Have you ever had a conversation with someone who moves from one topic to another with no apparent connection? This tendency to disperse in the discussion has a name: tangential thinking. Decryption.
A lack of coherence in discussions
Tangential thinking occurs when someone strays from the main topic of a conversation by following confusing or disconnected associations of ideas. For example, a person may start by talking about losing their job, move on to talking about back pain, and then end up talking about their cat’s mischief.
The problem ? While the person concerned follows their own internal logic without being embarrassed, their interlocutors may be disconcerted. By moving away from the initial topic too quickly, the conversation becomes difficult to follow, or even incomprehensible.
“Tangential thinking occurs when ideas flow together without any apparent connection or logic. The person speaks, but their thoughts take unexpected turns, so that they never really answer the question asked. We are left with the impression of having missed an episode“, explains Amélie Boukhobza, clinical psychologist.
If this phenomenon is occasional, there is no need to worry. On the other hand, when these digressions become frequent and are accompanied by other symptoms (hallucinations, delusions, mental confusion), it may be necessary to consult a professional.
Tangential thinking: when should you worry?
When it becomes recurrent or worsens, tangential thinking can disrupt the social and professional life of the person concerned.
“This disorder can sometimes make you smile, especially when it remains occasional and when it is simply a matter of harmless ramblings. But in certain cases, particularly in people suffering from psychiatric disorders, it may reflect an alteration in cognitive functioning. This type of thinking is found in some people with schizophrenia or during manic episodes.“, specifies Amélie Boukhobza.
However, should you consult a doctor at the first occurrence? Not necessarily.
“Tangential thinking can affect everyone, especially in times of stress, fatigue or when one is absorbed in multiple thoughts. But if this lack of consistency becomes recurring and too invasive, it is better to talk to a professional“, concludes the psychologist.