Let's Talk - We're Extroverts!

So, in our last article, we spoke about the different types of Introverts. In this article, we will dive into the next end of the spectrum and speak about Extroverts. Psychiatrist Carl Jung (Jungian Theory) from as far back as the early 1900s reported that extroversion or an extroverted person is externally motivated and stimulat, that is, by the environment, while an introverted person is stimulated internally through his/her thoughts, dreams and imagination. In essence, extroversion refers to a state of being where persons “recharge,” or draw their energy from being with other people and feel drained or demotivated when alone. Extroversion, according to more modern behaviourists is more concerned with outgoingness, high energy and talkativeness. However, research has found that

extroverted people are extroverted only 5-10% more often than introverts and introverts tend to be more akin to social monitoring and presenting themselves as extroverts in situations. Interesting right?

Extroverted people tend to feel most comfortable when working with other people, whether the task is a work project, party planning with friends, or a school assignment. These individuals might organize the group, keep it running smoothly, or even jump in as the leader. At work, extroverts seek variety and action and like working with other people. Their energy is outward in focus towards people and things; thus, they prefer work that has breadth rather than depth. Introverts, on the other hand, like to engage in thinking and imagining, so depth rather than breadth is more suited for them.

Similar to Introversion, there are variations in the types of extroversion. Extroversion can be broken down into two components: Affiliative Extroversion and Agentic Extroversion. These categories look at the different motives for wanting to be around people.

Let’s explore!

1) Agentic Extraversion focuses on reaction to reward, engagement with goals and achievement, persistence, and taking a leadership position whenever you have the opportunity. It’s about being comfortable in the limelight.

2) Affiliative Extraversion is a dimension of social warmth. This type of extrovert really enjoys close social relationships. They are fully engaged in social settings and tend to have a very large group of meaningful friendships.

Though there are only two types of extroverts compared to the four types of introverts, the

distinction is clear and you should be able to identify which category you fall in, or where along the spectrum you fall (if you feel like you identify with both).

And finally, a little bonus! To determine if you are more introverted or extroverted you can use a personality test. There are several online personality tests that can help you make the

determination. These personality tests can reveal not just introversion and extraversion but other traits about your personality, such as the influence of your emotions on decision making or how your brain processes information. One of the most common tests used by academics is the Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI personality test).

Have you ever done a personality test? You can do one online today to learn more about you. Try this link and let us know! Remember to share your comments!

Personality Test - https://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test.

VP Shauna McLeod and Kiw Rakeisha Williams