The role of naming in equivalence formation

The role of verbal behavior in establishing equivalence classes is extensively discussed. Is naming of stimuli necessary or only an facilitator for establishing equivalence classes? In accordance to Sidman (2000), equvivalence is a fundamental stimulus function like generalization and reinforcement. Stimulus equivalence is seen as a direct result of the reinforcement procedure. The naming theory (Horne & Lowe, 1996) claims that establishing of equivalence classes depends on a naming relation and that individuals with a undeveloped verbal repertoire is incapable to form equivalence classes. In this summary the basis of stimulus equivalence and the role of naming in accordance with Sidman equivalence (2000) and naming (Horne & Lowe, 1996) will be presented and discussed.