From Psychologies · Ava Skoupsky · · 1m
Why Some People Always Monopolize Conversations
A conversation pattern where someone talks over others without listening, explained by a psychological mechanism.
In brief
A conversation pattern where someone talks over others without listening, explained by a psychological mechanism. People who monopolize conversations often use a self-focused communication style called boomerasking, which can strain relationships by ignoring active listening. Originally reported by Psychologies.
Why Some People Monopolize Conversations
A person who monopolizes conversations often talks over others without listening, making the other person feel unheard.
“Ce n'est pas forcément un signe d'égocentrisme, même si cela peut en donner l'impression.”
Boomerasking Explained
Boomerasking is a communication style where someone asks a question then answers it as if they are talking to themselves.
“Cela se traduit par le fait de poser une question à son interlocuteur, puis de retourner la situation et y répondre comme si on se la posait à soi-même.”
Signs of Boomerasking

People who use boomerasking talk quickly, steer conversations toward themselves, and show absent eyes when others speak.
“Elle ne vous écoutera pas et ne s'intéressera même pas à ce que vous dites.”
Harvard Study Finds
According to a Harvard study, people who ask questions are more appreciated than those who don't.
“les personnes qui posent des questions aux autres sont plus appréciées.”
Why This Happens
This behavior stems from insecurity and social skills gaps, not necessarily egocentrism, according to Dr. Sue Varma.
“Ce n'est pas forcément un signe d'égocentrisme, même si cela peut en donner l'impression.”
Consequence of Monopolizing
Conversations that go only one way fail because active listening is key to healthy relationships.
“Cela consiste à écouter pleinement l'autre avant de vouloir prendre la parole ou même donner des conseils.”
The essence
People who monopolize conversations often use a self-focused communication style called boomerasking, which can strain relationships by ignoring active listening.





