Introverts – What makes them tick?

by Gail Diamond Fri, Jun 1. 2012

Do you often find yourself bowing out of social outings, crowded events, or small talk, all the while preferring to settle down to a good book, or some other solitary activity such as writing, painting, drawing, gardening, computing, or the innards of an old electronic item to search for its how-and-why? Do you need ‘me-time’ to recharge, even after a much enjoyed outing, when someone else you know is ‘totally amped up’ following the same?{{more}} Then you might be in the club of introverts; unfortunately, a sometimes misunderstood club.

Introverts are well out-numbered by extroverts; there are an estimated 25% introverts to 75% extroverts. Yet, after reading this piece you might find yourself nodding the inclusion of a spouse, partner, associate, friend, schoolmate, neighbour, or family member into the minority group. As such, it is important to understand what makes the introvert tick. Furthermore, the many labels such as weird, strange, queer, shy, reserved, aloof, loner, snob, antisocial, laidback, moody, difficult, or too serious can be dispelled with better insight into the introverts among us.

The introvert is induced by his/her own thoughts and feelings and draws energy from within, so that long periods of solitary occupation and introspection up their energy. The extrovert is preoccupied with and dependent on his/her physical and social environment. They will likely report being bored, restless or lonely after an hour or two in their own company and begin to crave some social interaction and attention. The extrovert becomes increasingly energized with more social interaction, almost like charging a cell/battery. The opposite is true for the introvert who, as time wears on, can become correspondingly drained. Ever went to a party with someone who wanted to leave after an hour or two, while you were just getting started?

This does not mean that introverts shun social activity; quite the contrary. They just require it in smaller doses or for shorter duration. This may explain why some apparent spotlight-seeking persons such as tv broadcasters, stand-up comedians, and actors are acknowledged introverts.

Introverts are sometimes misjudged to be shy or poor conversationalists. The introvert would rather skip the small talk, water cooler discussions and the like. Whereas they might not hang around ‘ole talking’, they would quickly engage on an issue or idea of depth or complexity. Indeed, when invested in a particular topic it could be difficult to get them to change the subject! They are also more likely to listen and observe during discussions before bringing out their thoughts. For the quick-talking extrovert, this can be misconstrued as disinterest or a lack of knowledge since thoughts cannot be ‘seen’.

Some introverts can be classed separately from the general category. They experience greater challenges with themselves and their environment, demonstrating poor communication skills, a low self-concept, shyness, strong sensitivities, fear and anxiety. This group is best helped through early (childhood) identification of these instabilities, which means that family practices and school/classroom culture are critical.

There are physiological differences in the way the brain is wired for an introvert and extrovert. Studies of the introvert’s brain show increased blood flow/ brain activity to the front regions (frontal lobe and anterior thalmus). These areas are associated with memory, problem solving and planning. In extroverts, there is increased blood flow/brain activity to the posterior regions (posterior thalmus, posterior insula) that drive sensory and emotional experiences. Differences are also seen in the distribution of certain neurochemicals, but in the interest of brevity will not be discussed here. However, the biological distinctions should be taken into consideration when introverts and extroverts interact and communicate. Additionally, there are implications for how behaviour and performance are rewarded or punished, and how responsibilities are assigned to introverts and extroverts.

Here are some known things about introverts: Strong self-awareness; High inner confidence; Very observant; Keen listeners; Analytical; Think to themselves before talking or acting; Not given to small talk. They will, however, engage animatedly on ideas and complex issues; Smaller circle of friends than the extrovert; Form very deep, longterm friendships, with trust being a significant requirement; Private; Not prone to discuss personal details/issues outside of close circle of friends; Less trusting; Creative/vivid imagination; quiet, but not to be confused with shyness (Extroverts can also be shy); need to have own ‘space’; calm.

Notwithstanding the many positive characteristics, the introvert is often regarded as of lesser value and weaker currency. This position is helped along by Western society, foremost the USA, which celebrates extroversion, assertivenes, and those who speak up first and loudly. After all, don’t we bemoan the fact that child B is not as outgoing as child A, does not take the lead and is not the chief butterfly at the event? Don’t we acquiesce to the decision that overlooks the promotion of an otherwise competent co-worker because of ‘personality’ paucity?

On the contrary, countries in Asia, such as Japan, as well as some countries of Central Europe favour the introvert. Given the dominance of Western culture and the fact that extroverts make up 75% of the world population, it is easy to appreciate the preference for the extroverted personality type. Understand, however, that it can be injurious to push someone to assume the antithetical personality type. The important thing is for each to understand the other’s requirements and expectations, so that suitable adaptations and negotiations might be made for time, space and energy.

Research continues to show that introverts make good leaders. Forbes magazine reports that as many as 40% of US executives claim to be introverts. This rate is higher than one might expect, and counterintuitive, since charisma and gregariousness are unspoken requisites for leadership roles across several disciplines. Dr Jennifer B. Khanweiler, author and leading expert on the introverted leader, contends that introverts bring a complementary set of power tools to leadership teams. Thoughtful listening and analysis before responding, digging deep into issues, remaining calm under pressure, great at writing and documenting their positions are some of the strengths of an introverted leader.

Empirical studies show that the introspective nature of introverts, their analytical approach to the abstract, and capacity for long periods of concentration give the advantage of higher scholastic achievement rates, particularly at university level.

Some well-known introverts include Abraham Lincoln, Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, Ronald Reagan, Julia Roberts, Matt Lauer, Diane Sawyer, Warren Buffet, and for the sake of a great debate, I would venture Jesus Christ.

The introvert personality responds to the environment in distinct ways. The introvert is not a social, but differently oriented to social stimuli. Neither are they the dark underbelly of the extrovert. We dare not consider a world of extroverts only, and appreciating the differences of introverts inivites tolerance, diversity and balance.