Extraversion (E) - Introversion (I): The extraversion-introversion dichotomy was first explored by Jung in his theory of personality types as a way to describe how people respond and interact with the world around them.
While these terms are familiar to most people, the way in which they are used here differs somewhat from their popular usage.
Extraverts are "outward-turning" and tend to be action-oriented, enjoy more frequent social interaction, and feel energized after spending time with other people.
Introverts are "inward-turning" and tend to be thought-oriented, enjoy deep and meaningful social interactions, and feel recharged after spending time alone.
We all exhibit extraversion and introversion to some degree, but most of us tend have an overall preference for one or the other.
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SI
Introvert/Extrovert
2. Extraversion-Introversion
Extraversion (E) - Introversion (I): The extraversion-
introversion dichotomy was first explored by Jung in his
theory of personality types as a way to describe how
people respond and interact with the world around them.
While these terms are familiar to most people, the way in
which they are used here differs somewhat from their
popular usage.
Extraverts are "outward-turning" and tend to be action-
oriented, enjoy more frequent social interaction, and
feel energized after spending time with other people.
Introverts are "inward-turning" and tend to be thought-
oriented, enjoy deep and meaningful social
interactions, and feel recharged after spending time
alone.
We all exhibit extraversion and introversion to some
degree, but most of us tend have an overall preference for
one or the other.
3. What Is Introversion?
Introversion is one of the major personality traits identified in many theories
of personality.
People who are introverted tend to be inward turning, or focused more on
internal thoughts, feelings and moods rather than seeking out external
stimulation.
Introversion is generally viewed as existing as part of a continuum along with
extraversion.
Introversion indicates one end of the scale, while extraversion represents the
other.
The terms introversion and extraversion were popularized through the work
of Carl Jung and later became central parts of other prominent theories
including the big 5 theory of personality.
The introversion-extraversion dimension is also one of the four areas identified
by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI).
According to many theories of personality, everyone has some degree of both
introversion and extraversion. However, people often tend to lean one way or
the other.
Introverts tend to be more quiet, reserved, and introspective.
Unlike extraverts who gain energy from social interaction, introverts have to
expend energy in social situations.
After attending a party or spending time in a large group of people, introverts
often feel a need to "recharge" by spending a period of time alone.
4. Common Introversion Traits
Introversion is marked by a number of different
sub-traits:
Very self-aware
Thoughtful
Enjoys understanding details
Interested in self-knowledge and self-
understanding
Tends to keep emotions private
Quiet and reserved in large groups or around
unfamiliar people
More sociable and gregarious around people they
know well
Learns well through observation
5. Introversion and Behavior
How does introversion impact behavior?
Researchers have found that people high in this trait tend to have a
smaller group of friends.
While extraverts generally have a wide circle of friends and
acquaintances, introverts typically choose their friends much more
carefully.
Their closest relationships tend to be profound and significant.
They also prefer to interact with people on a one-on-one basis rather
than in a large group setting.
It is important to note that introversion does not necessarily equate with shyness.
In their book, The Development of Shyness and Social Withdrawal, authors
Schmidt and Buss write, "Sociability refers to the motive, strong or weak,
of wanting to be with others, whereas shyness refers to behavior when
with others, inhibited or uninhibited, as well as feelings of tension and
discomfort."
Shyness indicates a fear of people or social situations.
Introverts simply do not like to spend lots of time interacting with
other people.
However, they do appreciate being around people to whom they are
6. Introversion and Behavior…..2
Introverts tend to think about things before talking.
They want to have a full understanding of a concept before they voice
an opinion or try to offer an explanation.
While extraverts typically learn through trial and error, introverts learn
best through observation.
Jonathan Rauch’s article in Atlantic Monthly, talks about some of the
common myths and misconceptions about introverts.
While introverts are often labeled as shy, aloof, and arrogant, Rauch
explains that these perceptions result from the failure of extraverts to
understand how introverts function.
"Extroverts have little or no grasp of introversion," Rauch suggests.
"They assume that company, especially their own, is always welcome.
