2 typically developing children. Mand-tact training did not produce more rapid acquisition of tacts for participants. The results are discussed in the context of idiosyncratic differences between current and previous procedures, and the value of further research on this potentially valid but elusive phenomenon.
Access Setting
Dissertation-Open Access
Recommended Citation
Sidener, Tina M., "Effects of Single Versus Multiple Verbal Operant Arrangements on the Acquisition of Mands and Tacts in Preschool Children" (2006). Dissertations. 987.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/dissertations/987