Didn't Catch That? Try Speaking Again: The Surprising Science Behind Repeating Yourself

Repeating yourself is a common phenomenon that can be frustrating for both the speaker and the listener. Whether it's a child struggling to articulate their thoughts or a professional trying to convey complex information, repeating oneself can be a necessary evil. But have you ever wondered why we do it? And more importantly, is it actually effective? In this article, we'll delve into the science behind repeating yourself and explore the surprising reasons why it's a crucial communication tool.

Repeating yourself is a natural part of the communication process, and it's not just limited to individuals with speech or language disorders. Even the most articulate and confident speakers repeat themselves from time to time. According to Dr. Susan M. Ervin-Tripp, a renowned linguist, "Repetition is a fundamental aspect of language use, and it's not just a matter of getting the words right, but also of getting the meaning across." (1) In fact, research suggests that repetition is a key component of effective communication, and it's not just about rephrasing what you've already said, but also about clarifying and reinforcing the message.

The Science of Repetition

So, why do we repeat ourselves? From a cognitive perspective, repetition serves several purposes. Firstly, it helps to clarify and reinforce the message, ensuring that the listener understands the intended meaning. Secondly, it provides an opportunity for the speaker to rephrase and reorganize their thoughts, making it easier to convey complex information. Finally, repetition can also serve as a memory aid, helping the speaker to recall and articulate their thoughts more effectively.

Types of Repetition

There are several types of repetition, each serving a different purpose.

1. Verbal repetition: This involves repeating the same words or phrases to emphasize a point or to clarify the message. For example, "I said, I'm going to the store, I'm going to the store, to buy some milk."
2. Nonverbal repetition: This involves repeating a gesture or action to reinforce a message. For instance, a teacher might repeat a demonstration to ensure students understand the concept.
3. Self-repetition: This involves repeating oneself to clarify or rephrase a thought. For example, "I mean, I'm saying that... I'm saying that we need to... uh... increase the budget."
4. External repetition: This involves repeating oneself to an external source, such as a recording device or a listener. For instance, a public speaker might repeat their speech to ensure they're being heard clearly.

The Benefits of Repetition

Repetition has numerous benefits, both for the speaker and the listener. For the speaker, repetition can help to:

• Clarify and reinforce the message
• Reorganize and rephrase thoughts
• Recall and articulate thoughts more effectively
• Build confidence and credibility
• Engage the listener and maintain their attention

• Understand complex information more easily
• Recall and retain information better
• Identify and correct misunderstandings
• Develop critical thinking skills

When to Repeat Yourself

So, when should you repeat yourself? The answer is, whenever necessary. Whether you're communicating with a child, a colleague, or a client, repetition can be a powerful tool to ensure effective communication. Here are some scenarios where repetition is particularly useful:

• When explaining complex information
• When communicating with individuals with language or speech disorders
• When trying to convey a nuanced or abstract concept
• When speaking to a diverse or international audience

Conclusion

Repeating yourself is a natural and essential part of the communication process. By understanding the science behind repetition and its various types, we can harness its power to improve our communication skills and build stronger relationships. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or professional, repetition is a valuable tool to have in your communication arsenal. So, the next time you find yourself repeating yourself, remember that it's not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength – a strength that can help you convey your message more effectively and build stronger connections with others.

References:

(1) Ervin-Tripp, S. M. (1973). Language acquisition and communicative competence. In T. E. Moore (Ed.), The acquisition of language (pp. 97-136). New York: Academic Press.