On structure-dependent grammars: a reply to Mabry.

Schoenfeld (1995) wrote a theory paper. The paper answers critics who say Skinner cannot explain grammar.

The critic, Mabry, used Chomsky’s idea of structure-dependence. N shows how environmental contingencies can build grammar without built-in rules.

The paper finds that word order and nesting can be shaped by reinforcement.

No innate language module is needed. Careful teaching history creates what looks like syntax.

Petursdottir et al. (2023) extends the story. They argue that simple operant and Pavlovian learning is enough for children to learn a whole first language.

Zhou et al. (2018) give a live example. Four autistic children learned to build written sentences after an ABA package. Their data show the contingency approach works in real lessons.

James et al. (1981) sound different. One autistic child learned signs but kept odd word order. The gap is expected: the child’s unique history, not the theory, explains the pattern.

You can stop saying "grammar is too complex for ABA." Instead, break sentence forms into teachable units and reinforce correct word order. Start with short frames like "I see ___" and expand as the learner masters each step.