Introversion VS extroversion

By M.Farouk Radwan, MSc.

Introversion VS extroversion

Have you ever wondered why do some people prefer to stay alone rather than wanting to go to a party?
Have you ever wondered why do some people become happy as soon as they find themselves surrounded by a large group of people?
Have you ever wondered why do some people appear to be more reserved while others make new friends in seconds?

The answers to these questions lie in the difference between extroversion and introversion. Before you read about the differences between extroverts and introverts you must take into consideration that people can’t be categorized only into two big groups of extroverts and introverts because there are people who fit in between.

You can safely assume that there are extroverts, introverts and people who share some common traits with both.

Definition of Extrovert

The extrovert is a person who seeks satisfaction through social interactions. Whenever he finds himself with lots of people he feels happy, satisfied and even high. Extroverts prefer group gatherings rather than staying alone. Extroverts make friends fast, tend to speak more and they sometimes like to be in the center of attention.

Definition of Introvert

The introvert charges his energy by staying alone and by doing activities like reading or listening to music. Contrary to what some people believe, introverts can love social life but they tend to prefer to stay with few close friends over staying in a crowded place.

Introverts don’t care about being in the center of attention and they may feel irritated if surrounded by a large number of people.

Shyness and introversion

Introversion is not the same as shyness. While introverts prefer to be alone on intention shy people are forced to stay alone even though they might want to connect with others.

An introvert might not mind to attend a social gathering although he may prefer doing something else but a shy person may want to attend that gathering yet find it difficult because of his shyness.

If you like social gatherings but feel uncomfortable while being with people then you are a shy person and not an introvert.

Can an Extrovert be shy?

Yes that could happen depending on his past. The extrovert may grow up as a shy person who fears social interactions. In such a case he won’t be aware of the fact that he is an extrovert unless he discovers by coincidence that he enjoys being with people.

If he dealt with shyness he will become a normal extrovert. This is where another interesting theory comes into the spotlight. Some people say that introversion is an illness that a person develops when he has problems connecting with people.

The same theory states that if the introvert got over his problems he will become a normal extrovert. Thus the theory assumes that extroversion is the normal human trait and that introversion is an illness.

Introverts and extroverts in relationships

Introverts may prefer to stay with their partners in quite places while extroverts will want to go to a party or a crowded place.

Extroverts will prefer to hang out than to stay at home while introverts may prefer the opposite. It’s important that both introverts and extroverts pay attention to these points before starting a relationship together else lots of conflicts will arise and they won't be able to have a healthy relationship.

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