Language is classified into types, called “operants” by Skinner. Each operant has a different function. Verbal Behavior therapy focuses primarily on four verbal operants :

Mand: A request, such as saying “Cookie,” to ask for a cookie.

Tact: A comment used to share an experience or draw attention, such as “airplane” to point out an airplane.

Intraverbal: A word used to respond or answer a question, such as “Where do you go to school?” “Castle Park Elementary”.

Echoic: A repeated, or echoed, word, such as “Cookie?” “Cookie!” This is important as imitating will help the student learn.