LAUSR

Abstract The current paper briefly outlines how researchers from multiple sub-fields of cognitive science have independently converged upon a relational account of language and cognition. However, most of this research from the cognitive sciences has focused on the description and prediction of cognitive/linguistic outcomes, rather than on influencing them per se. In particular, there is general consensus from cognitive science that cognitive training programs are ineffective. On the other hand, behavioral selection by consequences (i.e., operant psychology) is one of the most robust findings in psychological science, and is a principle commonly employed to influence behavior across a range of settings. We provide an introduction to Relational Frame Theory (RFT) as a form of advanced operant psychology, and describe how relatively complex patterns of behavior can be shaped up by applying targeted schedules of reinforcement to more primitive relational responses, drawing on examples from contemporary cognitive training literature and experimental behavior analysis.