More Zagreb residents notice strange sight on trams: Why are people talking to themselves? Experts explain

A common sight on Zagreb's trams, people talking to themselves, has prompted curiosity and discussion among commuters. What initially appears unusual is explained by experts as a normal, often beneficial, human behavior.

“

I see more and more people while traveling by public transport talking to themselves, arguing with themselves, and the like. Why?

The conversation began on Reddit when a user noticed an increasing number of passengers conversing, and sometimes arguing, with themselves. Initial humorous suggestions ranged from Bluetooth headsets, which the original poster dismissed, to witty remarks about finding oneself the best conversationalist or the need to be understood. Some even jokingly blamed the summer heat for the behavior.

“

They have Bluetooth headphones in their ears, which you can't see.

However, the phenomenon has a more grounded explanation. According to Tomislav Stanić, cited by Kreni Zdravo, talking to oneself is a frequent habit that is not inherently worrying. This self-directed speech can serve several purposes: enhancing concentration, aiding problem-solving, boosting motivation, and facilitating emotional understanding.

“

Talking to oneself is a very common habit and in itself is not a cause for concern.

Whether conducted silently in one's mind, whispered, or spoken aloud, this internal dialogue often begins in childhood. Stanić notes that verbalizing thoughts can bring clarity, helping individuals distinguish between genuine concerns and anxieties, and better process their emotional responses. Therefore, seeing someone animatedly discussing their tasks or thoughts on public transport might simply mean they are engaging in a helpful cognitive process, rather than exhibiting a sign of distress.

“

Verbalizing one's thoughts can help us see them more clearly, separate real problems from excessive worries, and better understand our own emotional reactions.