When my son Lucas started showing signs of autism back in 1998, I was a confused and overwhelmed mom trying to figure out the best path forward. I was already a registured nust, but that journey eventually led me to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, author, and course creator. One of the most powerful and effective approaches I’ve ever used and taught is verbal behavior therapy—and it’s the foundation of my work today.
Whether you’re a parent of a toddler showing signs of autism or a professional working with young children, I created a free guide will help you understand what verbal behavior is, how it fits within ABA, and why my Turn Autism Around® Approach is making such a difference for families worldwide.
What Is Verbal Behavior?
Verbal behavior is a term coined by psychologist B.F. Skinner in his groundbreaking 1957 book Verbal Behavior. Rather than focusing on the structure of language (like grammar), Skinner focused on the function of language—how and why we use words to get our needs met, interact with others, and navigate the world.
In short, verbal behavior is a behavioral approach to language grounded in the science of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). It focuses on teaching communication by breaking it down into key components, known as verbal operants:
Mands – Asking for things (e.g., “cookie,” “help”)
Tacts – Labeling items or actions (e.g., “dog,” “running”)
Echoics – Repeating what someone else says
Intraverbals – Answering questions or filling in blanks (e.g., “What’s your name?” or “Twinkle, twinkle, little ___”)
This functional analysis of language helps us teach communication in ways that are meaningful and motivating for each child. Sometimes, kids may be strong in one operant but need a lot of support to gain others.
ABA vs. Verbal Behavior: What’s the Difference?
A common question I get is:
“Which is better: ABA or Verbal Behavior?”
The truth is, that’s like asking, “Which is better: soda or Sprite?” ABA is the umbrella science—the broader field of behavior analysis. Under that umbrella are different models and approaches, and Verbal Behavior is one of them.
I didn’t invent the Verbal Behavior Approach. My work has been influenced by leaders like Dr. Jack Michael, Dr. Mark Sundberg, and Dr. Vincent Carbone, who expanded Skinner’s work and applied it to teaching children with autism starting in the 1970s.
What makes the Verbal Behavior Approach different from traditional models—like the Lovaas ABA model—is how we teach language, engage with the child, and involve parents.
Many professionals who use Verbal Behavior may use the VBMAPP assessment.
Here’s a comparison:
| Traditional ABA (Lovaas) | Verbal Behavior Approach (VB) |
|---|---|
| Focuses on receptive language first | Prioritizes expressive language through manding |
| Often uses “no-no-prompt” error correction | Emphasizes errorless teaching to reduce stress |
| Data-heavy: trial-by-trial | Uses cold probe data to free up more time for teaching |
| Less emphasis on motivation | Strong focus on pairing, motivation, and the mand |
| Protocol-driven and highly structured | Individualized based on Verbal Behavior Assessments |
| Parent involvement varies | Encourages collaboration with parents and professionals |
Both approaches fall under ABA, but in my experience, the Verbal Behavior Approach is often more practical, motivating, and effective, especially when we’re working with very young or minimally verbal children.
When we focus on what motivates a child we can help them want to communicate and connect with their caregivers.
Download the free ABA-VB Therapy Guide
Watch my free video workshop on how to increase language and decrease problem behavior
Explore my online courses for parents and professionals
