Introverts recharge alone, extroverts thrive socially, and ambiverts blend both.
Extroversion-introversion exists on a spectrum influenced by biology and environment.
Understanding each other’s preferences aids introvert-extrovert relationships.
By nature, I’ve always sought out quiet places where I can experience the joy of deep conversation or academic study and focus. I’ve also benefited from the buzz of conferences and family gatherings, though I seek time alone afterward to recover.
Few of us are at the very extremes of the introvert vs. extrovert spectrum. Instead, whether we naturally seek out social experiences or prefer solitude, most of us enjoy exploring situations outside our comfort zone.
This article examines the introvert vs. extrovert spectrum. It seeks to define the two extremes and reflect on the path and infinite possibilities between them to help us as mental health professionals support our clients.
Before you continue, we thought you might like to download our three Positive Psychology Exercises for free. These science-based exercises will explore fundamental aspects of positive psychology including strengths, values, and self-compassion, and will give you the tools to enhance the wellbeing of your clients, students, or employees.
Introvert vs. Extrovert: Understanding the Spectrum
In recent decades, a great deal of research has validated the five-factor model of personality. Often referred to as the Big Five, it breaks human personality into five broad traits: openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism (Larsen et al., 2017; Cooper, 2021).
Studies have shown extraversion (also spelled extroversion) to be incredibly impactful, influencing how we handle various situations, particularly social ones (Cooper, 2021; Lukaszewski et al., 2020).
A brief history lesson
The initial concepts of introversion and extroversion can be traced to Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung (1923) and his classic book Psychological Types. Jung identified extroverts as “directing an outward flow of personal energy to the social environment” and introverts as “directing an inward flow of personal energy focused on internal factors” (Walker, 2021, p. 160).
Hans Eysenck, and later his son Michael (Eysenck & Eysenck, 1985), built on Jung’s ideas by integrating them into the PEN model of personality, encompassing three core dimensions, or traits (Walker, 2021):
Psychoticism (P)
The propensity to be impulsive, aggressive, tough minded, and nonconforming
Extraversion–introversion (E)
Tending toward sociable, energetic, and outgoing rather than quiet, reserved, and reflective
Neuroticism–emotional stability (N)
Inclining toward moodiness, anxiety, and worry over calmness and resilience
Our evolving understanding of what it means to be an introvert vs. an extrovert offers many insights into our personalities and how they influence our thinking and behavior (Larsen et al., 2017).
What is introversion?
Internal thoughts and personal exploration typically energize introverts. They are more sensitive to processing stimuli and prefer stability and listening over social interactions.
Research also suggests they typically require greater separation between their work and home life (Tohver, 2021).
What is extraversion?
Extroverts are often bold and energized by increased external excitement or social activity. They prefer larger sets of friends, thrill seeking, and assertiveness (Tohver, 2021).
They are also more sensitive to extrinsic, reward-based stimuli, and research suggests increased testosterone levels in men and women and social dominance (Lukaszewski et al., 2020).
The enlightening and engaging video Casually Explained: Introverts and Extraverts introduces several key concepts and differences between the two ends of the spectrum.
Casually explained: Introverts and extraverts
10 Characteristics of an Introvert
Researchers confirm our intuitive understanding of the characteristics of introverted and extroverted personalities.
However, it’s important to note that these are generalizations rather than absolutes (Cooper, 2021).
An introvert typically (Walker, 2021; Tohver, 2021):
Has a few close friends
Is comfortable with an organized and routine lifestyle
Focuses on their inner mental world and directs personal energy inward
Avoids overstimulating situations and is more passive
Engages in quiet, reserved behaviors to maintain their level of arousal
Is energized by internal thoughts and personal exploration
Experiences heightened sensitivity when processing stimuli
Prefers stability and listening in social interactions
Requires greater separation between work and home to manage their stress
4 types of introverts
We can categorize introverts into various types based on their traits and how they behave (Grimes et al., 2011).
Social introverts prefer smaller groups rather than large social gatherings.
Thinking introverts are content to spend much of their time deep in thought, enjoying introspection and contemplation.
Anxious introverts tend to feel nervous or self-conscious in social situations, even relatively small ones.
Restrained introverts may overthink their actions and be more reserved about what they do and say.
Extroverted introvert
An extroverted introvert is an individual who is primarily aligned with the traits of an introvert but can adapt their behavior to social settings by showing extrovert characteristics (Walker, 2021; Tohver, 2021).
We often associate introvert vs. extrovert personalities with traits at either end of a spectrum. However, most people exist between the two (Larsen et al., 2017).
