Related Experiment Videos
A functional-analytic model of analogy: a relational frame analysis
Ian Stewart1, Dermot Barnes-Holmes, Bryan Roche
1Department of Psychology, National University of Ireland, Maynooth. ian.stewart@nuigalway.ie
Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior
|January 1, 2003
Summary
This study explored a behavior-analytic model of analogical reasoning, demonstrating how equivalence-equivalence responding can discriminate formal similarities. Participants learned to match relations based on physical similarities like color or shape, supporting this model of analogy.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Cognitive Science
- Learning Theory
Background:
- Analogical reasoning is crucial for complex cognition.
- Previous models often overlook the role of learned stimulus relations.
- A behavior-analytic approach offers a novel perspective on analogy formation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a behavior-analytic model of analogical reasoning.
- To define analogical reasoning as discriminating formal similarity through equivalence-equivalence responding.
- To test this model in human participants.
Main Methods:
- Experiment 1: Trained participants on four three-member equivalence relations (A-B-C).
- Tested for equivalence-equivalence responding, linking relations based on shared physical properties (color or shape).
- Experiment 2: Assessed functional transformation in a block-sorting task using the established model.
Main Results:
- Participants successfully formed equivalence relations and demonstrated equivalence-equivalence responding.
- Color-trained subjects discriminated based on color, shape-trained subjects on shape.
- Control groups showed no consistent discrimination, highlighting the specificity of training.
Conclusions:
- Equivalence-equivalence responding provides a mechanism for discriminating formal similarities, supporting a behavior-analytic model of analogy.
- This model successfully demonstrates functional transformations, akin to analogical reasoning.
- The findings have implications for understanding complex cognitive processes through behavioral principles.