Behavior which is emitted often changes the conditions responsible for its strength . . . Unemitted behavior cannot, of course, do this. Since conditions which make verbal behavior strong are frequently aversive, a person possessing strong verbal behavior may “do something about it.” For example, if strong behavior is unemitted because there is no audience, the speaker may act to get an audience, perhaps by simply manding one. (p. 400)
Verbal Behavior: Extended Edition. Chapter 16: Special Conditions of Self-Editing. Quote 10
- Post author:B. F. Skinner Foundation
- Post published:January 5, 2026
- Post category:Skinner's Quote of the Day
