The phrase "How are you doing?" or similar greetings like "How are you?" is often used as a common social courtesy or a form of politeness in many cultures. In many cases, people don't necessarily expect or want a detailed answer to this question. Instead, it serves as a way to acknowledge the other person's presence and show a basic level of concern for their well-being.
There are a few reasons why people may use this phrase without necessarily expecting a detailed response:
Social Norms: In some cultures, asking "How are you doing?" is considered a standard greeting, and people are accustomed to using it without intending to engage in a deep conversation about the other person's well-being.
Small Talk: In casual settings or brief encounters, such as passing someone in a hallway or meeting someone briefly, people may use this phrase as a way to engage in small talk without getting into personal matters.
Politeness: As you mentioned, it's considered polite and friendly to show some level of interest in others' well-being, even if it's just a quick question in passing.
Filler Phrase: In some cases, the phrase might be used out of habit or as a filler in conversations, rather than a genuine inquiry into someone's feelings.
While it's true that some people may not be genuinely interested in the response, others might be more receptive and willing to listen if you choose to share how you are truly feeling. In more intimate or close relationships, people tend to be more sincere when asking about each other's well-being.
Overall, the intent behind asking "How are you doing?" can vary from person to person and situation to situation. Understanding the context and the level of familiarity with the person asking can give you a better sense of whether they genuinely want to know how you are or if it's just a social courtesy.