It's a common practice that experts consider beneficial. It promotes self-understanding and emotional processing.
If you talk to yourself out loud, psychologists say you’re probably this type of person
Talking to oneself out loud—known in psychology as “self-talk” or “thinking out loud”—is a common and beneficial behavior, not a sign of irrationality. Rather than indicating madness or social isolation, self-talk serves as a powerful cognitive tool with a range of psychological benefits. Gary Lupyan, associate professor of psychology at the University of Wisconsin, explains that this practice can improve memory and concentration, challenging the stereotype that talking to oneself is a symptom of instability.
In one experiment, participants who named objects out loud were able to locate them more quickly than those who remained silent. As Lupyan explains, “Even though we all know what a banana looks like, saying the word out loud helps the brain activate additional information about that item, including what it looks like.” Verbalizing names or thoughts engages both visual and contextual processing in the brain, enhancing identification and recall.
Self-talk isn’t limited to adults. Children frequently use it to guide themselves through everyday tasks like tying their shoes or getting dressed. This kind of internal dialogue represents an early form of self-regulation and learning, helping children organize actions and strengthen cognitive skills. In this way, self-talk acts as a bridge between thought and behavior.
According to psychotherapist Anne Wilson, self-talk also plays a social role. “We all need to talk to someone interesting, intelligent, who knows us well and is on our side,” she says. “That person is ourselves.” This internal conversation fosters self-awareness and emotional processing, offering a sense of companionship and support that contributes to mental well-being.
Beyond aiding memory and emotional regulation, speaking aloud can help structure ideas, support decision-making, and improve problem-solving. Research published in the Harvard Business Review suggests that talking in the third person can promote calmness and confidence by creating psychological distance and offering a more objective perspective on challenges.
Related stories
Self-talk is also a powerful motivational strategy. Repeating phrases like “I can do this” can boost focus and perseverance, preparing individuals to tackle challenges or rehearse social interactions. However, experts caution that if self-talk becomes disruptive or compulsive, it may be a sign to seek professional support.
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment