According to Skinner, how do children typically learn language?

Skinner's theory of language acquisition is rooted in the principles of behaviorism, which emphasizes the role of reinforcement and environmental factors in learning. He proposed that children learn language through a process of operant conditioning, where they are rewarded for making verbal sounds or using words correctly. This reinforcement encourages them to repeat the behavior, gradually expanding their vocabulary and improving their language skills.

In this view, children are not just passive recipients of language; instead, they actively engage in using language and receive feedback from their environment, such as parents or caregivers. When a child successfully communicates a need or wants through language and receives positive reinforcement (like praise or getting what they wanted), it strengthens their understanding and encourages further attempts at language use. This interactive process is foundational in Skinner's theory, illustrating that the learning of language is fundamentally linked to reinforcement rather than memorization, observation, or punishment.

The emphasis on reinforcement distinguishes this perspective from other theories that may prioritize different mechanisms for language development.