Why do some people keep repeating themselves when speaking?
I am a 45-year-old middle-aged man. Recently, my family members and colleagues have pointed out that I unconsciously repeat certain words or phrases when speaking. I find this perplexing and am concerned it may indicate an underlying medical condition. Could you please explain why some people constantly repeat words while speaking?
Repetition in speech can have various medical explanations, including but not limited to stuttering, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism spectrum disorder. This phenomenon may represent a stage in language development or could be an early sign of a neurological or psychological condition. Stuttering is a common cause, characterized by interruptions in speech fluency, often accompanied by the repetition of sounds, syllables, or entire words. Anxiety or other emotional issues may also lead to repetitive speech behaviors.
It is recommended to try recording instances of your speech repetition and observe whether it worsens in specific situations. If the repetition is related to emotional states, techniques such as relaxation training, meditation, or counseling may help alleviate the tension. If you suspect a neurological condition, seek timely medical consultation for professional evaluation and diagnosis.