An extrovert typically (Walker, 2021; Tohver, 2021):
Is more outgoing in social situations
Is highly talkative and social
Is energized by social interactions and frequent interaction with others
Shows assertive tendencies
Is active and constantly seeks new experiences
Enjoys attending parties
Can experience higher levels of positive emotions, such as excitement and enthusiasm (known as positive affect)
Is thrill and novelty seeking
Is sensitive to reward stimuli and insensitive to punishment stimuli
Prefers large, socially similar networks
4 types of extroverts
While research is less clear on the different types of extroverts, it’s worth looking back to Carl Jung’s (1923) early definitions for some ideas:
Extroverted thinkers are goal-oriented, high achievers who prioritize objective data and logical analysis.
Extroverted feelers value harmony and interpersonal relationships and enjoy connecting with others.
Extroverted sensors focus on immediate sensory experiences and are inspired by physical stimulation.
Extroverted intuitives enjoy thinking abstractly and are drawn to possibilities and future potential.
Introverted extrovert
An introverted extrovert is not at the extreme (extrovert) end of the introvert vs. extrovert spectrum. Instead, while seeking out engaging social settings, they also appreciate and require some time alone (Walker, 2021; Tohver, 2021).
Introvert vs. Extrovert: The Differences
To gain a more complete picture of introvert vs. extrovert personalities, it’s helpful to consider how they differ on several themes.
Personality
We can often identify introverts by their reserved, quiet, and passive nature and extroverts by their outgoing, talkative, and assertive behaviors. Peaceful focus time energizes the former, while higher amounts of external activity boost the latter (Walker, 2021; Tohver, 2021).
Neurological
Surprisingly, introverts have higher resting levels of cortical arousal, meaning they are more sensitive to stimuli.
Introverts display more increased brain activity, particularly in the right brain hemisphere and vestibular and somatosensory brain regions, following stimuli than extroverts and may, therefore, need lower levels of external stimulation to maintain their optimal state of arousal (Walker, 2021; Tohver, 2021).
Happiness
Introverts are more prone to neurotic tendencies than extroverts, who are more tuned to positive stimuli and social interactions.
The latter are typically more assertive and may experience less social anxiety, so they are more likely to be happier and have an overall positive sense of wellbeing (Walker, 2021; Tohver, 2021).
Relationships
Introverts are often more thoughtful in their social activities. They prefer smaller, close-knit networks than extroverts and develop their friendships over time.
“Research indicates that extraversion encourages large, homophilic (socially similar) networks while introversion promotes small heterophilic networks” (Tohver, 2021, p. 164).
Extroverts require less stability and thrive on the energy and power of their evolving relationships (Tohver, 2021).
Workplace
Introverts prefer increased separation between the home and workplace to manage stress and wellbeing.
Roles that prioritize independent work and less social interaction are ideal for introverts. Extroverts like to engage in friendly, active behaviors, so they excel in roles that require networking, teamwork, and frequent social interaction (Cooper, 2021).
Strengths
Introverts excel in environments requiring sensitivity to stimuli, where they can use their core strengths such as caution and detailed processing. They are effective listeners and provide thoughtful, well-considered responses and output. On the other hand, extroverts may prefer to use their boldness, assertiveness, and high energy, which can make them effective motivators and influential leaders (Tohver, 2021).
It’s important to note that the above points are generalizations and highlight extremes on the introvert vs. extrovert spectrum. While based on research, they suggest typical reactions rather than those specific to an individual or a situation (Cooper, 2021).
The following comparison table summarizes the differences between introvert vs. extrovert personalities (Walker, 2021; Tohver, 2021).
Introvert
Extrovert
Social Interaction
Prefers a few close friends and smaller social settings
Enjoys larger social networks and thrives in group interactions
Energy Source
Energized by internal thoughts and personal reflection
Energized by external activity and social engagement
Behavior in Groups
More passive, listens actively, and avoids overstimulation
Bold, assertive, and takes the lead in social scenarios
Preferred Lifestyle
Comfortable with routine and stability
Actively seeks new experiences and thrives on variety
Sensitivity to Stimuli
Highly sensitive to external stimuli, requiring quiet environments for balance
Displays higher sensitivity to rewards and often seeks thrills or novel experiences
Brain Activity
Exhibits greater post-stimulation brain activity
Reacts strongly to reward-based stimuli but less so to punishment cues
Often experiences high levels of positive emotions, such as excitement and enthusiasm
Social Preference
Values deep, meaningful relationships over wide social networks
Prefers larger groups and frequent interactions with a variety of people
Work-Life Separation
Prefers clear boundaries between work and home to reduce stress
More comfortable blending work and social life
Adaptability
May avoid sudden changes or disruptions to their routine
Open to new challenges and adapts easily to dynamic situations
What Is an Ambivert?
