Generalized Verbal Control and Correspondence Training

Abstract

This study investigated generalization and maintenance of verbal control over nonverbal behavior in a preschool child. In a multiple baseline design across responses, verbal control initially was found to be well developed, but decreased with repeated tests for generalization and maintenance. A brief correspondence training phase was then implemented. During this phase, reinforcement was made contingent on both promising to engage in and actually engaging in a target response. Subsequently, verbal control was recovered. Generalization of verbal control to several untrained responses and maintenance over time were documented in a multiple baseline across-responses design. This study demonstrated the utility of correspondence training in promoting durable verbal control of a variety of responses and in recovering transitory verbal control.