NEW TREND: SPEAKING WITH A BRITISH ACCENT BECAUSE YOU’RE NERVOUS

Do you know anyone who does this?  A lot of young people do, apparently, sometimes on purpose, but also as a sort of nervous tick.

The U.K.’s “Guardian” newspaper just did a story on how Americans have started speaking in a British accent when they feel awkward in social situations.

They talked to a bunch of Gen Zers who admitted it’s become a habit.  Most said it’s something they unconsciously do when they feel uncomfortable.

British reality shows like “Love Island” might have something to do with it.  They’ve become popular with young people in the last few years.  But it’s not just about mimicking people we’ve seen on TV.

Experts think there’s a psychological reason behind it.  It can be a way of softening what you’re saying, or separating your true personality from a situation.  So in other words, a defence mechanism.