While we have considered introvert vs. extrovert personality types as two extremes on a scale, we should keep in mind that it’s not always that straightforward.
Our personality is not fixed
“Individuals typically show great variation in their extraversion–introversion tendency across their lifespan” (Tohver, 2021, p. 164).
Research shows that during our career, we may develop more extrovert tendencies out of necessity to meet the needs of our role. At the same time, as we age, we typically find that extraversion declines, and there is a rise in introversion (Tohver, 2021).
Sitting in the middle
While not widely adopted, Edmund S. Conklin introduced the term “ambivert” as far back as 1923 to recognize individuals in the middle of the introvert vs. extrovert spectrum (Petric, 2022).
Despite the relative stability of personal traits, we will likely adopt elements of both extremes in the short and long term, depending on circumstances and personal needs (Cooper, 2021).
Free personalized resource for you - take the quiz
The Introvert vs. Extrovert Quiz
The Big Five personality model is one of the most well-validated and widely accepted frameworks in personality psychology (Cooper, 2021).
As a result, the Big Five Personality Test provides an effective measure for introvert vs. extrovert personality traits, along with the other four factors in the five-factor model: openness, conscientiousness, agreeableness, and neuroticism.
The quiz consists of 50 statements scored on a five-point scale from agree to disagree and offers a valuable tool for better understanding our clients and the personality factors driving their behavior.
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Expand your arsenal and impact with these 17 Positive Psychology Exercises [PDF], scientifically designed to promote human flourishing, meaning, and wellbeing.
5 Books & TED Talks on Extraversion & Introversion
The following three books explore aspects of introvert vs. extrovert personality types and have received highly positive reviews. They also include two of our favorite authors on the subject.
1. Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking – Susan Cain
Susan Cain’s fascinating New York Times bestseller explores the power of being an introvert.
Rather than a disadvantage, we learn how preferring to listen rather than speak and choosing to innovate rather than self-promote is vital to individual and group success.
Cain introduces us to many influential introverts and how they use their personal, introverted strengths to create a path to success.
2. Quiet Power: Growing Up as an Introvert in a World That Can’t Stop Talking – Susan Cain
In our next choice, Susan Cain turns her attention to young people, sharing the potential quiet children have for living a full life and impacting the world.
Aimed at 9- to 13-year-olds and their parents, it normalizes the need for quiet and focus and recognizes an introvert’s potential for success.
3. The Powerful Purpose of Introverts: Why the World Needs You to Be You – Holley Gerth
Holley Gerth expertly explains what it means to be an introvert and showcases many famous people who shy away from the limelight.
In this valuable book, we learn how introverts can make meaningful connections and have unexpected influences on the world without losing sight of who they are.
The following TEDx Talks offer further insights into introvert vs. extrovert personality types:
In The Power of Introverts, Susan Cain expands on many of the ideas shared in her books and takes the viewer on a personal yet relatable life journey as an introvert.
The power of introverts - Susan Cain
Eamon Ryan’s TEDx Talk, Introverts, Extroverts, and Ambiverts?, digs deep into his introverted personality traits as an award-winning filmmaker.
Introverts, extroverts, and ambiverts? - Eamon Ryan
Resources From PositivePsychology.com
We have many resources available for mental health practitioners working with their clients to understand their personality types better, including their position on the introvert vs. extrovert spectrum.
Our free resources include:
Spotting Good Traits
Try this reflection activity with clients to spot positive character traits in themselves and others.
Friendship Ingredients
Children can use this exercise to practice reflecting on the traits that make for good friends.
I Love My Classmate
This creative exercise teaches young people to appreciate their talents and strengths and those of others.
Creating quiet time
Quiet can help us form stronger connections with our inner worlds, making us more comfortable with silence.
Try out the following four steps:
Step one: Schedule quiet time, such as walking home in silence.
Step two: Use that time to mindfully connect with your inner self and your environment. Do not use headphones or check your phone for the duration.
Step three: Track the quiet times and reflect on how you felt.
Step four: At the end of each week, reflect on the benefits you experienced from quiet times and when you could schedule more.
Identifying personal rules
Introvert and extrovert personalities can communicate and balance relationships very differently. Clients benefit from becoming aware of their personal rules and learning to control them.
Try out the following four steps:
Step one: Create a list of personal rules.
Step two: How important is each one to you?
