No, an introvert can not become an extrovert. Introversion and extroversion are how the brain is hardwired to gain energy, deal with outside stimulation, and process information. Being an introvert is who you are, not something that can or should be fixed.
If you started out very introverted, you may develop more extraverted traits later in life. Or you may consciously choose to develop your capacity for extraversion. But either way, it's not the same as being an Extravert.
Introversion isn't totally genetic. It gets influenced by your environment at a young age, and our genes allow a certain amount of flexibility in response. This happens through “set points,” which are the upper and lower limits of how much extroversion your brain can handle.
Depending on the social situation, the mood, and who they're around, someone who is an ambivert can flip a switch and turn their personality into an extrovert, or when tired, in difficult moments, and around toxic people, ambiverts can switch into introversion.
An introvert changing their behavior to be more extroverted is definitely possible, but it has to be intentional — and it's also difficult. "Think of it like swimming upstream against the current — it's possible, but draining, too," says Martinez.
Unlike temperament, which is more stable, our personalities change as we age, learn, and grow. Introversion is considered a temperament — a general way of approaching the world — so for the vast majority of people, it won't change dramatically over time.
Around one-third to one-half of all people in the U.S. are introverts. Though it looks different in everyone, introverts have many of the same patterns of behavior.
Introverts tend to experience more anticipatory anxiety and anxiety disorders than extroverts. Anxiety typically means your stress response is constantly activated, even if there's no clear cause for it.
Not only is Einstein one of the most famous scientists in history, but he was also a known introvert. Leaning into his introverted nature, Einstein believed that his creativity and success came from keeping to himself. He said, “The monotony and solitude of a quiet life stimulates the creative mind.”
Introverts, stop acting like extroverts to be successful—do this instead, experts say. The research is clear: Making extra small talk or raising your hand for networking opportunities can help introverts find more energy, better social connections and higher levels of happiness.
The shift towards introversion can be due to a variety of factors, such as increased wisdom and self-awareness, decreased energy for social interactions, and a greater appreciation for solitude and time alone. While some may view becoming more introverted as a negative thing, it can actually be a positive thing.
Yes, emotional trauma can cause a person to become a lot more introverted. Along with something as small as a loud noise more traumatic events can clearly change the way that someone acts.
Can you be introverted and have ADHD? Absolutely. People with ADHD have a diverse range of presentations and personality traits. This 2017 study of children with ADHD found that 58% of participants were introverted.
In 2011, research by psychologists Jennifer Grimes, Jonathan Cheek, and Julie Norem broke introversion into four main types: social introvert, thinking introvert, anxious introvert, and restrained introvert.
Introverts are loyal and devoted friends.
People are attracted to loyal and devoted people. While introverts may not always realize it, this is a trait most people find attractive in them. Their loyalty isn't just attractive to the recipients of that devotion, but to anyone who observes them.
Not all introverts are shy. In fact, some have excellent social skills. 1 However, after engaging in social activities, an introvert will be emotionally drained and need time alone to "recharge" their emotional batteries.
One of the biggest struggles for introverts is small talk. Since they are not like an extrovert who thrives on talking and meeting new people, they find it difficult to engage in quick exchanges about the weather or how someone's day is going.
If you're an introvert, you struggle with finding quiet time to gather your thoughts, particularly at brainstorming meetings. Find quiet places to think, and take breaks just for a change of scenery and a chance to gather your thoughts. Ask for agendas prior for meetings to help you prepare your key points.
Costa and McCrae's work has found that from about age 18 to 30, people tend to become more neurotic, more introverted, and less open to new experiences; they also tend to become more agreeable and more conscientious. After age 30, these same trends are seen, but the rate of change dips.
Introversion is a well-studied personality trait with 50% genetic causation.