Fiance’s incessant talking causes problems
Dear Amy: My fiance, “Albert,” talks nonstop. He will talk about any subject, regardless of the situation.
He doesn’t care if anyone is interested in what he is saying. He will tell endless stories. He gets started and doesn’t stop until people walk away.
He can’t seem to read social cues that indicate people want him to stop talking.
He has been reprimanded more than once by his employers about talking to workers on and wasting their time.
If I invite friends over, he will interrupt and try to steer the conversation.
I’ve stopped inviting my friends over because his behavior is annoying and embarrassing.
He complains that he has no real friends to do things with.
I can’t watch TV or listen to the radio because he is talking over the sound.
Albert is a nice guy, but I have started to dread going to gatherings with him.
Am I being ridiculous and petty, or could he have a problem that a doctor or therapist could help with? — Worried
Dear Worried: If “Albert’s” behavior is as extreme as you describe, you should take a very serious look at your own capacities and willingness to cope with such a noisy and unfulfilling partnership.
Being with him is already causing you to self-isolate. His behavior has an impact on his professional prospects, as well as your relationships.
Yes, his nonstop talking could be result of a treatable issue: extreme anxiety, bipolar disorder, Aspergers, or ADHD.
Talking nonstop can also be a way for a person to hold their deeper feelings at bay.
Your fiance should be evaluated by a mental health professional.