Does anyone talk to themselves on a regular basis when they are on their own?

Question

Why do we do this and what causes it?

Answer 1

guilty as charged, don't know why tho

Answer 2

When I start talking, there are loads of people, after just a few minutes everyone's gone, but I haven't noticed them go, so I keep on talking. I have to conclude that the cause is that I've bored them all rigid. Why do I carry on talking? because I love the sound of my own voice and once everyone's gone, nobody answers me back.

Answer 3

This is the concept of 'verbal thought' proposed by Vygotsky. We all do this, some of us without realising it and it stems from early childhood.

You listen to any young child and you will notice that they give a 'running commentary' on their activities. Later this 'external speech' is internalised and becomes the voice you hear in your head when you are reading, or when you are talking yourself through a complex task.

However, we never fully lose the knack of exploiting this 'external speech,' and it becomes part of our repertoire, so that when we are on our own, or when we are carrying out a difficult task, we find ourselves talking out loud to ourselves.

It's a useful thing to do really, - it can be quite a helpful facility.

Answer 4

I do but it's usually along the lines of "for god's sake what did you just do that for?"
I regularly hurl abuse at inanimate objects though, it freaks people out cos I can be quite a scary wee person when I can't get the lid off a jar or bottle hehehe

Answer 5

Most everyone talks to themselves occasionally. However, if you repeatedly go over past events in your head, it could be a sign of an impending psychological problem. Examine your emotions and, if needed, don't ever be afraid to ask for help!

Answer 6

I talk to myself more when I have a lot on my mind, or do not want to forget to do something. Making a list is just another thing for me to lose, so I just keep talking, hoping it will stick in my memory and I won't forget to do anything!

Answer 7

I was an only child, and I think that has caused me to talk to myself. Whats worse though is that i will catch myself doing it and then tell myself off.

Answer 8

Yes, when Im completing a project or learning something. I think we do this to help us solve a task like someone motivating us.

Answer 9

Yes, but not out loud. I think it's called "thinking" - see, there I go again!!
Crikey, sometimes I even do it in French and other times, I can see the words typing out in front of me in my head!
Just some weird brain process I guess.....reminds us we're still alive!

Answer 10

I admit it, I do. It is like a train of thought. It helps you to remember things and work through problems. Saying things out loud makes them seem more real.

Answer 11

I do it all the time-and then I freaked myself out the other day by replying back to myself!!!
Oh lookie! Here come those nice men with that funny white coat with the extra long sleeves.....