Autoclitics
Autoclitics are a type of verbal behavior that modify or clarify the meaning of other verbal statements. They help convey the speaker's intent, emotions, or attitudes about what they are saying. For example, saying "I think" before a statement indicates uncertainty, while "I know" expresses confidence.
In the context of behavior analysis, autoclitics are important for understanding how language functions in communication. They can be seen as secondary verbal operants that enhance the richness of language, allowing speakers to express nuances and subtleties in their messages.