Ever had a coworker who feels the need to repeat everything you just said?

[panyanyany]

For example:

Them: Where did you have lunch today? Me: I went to that noodle place downstairs. Them: So, you went to that noodle place downstairs, right?

Them: What’s causing this bug? Me: The AWS data center's network is down. I’ve already submitted a ticket. Them: The AWS data center's network is down, and you’ve submitted a ticket, right?

Them: How was your weekend? Me: I spent the whole day gaming at home. Them: So, you spent the whole day gaming at home, right?

… Basically, no matter what I say, they feel the need to repeat it back to me, with a “right?” tacked on. It’s like they can’t process my answer without echoing it back as a question.

[icepush]

This condition is known as echolalia and is often associated with autism. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Echolalia

[panyanyany]

However, my coworker still seems pretty normal.

[smt88]

This seems pretty benign, and it might be the only way this person is able to communication if they aren't neurotypical. I would say just accept it, appreciate that they're listening to you, and enjoy the other parts of your life.

[navjack27]

It could be a trait of autism spectrum or it could be active listening strategy.

I wouldn't bring it up with them though. They might not even know why they are doing it. But it's not rude and it's not really annoying.

[architectfwd]

Have you considered that perhaps they are trying to extend the conversation and get you to continue speaking?

Maybe they’re shy. I’ve heard of this somewhere, that you try keep the convo going by replaying.

Have you tried responding with a “yeah have you been to the noodle place downstairs?