Differences in self-talk frequency as a function of age, only-child, and imaginary childhood companion status

In three studies, we examined differences in the frequency with which people report talking to themselves. Using a standardized measure of self-talk frequency, the Self-Talk Scale ( Brinthaupt, Hein, & Kramer, 2009), we collected information about college student participants’ age, sex, and family configuration (i.e., only or sibling child), and whether they had an imaginary companion in childhood. In Study 1, significant differences in self-talk were found between different age groupings. In Study 2, children without siblings reported more self-talk than children with siblings. Finally, in Study 3, respondents who reported having an imaginary companion in childhood also reported significantly more self-talk than those who did not have an imaginary childhood companion. We discuss the self-regulatory and developmental implications of these results.

► We examine differences in the frequency of people’s self-talk.
► Study 1 showed self-talk differences between different age groupings.
► In Study 2, only children reported more self-talk than sibling children.
► In Study 3, respondents with an imaginary childhood friend reported more self-talk.
► We discuss the self-regulatory and developmental implications of these results.