When you hear the word “introvert,” what do you think of? Is it simply someone who likes to spend time alone and tends to be introspective? Is it, on the other hand, a person who indulges in daydreaming during social occasions? These two scenarios are likely not incorrect, as they are typical of the traits that introverts possess.
According to Healthline, an introvert is someone who prefers to focus on themselves and their ideas instead of what is happening outside of them. Individuals who exhibit this particular quality are classified as having an introverted personality type. Although this may be the case for most introverts, there is much more to this personality type than we can imagine.
Not all introverts are antisocial because there’s more to them than their antisocial behaviour. Instead, they display a diverse range of personality traits. There are also some introverts who appreciate being only around people they are close to. This means that they prefer spending time with a few people rather than a large group.
Being an introvert doesn’t define your personality completely. Some people are more introverted than others, and others fall somewhere in between. The ones who fall in between are commonly referred to as ambiverts. Ambiverts possess traits that are a combination of an introvert (individual who prefers solitude) and an extrovert (individual who prefers social interaction) in their personality. These individuals are sometimes referred to as outgoing or social introverts.
Read more: Introversion: 10 reasons why you don’t enjoy being around people
Although it’s easy to think of an introvert as a shy person who prefers to stay home alone, there are actually different kinds of introverts, each with their own unique set of characteristics. According to research conducted by a psychology professor at Wellesley College, there are four common types of introverts. They include the following:
1. Social Introverts
Social introverts are a blend of the most outgoing and, in some situations, private of the four types. When the mood is right, they might even have more fun because they don’t feel shy or worried in social situations. However, if they stay out too long, they may feel emotionally exhausted and develop anxiety.
Even though social introverts enjoy spending time alone, they still don’t mind if a few close friends come around. This reliable group of friends tends to make them the most social when they’re with them. Some people, who may not be familiar with them, may think they are extroverts. Social introverts, on the other hand, won’t share any personal info with anyone else besides their closest buddies.
2. Thinking Introverts
These kinds of introverts tend to spend a lot of time thinking or, as some may say, daydreaming. They are both a mix of introspective and creative. Thinking introverts also do not mind socializing, but they don’t often because they can’t escape from their imagination. They are regularly distracted by daydreams and can appear distant to people who are not familiar with them. Every so frequently, you may see them in an open space, sitting alone, thinking.
Thinking introverts engage in deep thought and exhibit greater sensitivity towards their emotions than the average individual. It may be difficult to connect with thinking introverts because they have a different way of thinking and prefer to live their thoughts instead of explaining them to others.
3. Anxious Introverts
Have you ever met someone who frequently thinks about past social experiences and wonders what they did wrong or what they could have done better? These guys are usually anxious introverts.
Anxious introverts regularly feel uncomfortable or nervous around people during social interactions. An anxious introvert may be more accurately referred to as the shy introvert, to distinguish between anxiety disorders and anxious introversion.
Anxious introverts like to be alone, even when they have many friends nearby. They are not comfortable in new or large social settings and constantly evaluate their actions when they’re in public. But it’s important to know that this type of personality is different from social anxiety disorder because in some extreme cases, this negative reaction to social situations may turn into social anxiety.
Anyone can suffer from social anxiety or other anxiety disorders. If one avoids social situations because of strong physical reactions, such as shaking, heightened heart rate, or nausea, it may be social anxiety rather than shyness, which will call for professional help.
4. Restrained Introverts
You’re likely to have come across this type of introvert at some point in your life, as they’re usually your next-door neighbours or close buddies.
Restrained introverts experience discomfort when they feel rushed into situations, particularly those that involve social interaction. These types of introverts are typically reserved, thoughtful, and resistant to change. They tend to think too much and spend a lot of time thinking before deciding.
They appreciate being informed about forthcoming plans and will never change their lifestyle. If an event is not planned ahead according to their timing, they will not go out, even if you came knocking at their door to beg them. They enjoy relaxing with their favorite shows, reading, or sleeping.
Restrained introverts often find comfort in their routine and find it challenging to get their mind and body moving right after they wake up.
Conclusion
Let nobody deceive you, almost everyone in this generation is an introvert! However, you may find that many introverts have a combination of qualities from these four types.
Many introverts also have qualities that you wouldn’t think are typical of their personality type. For example, there are many introverts who enjoy social interaction. You may even be surprised to learn that many people you consider to be extroverts may actually be introverts.
Knowing your personality type is important because it allows you to express your wants and connect with people who are compatible with you. This process will help you build relationships with them.
If you think that you are an introvert, but don’t identify with any of the four personality types, you may be an ambivert or closer to the extrovert side of the spectrum.
Photo credit : Los Angeles Times (High School Insider)
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