I do this when I what 'proof' that my belief is the correct one.
And if like me, you've worked in retail and someone asks, "What's the best_______?" fill in the blank; then you show them what is available and they ask you for one you didn't even mention, you know what I'm talking about. As if to find out from you what you thought about their choice.
They are searching for confirmation based on their perspective. I've done this many times as well.
I realize this may not be a bad thing . But it depends on who is asked and how.
Not everyone is qualified to answer, to confirm or deny the real question being asked; which is usually, 'Am I right to believe this?'
Also, if the question asked is one of desperation instead of open curiosity, the triggered response may be one of appeasement. Just to get the person out of their hair, so to speak.
It was Oprah who has said that the principle she lives her life by is; Intention. So if we agree with her in considering our search for confirmation we should consider our intention with our question. Why are we seeking confirmation in the first place?
It is to prove ourselves right and another wrong?
Is it to affirm action to be taken?
Is it to stay informed?
What is our true motivation behind the search?
Can you remember the last time you wanted confirmation?
What did you do? And what was the deep why for wanting confirmation in the first place?