Interruptions can disrupt conversational flow from "summary" of Conversational Style by Deborah Tannen
When one person interrupts another, it can disrupt the conversational flow. This is because interruptions can cause confusion about who is speaking and who has the floor. In a conversation, people take turns speaking, and interruptions can throw off this natural rhythm. When someone is interrupted, they may feel frustrated or disregarded, which can affect the overall tone of the conversation. Interruptions can also lead to misunderstandings, as the speaker may not be able to fully articulate their thoughts before being cut off. In some cases, interruptions can be seen as a power play, as the person interrupting may be asserting their dominance in the conversation. This can create tension and hinder effective communication. Additionally, interruptions can prevent the speaker from fully expressing themselves and can limit the depth of the conversation. When someone is constantly interrupted, they may become hesitant to speak up or share their thoughts, leading to a one-sided conversation. Furthermore, interruptions can derail the topic at hand and shift the focus of the conversation. This can make it difficult to stay on track and can lead to confusion for all parties involved. Conversational flow relies on a certain level of continuity and coherence, and interruptions can disrupt this balance. It is important for all participants in a conversation to be mindful of their speaking habits and to allow others the opportunity to express themselves without interruption.- Interruptions can have a negative impact on conversational flow. They can disrupt the natural rhythm of turn-taking, lead to misunderstandings, create tension, limit the depth of the conversation, and derail the topic at hand. It is essential for individuals to be aware of the impact of interruptions on communication and to strive for a more respectful and balanced conversational style.
