Introversion In Society:The Personality Problem
Background:
*What is does being ‘introverted’ really mean?
*What are some common misconceptions?
Intriguing Queries
Do you tend to process things internally or externally?
Would you rather do a group project or work independently?
Do you feel your best (most “re-charged”) while at a big party with friends or sitting at home with a good book?
IntroversionCommon Misconceptions:-Introverts are NOT shy-Introverts are NOT socially inadequate
Introverts are those who:
Feel their best or “re-charged” when in solitude or within a tiny close knit group of people
Process things internally; thinking heavily about what they say before they speak
Prefer more profound connections with people rather than many superficial connections (ie; Social networking)
What is wrong with being Introverted?
Knowing this; it begs the question…..
However, as clearly displayed in Susan Cain’s novel, Quiet; Introverts are not only being diminished in society but Extroverted qualities are becoming emphasized in nearly all aspects of our daily lives.
Emphasizing ExtroversionThe “Willy Loman” Complex
Kanye speaking his mind at the MTV Video Music Awards
Miley being her usual self
“Pods” in a classroom
Open-layout Work place
Diminishing Introverts:
While there are various ways in which we emphasize our value on extroverted qualities; there are distinct ways in which society directly diminishes introverts
1) Introverts get verbally trampled in group think environments.
One study found that a group will tend to follow the person who speaks the most in the group when trying to solve a problem, not necessarily based on the credibility of the suggestion or solution.
Until recently, the APA considered introversion to be a mental disorder
and was even in the DSM-5.
2) Being classified as an introvert was considered to be “bad”
Positive Qualities of Introverts
With these arguments in favor of societal equality for introverts; it begs the question “What can Introverts do to help society? What benefits do they bring to the table?”
1) Introverts are not generally risk takers
*They heavily weigh and analyze probable solutions thoroughly (therefore there is less probability of them making a rash or illogical decision.)
Introverts are also very conscious of the fact that every decision has its consequences, which is why they choose not to take risks that have a large chance at back firing.
In fact, many introverts in leadership positions are CEO’s of companies
(ie; Steve Job of Apple Co.)
2) Introverts are moreover listeners rather than speakers
This is beneficial in leadership positions;*take all employee feedback and opinions * They tend to not act impulsively.*They listen carefully *Formulate well-thought-out responses
Famous and Highly Regarded Introverts:
“[Introverts,] the world needs you and it needs the things you carry. So I wish you the best of all possible journeys and the courage to speak softly.”
-Susan CainAuthor of Quiet