Step three: Identify any that are having an adverse effect.
Step four: Try breaking the damaging ones and reflect on how you feel.
It can seem like extroverts have all the fun. “Extraverts love to party – they engage in frequent social interaction, take the lead in livening up dull gatherings, and enjoy talking a lot” (Larsen et al., 2017, p. 69).
But where our clients sit on the introvert vs. extrovert spectrum does not define their degree of enjoyment or life satisfaction. Instead, it suggests where they may find it.
While extroverts look toward large social meetings and bold actions and constantly seek new experiences, introverts engage in quiet focus or deep conversation with a few trusted friends.
Though we typically discuss the extremes of the introvert vs. extrovert scale, most of us are somewhere between the two. We may prefer quiet time yet still enjoy engaging with those with a shared focus, or we may crave the energy of a group but restore our energy by spending time alone.
Ultimately, it is neither a problem nor limiting so long as our position along the spectrum does not prevent us or our loved ones from living whole and engaging lives.
As mental health practitioners, we can help our clients become aware of the traits of introverts and extroverts and examine when they, or others, are acting in ways that are not aligned with their values.
How do I know if I’m an introvert or an extrovert?
If you are an introvert, you are most likely energized by spending time alone and prefer smaller gatherings. However, if you are an extrovert, you enjoy larger social occasions and meeting new people.
Do introverts have social anxiety?
While some introverts experience social anxiety, many do not. Though introverts may prefer solitude, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are uncomfortable in social gatherings.
Can introverts be talkative?
Many introverts have extrovert traits or can adopt them in social situations. This is particularly true when they find themselves in smaller groups, feel comfortable, and engage in deeper conversations.
References
Cooper, C. (2021). Individual differences and personality. Routledge.
Eysenck, H. J., & Eysenck, M. W. (1985). Personality and individual differences: A natural science approach. Plenum Press.
Grimes, J. O., Cheek, J. M., & Norem, J. K. (2011). Four meanings of introversion: social, thinking, anxious, and inhibited introversion. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/263279416
Jung, C. G. (1923). Psychological types: Or the psychology of individuation. Harcourt, Brace.
Larsen, R., Buss, D., Wismeijer, A., & Song, J. (2017). Personality psychology: domains of knowledge about human nature. Mcgraw-Hill Education.
Lukaszewski, A. W. (2020). Extraversion. In V. Zeigler-Hill & T.K. Shackleford (Eds.), Encyclopedia of personality and individual differences (pp. 1514–1519). Springer, Cam. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-24612-3_1071
Tohver, G. C. (2021). Extraversion, personality correlate of. In B.J. Carducci & C.S. Nave (Eds.), The Wiley encyclopedia of personality and individual differences, models and theories (pp. 161–165). John Wiley & Sons, Incorporated.
Walker, D. L. (2021). Extraversion – Introversion. In B.J. Carducci & C.S. Nave (Eds.), The Wiley encyclopedia of personality and individual differences, models and theories (pp. 159–163). John Wiley & Sons, Incorporated.
About the author
Jeremy Sutton, Ph.D., is an experienced psychologist, coach, consultant, and psychology lecturer. He works with individuals and groups to promote resilience, mental toughness, strength-based coaching, emotional intelligence, wellbeing, and flourishing. Alongside teaching psychology at the University of Liverpool, he is an amateur endurance athlete who has completed numerous ultra-marathons and is an Ironman.
Nicole Celestine, Ph.D.
on March 17, 2021 at 03:20
Hi Geneen,
Thank you for your question. It depends on which theory you aim to understand introversion and extroversion through, as this dichotomy appears in several theories of personality. For instance, if you’re considering introversion-extroversion through the lens of Myers-Briggs, this framework has quite a few well-documented weaknesses (you can read more about those here). The Big-5 model also has its own criticisms (see here).
By nature, I’ve always sought out quiet places where I can experience the joy of deep conversation or academic study and focus. I’ve also benefited from the buzz of conferences and family gatherings, though I seek time alone afterward to recover.
While we have considered introvert vs. extrovert personality types as two extremes on a scale, we should keep in mind that it’s not always that straightforward.
What our readers think
Hiiii, can you tell me a weakness of this theory?
Hi Geneen,
Thank you for your question. It depends on which theory you aim to understand introversion and extroversion through, as this dichotomy appears in several theories of personality. For instance, if you’re considering introversion-extroversion through the lens of Myers-Briggs, this framework has quite a few well-documented weaknesses (you can read more about those here). The Big-5 model also has its own criticisms (see here).
Hope this helps!
– Nicole | Community Manager