

Both introverts and extroverts can experience anxiety, including social anxiety. People sometimes confuse introversion for social anxiety.

They may display other personality traits and even share some with extroverts. They simply draw their energy in a different way than extroverts do.Īlthough the above traits may fit with an introvert’s personality, an introvert is not always only quiet, reserved, or independent. However, introverts are not necessarily ultra-shy, unfriendly, or socially awkward. People often associate introversion with negative personality traits. One 2015 study suggests that high quality relationships are key to happiness for introverts. They may enjoy independent activities that allow them to refuel their energy stores.Īlthough introverts might enjoy certain social situations, interacting with other people tends to be draining for them.Īn introvert may also prefer to have a close circle of friends instead of many acquaintances. Introverts usually like to be alone and recharge by spending time by themselves. Some introverts did score highly for quality of social relationships, but they were in the minority. The study associated happiness with higher relationship quality. One 2015 study found that extroverts were happier overall than introverts. They do not usually have big groups of friends and prefer to befriend or get to know a few people. Introverts are usually more comfortable in smaller groups or alone. For introverts, the response to this kind of dopamine release is overstimulation. For extroverts, dopamine - when the body releases it in response to social interactions - elicits satisfaction. Unlike introverts, they gain energy from social situations.Ī 2007 study suggests that extroverts react differently to dopamine. They are comfortable in group settings and tend to have a large social circle. Highly stimulating situations with lots of social interaction are draining for introverts, while these types of encounters tend to fuel extroverts.Įxtroverts usually enjoy being with others and have outgoing personalities. Introverts obtain their energy from within, while extroverts prefer active involvement in events and activities involving other people.
