Echolalia

Automatically repeating phrases, sounds, or speech patterns. Often discussed as a childhood trait, but continues into adulthood for many autistic people.

What It Looks Like

Immediate: Echoing what someone just said. Repeating interesting sounds or tones.

Delayed: Quoting movie lines or songs. Using memorized scripts in social situations.

"When someone uses a particular inflection, a corresponding lyric just... appears." — Autistic adult

Why It Happens

• Processing: Repeating helps solidify understanding
• Connection: Sharing favorite phrases as bonding
• Stimming: Vocal self-stimulation
• Scripting: Using familiar phrases to navigate social situations
• Joy: Some sounds just feel good to produce

"I learned small talk by memorizing lines from sitcoms." — Autistic adult

Not Just a Childhood Thing

Many autistic adults don't realize their echolalia is echolalia. It just feels like how their brain works. Recognizing it can be clarifying.

Can be suppressed with effort, but feels automatic. Often increased when relaxed. Frequently enjoyed rather than problematic.

When It's Just Fun

Not all echolalia is functional—sometimes it's just satisfying. Quoting along with favorite shows. Repeating sounds that feel good.

There's nothing wrong with enjoying echolalia. It can be suppressed if needed socially, but when you're comfortable, let it be.

In Relationships

"My partner thought I was mocking them. I had to explain: no, I'm processing and enjoying your words." — Autistic adult

Explain what's happening. Distinguish from mocking. Share that it's a sign of engagement.

Next chapter: Related Conditions — conditions that commonly co-occur with autism.