They cannot imagine why someone would need to be alone; indeed,
they often take umbrage at the suggestion . As often as I have tried to
explain the matter to extroverts, I have never sensed that any of them
really understood."
According to estimates, extraverts outnumber introverts by about three to
one.
Introverts often find that other people try to change them or even suggest
that there is something "wrong" with them.
Nothing could be further from the truth.
While introverts make up a smaller portion of the population, there is no
7. Introversion and Behavior…..3
According to estimates, ……..
Instead, both introverts and extraverts should strive to understand each
other's differences and similarities.
Jobs that require a great deal of social interaction usually hold little appeal to
people high in introversion.
On the other hand, careers that involve working independently are
often a great choice for introverts.
For example, an introvert my enjoy working as a writer, accountant,
computer programmer, graphic designer, pharmacist or artist.
5 Signs You Are an Introvert
Introversion is a personality trait characterized by a focus on internal feelings
rather than on external sources of stimulation.
While introverts and extroverts are often viewed in terms of two extreme
opposites, the truth is that most people lie somewhere in the middle of the
extroversion-introversion continuum.
Do you assume that you know who is an introvert and who isn't?
While you might think of an introvert as a shy wallflower who prefers to
stay home alone instead of socialize, introverts can actually come in many
types with a wide variety characteristics.
There are certainly plenty of introverts who are socially reserved and who
would prefer to stay home and read a book rather than go to a big party, but
there are also plenty of introverts who enjoy socializing.
8. 5 Signs You Are an Introvert
The following are just a few of the signs that you/associates might be an
introvert.
1. Being Around Lots of People Drains Your Energy
Do you ever feel exhausted after spending time with a lot of people?
After a day interacting with others, do you often need to retreat to a quiet
place and have an extended amount of time all to yourself?
One of the major characteristics of this personality type is that introverts have
to expend energy in social situations, unlike extroverts who gain energy from
such interactions.
That doesn't meant that all introverts avoid social events altogether.
Many introverts actually enjoy spending time around others, with one key
caveat – introverts tend to prefer the company of close friends.
While an extrovert might go to a party with the goal to meet new people,
an introvert goes with the intent of spending quality time talking to good
friends.
2. You Enjoy Solitude
As an introvert, your idea of a good time is a quiet afternoon to yourself to
enjoy your hobbies and interests.
A few hours alone with a good book, a peaceful nature walk or your
favorite television program are great ways to help you feel recharged and
energized.
9. 5 Signs You Are an Introvert…2
2. You Enjoy Solitude…. This does not mean ….
Many introverts love spending time with friends and interacting with
familiar people in social situations.
After a long day of social activity, an introvert will probably want to retreat
to a quiet place to think, reflect and recharge.
One of the major characteristics of introverts is that they to expend energy
in social situations, unlike extroverts who gain energy from such interactions.
That doesn't meant that all introverts avoid social events altogether.
Many introverts actually enjoy spending time around others, with one key
caveat – introverts tend to prefer the company of close friends.
While an extrovert might go to a party with the goal to meet new people,
an introvert goes with the intent of spending quality time talking to good
friends.
If having a few hours to be along sounds like your idea of a good time, you
just might be an introvert.
3. You Have a Small Group of Close Friends
One common misconception about introverts is that they don't like people.
While introverts typically do not enjoy a great deal of socializing, they do
enjoy having a small group of friends to whom they are particularly close.
Instead of having a large social circle of people they know only on a
superficial level, introverts prefer to stick to deep, long-lasting relationships
10. 5 Signs You Are an Introvert…3
3. You Have a Small Group of Close Friends..
If your social circle tends to be small but very close, there's a pretty good
chance you are an introvert.
4. People Often Describe You as Quiet and May Find It Difficult to Get to
Know You
Introverts are often described as quiet, reserved, mellow and are sometimes
mistaken for being shy.
While some introverts certainly are shy, people certainly should not
mistake an introvert's reserve for timidity.
In many cases, people with this personality type simply prefer to choose
their words carefully and not waste time or energy on needless chit-chat.
