Final answer:
A tact is a term used in operant conditioning to describe a verbal behavior that is reinforced by a non-verbal antecedent. Operant conditioning relates behavior to its consequences, and it is strengthened by reinforcement
Step-by-step explanation:
The operant for labeling an object is indeed called a "tact". In the context of operant conditioning, a tact is an instance of language (verbal behavior) that is evoked by a non-verbal antecedent and followed by generalized conditioned reinforcement. For example, when a child sees a dog and says "dog", they are emitting a tact. This behavior is likely to be reinforced with social praise or acknowledgement, which encourages the child to repeat the behavior in the future.
Operant conditioning involves learning the association between a behavior and its consequence. It is a term coined by renowned psychologist B.F. Skinner, a major proponent of behaviorism. In a Skinner box, if a rat presses a lever, it gets food as a consequence. Over time, the rat learns to press the lever to receive food.
When using operant conditioning techniques, behaviors are modified through reinforcement or punishment. Positive reinforcement, such as food rewards for dolphins after performing tricks, strengthens behavior. Understanding the nuances of operant conditioning is essential for effectively shaping and modifying behavior.