Overview

• Boomerasking involves asking a personal question only to pivot the focus back to oneself, often leaving others feeling dismissed.
• The study identifies three subtypes: ask-bragging, ask-complaining, and ask-sharing, each reflecting different self-focused motives.
• Researchers found that boomerasking is perceived as insincere and egocentric, even though those engaging in it believe they are being likable.
• Psychological insights reveal that the behavior stems from the tension between appearing responsive and the human urge for self-disclosure, which activates brain regions associated with pleasure.
• To foster more sincere interactions, the study recommends asking questions one cannot answer, practicing responsive listening, and opting for straightforward self-disclosure.