What is conversational hijacking?

Conversational hijacking occurs when one person diverts the topic of conversation to an unrelated subject or changes the direction of the dialogue in a way that disrupts the flow. This can result in the original discussion losing its significance or focus, often leading to frustration among participants who were engaged in the initial topic. By steering the conversation towards something else—whether intentionally or unintentionally—this person essentially "hijacks" the interaction, preventing the original ideas from being explored. Recognizing this behavior can help individuals navigate conversations more effectively, ensuring that all parties have the opportunity to express their thoughts on the original topic.