Lexicon-Based Sentiment Analysis in Behavioral Research

Area of Science:

• Behavioral science
• Psychology
• Linguistics

Background:

• A comprehensive science of human behavior necessitates understanding verbal behavior.
• Current behavioral theories offer insights but lack extensive research due to resource-intensive coding systems.
• High costs associated with manual coding discourage research on verbal behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce lexicon-based sentiment analysis as an efficient tool for studying human verbal behavior.
• To demonstrate the utility of sentiment analysis for behavior analysts.
• To outline methods for analyzing complex speech patterns within a behavior analytic framework.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing lexicon-based sentiment analysis for the study of verbal products.
• Applying sentiment analysis to naturally occurring verbal data (e.g., social media, transcripts).
• Developing approaches for handling linguistic complexities like negation, sarcasm, and speculation.

Main Results:

• Sentiment analysis offers a more modern and efficient alternative to manual coding systems.
• This approach reduces resource intensity, encouraging more research on verbal behavior.
• The study provides a framework and practical examples for applying sentiment analysis in behavior analysis.

Conclusions:

• Lexicon-based sentiment analysis is a valuable and efficient behavior analytic tool.
• This method facilitates the study of complex verbal behavior and naturally occurring language.
• The proposed approach can invigorate research in the science of human behavior.