What's a Mand?

Have you ever wished the report from your child’s Behavior Analyst also came with a list of definitions? The jargon can be confusing, and even when terms are explained, it can be tough to remember every little definition and example. Plus, think of how much more efficient meetings would be if everyone used the same “language!”

With the challenge of communication in mind, we’ve decided to roll out an ABA or Verbal Behavior definition each week!

This week’s term:

Mand

The term “mand” was derived from “command” and “demand.”

Skinner’s definition:  A verbal operant in which the response is reinforced by a characteristic consequence and is therefore under the functional control of relevant conditions of deprivation or aversive stimulation.

Greer/Ross definition:  Conditions of deprivation or annoying conditions. Result in speaking in the presence of a listener who then mediates the situation. They can consist of many different response topographies (signs, gestures, speaking devices, pictures), which specify the reinforcer delivered by a listener.

A great example:  A hungry child says, “I want the cookie, please” and her mom gives her the cookie.

I tend to prefer the Greer/Ross definition, especially when explaining Mands to parents.

How do you explain behavior analytic terms to families and educators?