Extroversion/Introversion: Difficult To Determine…For Me
Posted: Wednesday, February 15, 2012
by Joel Hendon
http://hebronics.org/index.html
Before today, I had never really tried to research the details of Introversion or Extroversion but had concluded that I was an introvert based on one particular hang-up. I find it stressful when I have to sit in an assembly unless I am sitting next to an aisle. That is in church services, movies or anywhere else. But after doing a little research, I do not believe that has much to do with the subject. Here, is seemingly a valid explanation of what the terms involve:
From the perspective of psychological research, however, these concepts are understood differently. Rather than being seen as two sides of a coin, introversion/extraversion is measured in terms of a scale or spectrum, where most people (about 68% of the population) fall in the middle ranges, showing varying degrees of extraverted or introverted traits. This middle ground has been called "ambiversion." Research subjects characterized as extraverts and introverts represent the extremes on the scale, with about 16% representation for each (Bartol & Bartol (2008). "Criminal Behavior: A Psychosocial Approach". Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: 8th Edition)
THEREFORE, I must consider myself in the 68%, a true “ambivert”! I do have symptoms of both extremes I suppose. I enjoy socializing with others, which means extroversion, but there are often times when I would rather be petting animals, which probably indicates introversion.
When I was a child, I am sure that I would have classified as an introvert, although not extremely so. I felt very uncomfortable in a group of strangers, but felt quite well amid a gang of my acquaintances.
Whenever I am hospitalized for any reason, I only enjoy having my immediate family visit me. Others, regardless of their well meaning, I find I am unable to converse comfortably with them. And I am relieved when they leave. I believe, if I were fully clothed and able to be sitting up, with all the tubes and paraphernalia gone, the feeling would be changed entirely. I get the feeling I am looked upon sympathetically if not disdainfully. (that is a little too deep for my comprehension)
And, I have several little similar idiosyncrasies. It makes me wonder sometime if it is not ultra tiny “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” syndromes.
I fear that I sometimes (or maybe many times) try to be the “funny man” in the crowd a little too much. I turn things into a joke quite often that many feel would have been better if it remained serious. I don’t mean to be obnoxious, but the funny thought appears and I say it. But, this is not to say that I monopolize the conversation. I just interject my short response. The more I think about it, I believe I am still an introvert. Maybe just a confused one.
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Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)Good morning, Joel. I always like to read your writings and this was no exception. I like that you took the time to research, then add your personal touch.
Several years ago, when giving a personality test for something, the facilitator clarified the definition by adding "To recharge your battery, do you look for a place with people interaction or solitude?" That helped with the "iffyness" of which category we fell into. Danny is an introvert...all the way. I used to be an extrovert, but over the last several years I have changed. I really like to just be home with Danny, a book, some yard work and our pups. Oh, and of course the kids and grands now and then! I am content and very blessed.
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