What type of verbal operant is reinforced by a specific reinforcer when commanded?

The correct answer is a mand. This type of verbal operant is characterized by a speaker making a request or command in order to obtain a specific reinforcer. A mand is unique because it is directly controlled by the motivation of the speaker and the specific context, which prompts the verbal behavior. For instance, if a person is thirsty and asks for a drink, the request (or mand) is directly motivated by their need for water, and the specific reinforcer would be receiving that drink.

In contrast, a tact involves labeling or describing an item or event and is reinforced by social acknowledgment rather than a specific item. The intraverbal operant, on the other hand, involves responding to another's verbal behavior without direct reinforcement related to a physical object. Echoics are verbal responses that repeat what someone else has said and are not based on the speaker's motivation to gain something.