Why Introverts Don't Seem Well-Adjusted

Posted by Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen Feb 13, 2007

Why do introverts get the short end of the personality stick? Because extroverts are the ones who are out there, basking in the center of attention and enjoying the party.

Extroverts are at home anywhere, and are happiest when there's lots of people around. They seem more well-adjusted and happier. Extroverts seem to have more friends and more self-confidence. They seem more successful and adventurous.

But things aren't always what they seem -- people aren't always what they seem! I'm an introvert, and I didn't know it was a legitimate personality style until I was in my early 20's. I thought I was just messed up because I love being alone, reading and thinking and writing and daydreaming. I'd rather be at home than anywhere else, and I'm rarely lonely or bored.

Introverts just seem weirder than extroverts. They're harder to get to know, and can be harder to make conversation with (though that's not true in my case - I talk easily to most strangers and friends). Introverts seem to have a bad time at parties and in crowds, because they really aren't comfortable in groups of people. They like to watch and listen and reflect, which makes them seem strange. Unless they're famous or brilliant - then it's "normal" for them to display their introverted characteristics.

What about you: are you introverted? Here is a description of introverted personality traits.