Self-talk is actually a very healthy way to regulate emotions and remain focused. Some preschools, such as my DS's, encourage it.

The first article mentions that self-talk in the third-person may provide the emotional distance a person needs to effectively manage such tough emotions.

He's doing a lovely job of helping himself!

http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/201...ng-is-believing-the-science-of-self-talk

http://www.cfchildren.org/Portals/0/SS_K5/G1_DOC/G1_Home_Link_Sample_SS.pdf