Which of the following describes a behavior that is considered a mand?

• A. A command to perform
• B. A label for an object
• C. A request for something
• D. A question to gain information

Answer: (C)

A mand refers to a type of verbal operant where an individual makes a request for something they want or need, typically driven by a desire or motivation. In this case, choosing the option that describes a request for something accurately captures the essence of what a mand is.

For example, when a child asks for a cookie because they are hungry, that request is a mand. The behavior is directly linked to the individual’s motivation to obtain that cookie, highlighting the function of communication in this context.

Other options describe different verbal operants entirely. A command to perform is more akin to an instruction or directive (which would relate to a type of verbal operant called a tact or instruction, depending on context). A label for an object refers to labeling, which is also a different verbal operant, where an individual identifies or names an item without a request or desire for it. A question to gain information indicates an interrogative function, which is aligned more with an intraverbal, as it seeks to elicit a response rather than fulfill a personal need or want. Thus, the focus on expressing a desire makes the request for something the key feature of a mand.