What Is Extraversion
There are two, similar, but competing definitions of Extraversion: one as a behavioral trait and one as a cognitive type. The most common idea of extraverts defines them as social butterflies who thrive on being around others.
This definition stems from extraversion as a Primary Trait of personality, which translates how we behaviorally engage with the outside world. Do we like to stay busy? Do we assert our needs? Do we enjoy crowds? Everyone exists on a spectrum here. No one is either entirely extroverted or introverted.
The second definition of extraversion is rooted in our cognitive functions: how we process our lived experience and make decisions. For instance, Introverts will weigh their inner feelings and thoughts before considering outward consequences. Aka, they evaluate their experiences through the lens of self. Extraverts, on the hand, are more likely to derive their feelings and thoughts from their outward environment. Aka, they evaluate experiences through the lens of the tribe.
In some cases, someone can score high in one and low in the other, such as having the primary trait of an introvert and the cognitive type of an extravert. They can’t stand being alone and will spend their time in a group to stay energized, but are cognitively centered inwards: thinking through their experiences and potentially appearing shy. Both forms of extraversion share similar dispositions, but are ultimately different in how they manifest themselves in each individual.
The traits Extraversion and Introversion has been around a long time in Psychology. It was originally coined by Carl Jung. However, it was the work of Gerard Haymans which identified Extraversion as a dimension rather than a type. He described as a single continuum, meaning that you can’t be an extravert or an introvert at the same level, at the same time. If you’re high in one, you will automatically be low in the other. We all have both of these traits. Sometimes, we are in the mood to party. But sometimes, we also prefer some quiet time. What you prefer doing more often helps you identify which personality dimension is stronger in you.
Both extraverts and introverts get benefits from social interaction. However, the extraverts get more satisfaction and the pleasant feelings will push them to do it more frequently. The key is in what a person finds more emotionally satisfying. Extraverts are drawn to the rewards of emotional bonding, affection, approval and warmth of a crowd. If they find themselves in an unrewarding social situation, they will avoid it too. If the right rewards factors are not present, they will not be as interested.