If you are the quiet type and a little bit reserved, you probably are an
introvert.
5. Too Much Stimulation Leaves You Feeling Distracted and Unfocused
When introverts have to spend time in activities or environments that are very
hectic, they can end up feeling unfocused and overwhelmed.
Extroverts, on the other hand, tend to thrive in situations where there is a
lot of activity and few chances of becoming bored.
According to at least one study, researchers have found that introverts
tend to be more easily distracted than extroverts, which is part of the
reason why introverts tend to prefer quieter, less harried settings.
11. 5 Signs You Are an Introvert…4
Final Thoughts
Remember, introversion is not an all-or-nothing
characteristic.
People can be what you might call introverts with
a capital I (aka "very introverted") or they might
be outgoing in some situations with some
introverted tendencies.
Introversion exists on a continuum with
extroversion, and most people tend to lie
somewhere between the two.
One type isn't "better" than the other.
Each tendency can have benefits and drawbacks
depending upon the situation.
By better understanding your personality,
however, you can learn how to play to your
12. What Is Extroversion?
In the big 5 theory of personality, extroversion (often known as extraversion)
is one of the five core traits believed to make up human personality.
Extroversion is characterized by sociability, talkativeness, assertiveness
and excitability.
People who are high in extroversion tend to seek out social stimulation
and opportunities to engage with others.
These individuals are often described as being full of life, energy and
positivity.
In group situations, extroverts (extraverts) are likely to talk often and assert
themselves.
Introverts, on the other hand, are people who are low in extroversion.
They tend to be quiet, reserved and less involved in social situations.
It is important to note that introversion and shyness are not the same thing.
People low in extroversion are not afraid of social situations, they simply prefer
to spend more time alone and do not need as much social stimulation.
Extroverts are often unfairly pegged as overly-talkative or attention-seeking.
In reality, they simply gain energy from engaging in social interaction.
People who are high in extroversion need social stimulation to feel
energized.
They gain inspiration and excitement from talking and discussing ideas with
other people.
13. Common Extroversion Traits
Extroversion is often marked by a
number of different sub-traits. Some of
these include:
Warmth
Seeking novelty and excitement
Gregariousness
Assertiveness
Cheerfulness
Talkativeness
Enjoys being the center of attention
Action-oriented
Friendly
14. What Causes Extroversion?
The exact reason why people tend to be more extroverted
or more introverted has been the subject of considerable
debate and research in psychology.
As with many such debates, the question tend to boil down
to two key contributors: nature or nurture.
Extroversion clearly has a strong genetic component.
Twin studies suggest that genetics contribute somewhere
between 40 and 60 percent of the variance between
extroversion and introversion.
Environment can also have an impact. Sibling studies
have suggested that individual experience carry greater
weight than do shared experiences in families.
Some researchers including Hans Eysenck have
suggested that the variability in this trait might be linked to
differences in cortical arousal.
Extroverts tend to need more external stimulation, while
introverts tend to become stimulated very easily.
15. Extroversion and Behavior
How does extroversion impact our behavior?
Researchers have found that being high in this personality trait is linked to a
number of different tendencies.
In addition to contributing to our personalities, this trait may also play a role in
the type of career that we end up choosing.
According to researchers, extroversion is associated with leadership
behavior.
Since extroverts are more likely to assert themselves in groups, it makes
sense that these individuals often take on leadership roles when working with
other people.
Research has also shown that extroverts are less likely to experience anxiety
over negative feedback.
Those high in extroversion are often described as having a very positive
outlook on life as well as being friendly, energetic and highly adaptable.
All of these tendencies can serve a person well, particularly in certain social
situations.
As you might imagine, high levels of extroversion can be particularly well
suited to jobs that require a great deal of interaction with other people.
Teaching, sales, marketing, public relations, and politics are all jobs in which
an extrovert might to well.
Introverts prefer less social interaction so jobs that require lots of
independent work are often ideal.
16. How Common Is Extroversion?
Recent research indicates that extroversion is less common than previously
thought.
