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Related Experiment Videos

Arbitrarily applicable comparative relations: experimental evidence for a relational operant.

Nicholas M Berens1, Steven C Hayes

  • 1Psychology Department, University of Nevada, Reno 89557, USA.

Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|May 3, 2007
PubMed
Summary

Relational frame theory suggests derived relational responding is operant behavior. This study shows reinforced training develops arbitrary comparative skills in young children, supporting this operant view.

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Area of Science:

  • Behavioral Psychology
  • Cognitive Development
  • Relational Frame Theory

Background:

  • Derived relational responding, a core concept in Relational Frame Theory (RFT), is proposed to be a form of operant behavior.
  • Previous research has explored the nature of derived relational responding, but its operant status requires further empirical validation.
  • Understanding the operant nature of derived relations is crucial for analyzing complex human behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate whether arbitrarily applicable derived relational responding functions as operant behavior.
  • To examine the efficacy of reinforced multiple-exemplar training in developing arbitrary comparative relations in young children.
  • To identify potential prerequisite skills for the development of arbitrary comparative relations.

Main Methods:

Related Experiment Videos

  • Employed a combined multiple baseline (across responses and participants) and multiple probe design.
  • Utilized reinforced multiple-exemplar training with 4 female participants (ages 4-5) lacking arbitrary comparative skills.
  • Assessed generalization of skills across trained and untrained stimuli and trial types.

Main Results:

  • Reinforced multiple-exemplar training successfully facilitated the development of arbitrary comparative relations.
  • Learned skills demonstrated generalization across untrained stimuli and different trial types.
  • The training sequence highlighted nonarbitrary comparative relations as potential prerequisites.

Conclusions:

  • The findings support the hypothesis that relating arbitrary events comparatively is an operant behavior.
  • This study provides empirical evidence for the operant nature of derived relational responding.
  • The results have implications for understanding and analyzing complex cognitive behaviors.