Which of the following statements correctly defines a ‘listener’ in the context of verbal behavior?

In the context of verbal behavior, a 'listener' is defined as a person present for verbal operants to function effectively. This definition emphasizes the role of the listener in facilitating communication and understanding. The listener is not merely an observer; instead, they actively engage with the verbal behavior produced by a speaker.

For verbal operants, effective communication relies on the listener's ability to provide relevant feedback and reinforcement. This interaction is crucial because it gives context and significance to the speaker's words, making it a reciprocal process. The presence of a listener allows for the social validity of verbal behavior, as it ensures that the communication fulfills its intended purpose and leads to understanding or action in the context of the speaker's message.

In this light, a listener cannot be simply categorized as someone who does not respond or someone who is detached from the communicative process, as indicated by the other options. Instead, a listener's engagement is foundational to the success of verbal exchanges.