What does the term "Mand" refer to in communication?

The term "Mand" in communication specifically refers to a type of verbal behavior that involves requesting an item or action. It originates from B.F. Skinner's work on operant conditioning and is classified as a form of operant language behavior. Mands are essential because they serve the function of communication by enabling individuals to express their needs or desires. When a person makes a request (the mand), it is directly related to their motivation or need for something specific, thus resulting in a change in the environment to meet that need.

For example, if a child says "cookie" when they want a cookie, they are engaging in a mand. This behavior is fundamentally different from other forms of communication such as labeling (which would be an example of a tact), responding to questions (which typically involves understanding and providing information), or simply repeating information (which is an echoic response). Understanding the concept of mands is crucial for developing effective communication strategies, especially in therapeutic settings for individuals with communication disorders.