What’s up with some people who, during a group presentation or class, act like they’re the only ones being addressed and feel the need to respond? I was recently at a conference where a lady in the front row vigorously nodded her head, agreeing with what was being said, and on multiple occasions said, “Uh huh!” or “Right!” She even turned to the person next to her and told him why she agreed as the other person tried in vain to ignore her.

In a college class I sat next to a guy who behaved similarly. He would say, “Yes” or “That’s right” throughout the class and it became very distracting.

I’d like to know what’s going through the minds of these people. Do they think they’re in an evangelical meeting where it’s expected to hear a few hallelujahs and amens during the discourse? Do they think it boosts the confidence of the presenter? (It seemed to throw off the presenters from what I saw). If anyone reading actually does this, I would be very curious to hear your reasoning.