In a study published in Psychological Science, researchers found that
extroverts tend to be overrepresented in social networks.
Because outgoing, popular people tend to have a lot of friends, they are
disproportionately represented in social networks.
“If you’re more extraverted, you may really have a skewed view of how
extraverted other people are in general,” explained researcher Daniel C.
Feiler of Darmouth University.
“If you’re very introverted you might actually have a pretty accurate idea.”
The researchers also suggested that there are two key factors that determine
who people become friends with.
Extroverts tend to be very sociable, making them more likely to form new
friendships than introverts.
People also tend to form friendships with people with similar levels of
extroversion as themselves.
While extroverts are more likely to become friends with other extroverts,
introverts tend to forge relationships with both introverts and extroverts.
To extroverts, it seems like most people are also extroverted because that
personality trait is overrepresented among their group of friends and
acquaintances.
Introverts, however, might have a better grasp on the true structure of social
networks.
17. 5 Signs You Are an Extrovert
Do you love meeting new people?
Does a big social event leave you feeling energized and renewed?
If you can answer yes to these questions, then there is a possibility that you
might just be an extrovert.
What exactly is an extrovert?
On the positive side, extroverts are often described as talkative, sociable,
action-oriented, enthusiastic, friendly, and out-going.
On the negative side, they are sometimes described as attention-seeking,
easily distracted, and unable to spend time alone.
Some of the general characteristics associated with extroversion include:
Numerous, broad interests
Likes to communicate by talking
Enjoys being at the center of attention
Tends to act first before thinking
Enjoys group work
Feels isolated by too much time spent alone
Looks to others and outside sources for ideas and inspiration
Likes to talk about thoughts and feelings
Think you might be an extrovert? Check out our list of five of the key traits
common to this type of personality.
18. 5 Signs You Are an Extrovert
You Love to Talk
You don't just enjoy talking to friends, family members, and co-workers; you
love to strike up conversations with total strangers.
You love to meet new people and learn about their lives.
Unlike introverts who tend to think before they speak, extroverts tend to speak
as a way to explore and organize their thoughts and ideas.
Extroverts also tend to have a wide circle of friends.
Since you are so good at meeting new people, striking up conversations, and
you genuinely enjoy the company of others, it probably is no surprise that
making friends comes easily.
Socializing Helps You Feel Energized and Inspired
Do you tend to feel "charged up" and inspired after you've spent some time
with other people?
Extroverts tend to find such social interactions refreshing and they actually
gain energy from such exchanges.
When extroverts have to spend a lot of time alone, they often begin to feel
uninspired and listless.
If given a choice between spending time alone and spending time with other
people, an extrovert will almost always choose to spend time with a group.
You Like to Solve Problems by Discussing Them
When you are facing a problem, you prefer to discuss the issues and various
options with others.
19. 5 Signs You Are an Extrovert
You Like to Solve Problems by Discussing Them…When you are…..
others.
Talking about it helps you explore the issue in depth and figure out which
option might work the best.
After a difficult day at work or school, talking about it with friends or family can
help you feel less stressed out.
Introverts on the other hand, prefer to think about problems and spend time
alone after a trying day.
People Often Describe You as Friendly and Approachable
Since people with this personality type love interacting with other people so
much, others tend to find extroverts likable and easy to approach.
At a party, an extrovert will probably be the first one to walk up to new guests
and make introductions.
It is for this reason that extroverts typically find it easy to meet new people
and make new friends.
You Are Very Open and People Find It Easy to Get to Know You
While introverts are sometimes perceived as closed-off and aloof, extroverts
are typically very open and willing to share their thoughts and feelings.
Because of this, other people generally find that extroverts are easier to get
to know.
20. Final Thoughts
Remember that extroversion isn't an all
or nothing trait; it's actually a continuum
and some people might be very
extroverted while others are less so.
Extroversion is more common than
introversion and is often valued since
extroverts tend to be skilled at
interacting with others.
This does not mean, however, that one
personality type is 'better' than another.
Each type has its own pluses and
minuses, and you may even find that