As we age, it is common for individuals to become more introverted. 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.
In a post on Quiet Revolution, Cain confirms what you've probably suspected all along—we act more “introverted” as we age. Psychologists call this phenomenon “intrinsic maturation,” and it means our personalities become more balanced as we get older—“a kind of fine wine that mellows with age,” writes Cain.
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.
Traumatic or impactful events can change you. Yes, it's true, many types of emotional trauma can cause a person to become more introverted. Even something as small as loud noise can change the way that someone acts.
There's not just one way to be an introvert, Cheek now argues — rather, there are four shades of introversion: social, thinking, anxious, and restrained. And many introverts are a mix of all four types, rather than demonstrating one type over the others.
Extreme introverts are far quieter than typical introverts. People often mistake the trait for shyness. Their quiet demeanor is usually motivated by the need to carefully take in and process what others are saying and doing around them.
Perhaps the toughest part of being an introvert is not so much talking about yourself, but rather wishing you were better at talking about yourself.
Causes of Introversion
Researchers have found that introverts have a higher blood flow to their frontal lobe than extroverts do. This part of the brain helps you remember things, solve problems, and plan ahead. Introvert brains also react differently to dopamine than extrovert brains do.
In a post on Quiet Revolution, Cain confirms what you've probably suspected all along—we act more “introverted” as we age. Psychologists call this phenomenon “intrinsic maturation,” and it means our personalities become more balanced as we get older—“a kind of fine wine that mellows with age,” writes Cain.
Introverts might shut down if they are inundated with too much stimulation without a break to recharge. Oftentimes, social situations such as parties are too much for introverts, who need their own space more often than extroverts. As such, introverts tend to shut down when they are overwhelmed. What is this?
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.
Being an introvert just means that you prefer socializing differently than extroverts. Typical introverts like to spend social time with small groups rather than large ones, which may feel overwhelming and draining to them. They also tend to want to discuss “real” issues rather than making small talk.
Introversion is a well-studied personality trait with 50% genetic causation.
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.”
They are self-reliant.
Introverts are self-sufficient, and it's why they're so quiet. A quiet person's personality is inward, which means they naturally search themselves for comfort. Since they keep a small circle, they develop the habit of self-reliance by finding ways to cater to their needs.
On average, introverts and extroverts are the same in terms of intelligence. But statistics show that around 70% of gifted people are introverts. People are considered “gifted” when they exhibit above-average intelligence or a superior talent for something, such as music, art or math.
Introverts are looked down upon for lack of good 'communication skills'. Right from an early age, introverts have to compete very hard with peers, who seem to have no problem in public or interpersonal speaking. What seems to be effortless for peers is actually the most difficult task for an introverted child.
Do Introverts Sleep More? In short, no. While introverts may need more rest or time to recover following social events, they don't need any more sleep than the average adult does. Whether you are an introvert or an extrovert, you will always need between 7 and 9 hours of good quality sleep nightly to be at your best.
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.
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. Once an introvert, always an introvert. In fact, research shows that most people get more introverted as they get older.
What is introversion? Introversion is a personality trait, not a mental health condition. Introverts get their energy from within, meaning they need a lot of alone time to recharge.
ISFJ. ISFJ's are quiet, conscientious, and kind. They are responsible in nature and are committed to meeting their obligations. They have a tendency to put the needs of others above their own.
Introverts are easily distracted by external stimuli and while they might be too nice to say anything, get very frustrated with constant interruptions when they are trying to concentrate.
INTPs and INTJs are typically seen as the most introverted types. They both enjoy reflecting on their own thoughts and ideas. It's important for them to have time and space away from others in order to truly engage with their inner world.