Extraversion

Extraversion is "the act, state, or habit of being predominantly concerned with obtaining gratification from what is outside the self".[4] Extraverts tend to enjoy human interactions and to be enthusiastic, talkative, assertive, and gregarious. Extraverts are energized and thrive off of being around other people. They take pleasure in activities that involve large social gatherings, such as parties, community activities, public demonstrations, and business or political groups. They also tend to work well in groups.[5] An extraverted person is likely to enjoy time spent with people and find less reward in time spent alone. They tend to be energized when around other people, and they are more prone to boredom when they are by themselves.

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Introversion

Introversion is "the state of or tendency toward being wholly or predominantly concerned with and interested in one's own mental life".[4] Introverts are typically perceived as more reserved or reflective.[5] Some popular psychologists have characterized introverts as people whose energy tends to expand through reflection and dwindle during interaction.[6] This is similar to Jung's view, although he focused on mental energy rather than physical energy. Few modern conceptions make this distinction.

Introverts often take pleasure in solitary activities such as reading, writing, using computers, hiking and fishing. The archetypal artist, writer, sculptor, engineer, composer and inventor are all highly introverted. An introvert is likely to enjoy time spent alone and find less reward in time spent with large groups of people, though they may enjoy interactions with close friends. Trust is usually an issue of significance: a virtue of utmost importance to introverts is choosing a worthy companion. They prefer to concentrate on a single activity at a time and like to observe situations before they participate, especially observed in developing children and adolescents.[7] They are more analytical before speaking.[8] Introverts are easily overwhelmed by too much stimulation from social gatherings and engagement, introversion having even been defined by some in terms of a preference for a quiet, more minimally stimulating external environment.[9]

Mistaking introversion for shyness is a common error. Introverts prefer solitary to social activities, but do not necessarily fear social encounters like shy people do.[10]

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Susan Cain, the author of the book "Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking" argues that present Western culture misjudges the capabilities of introverted people, leading to unused talent and energy.[11] The author, a self-described introvert, points out how society is biased against the introvert. From childhood they are taught that to be sociable is to be happy. Introversion is now "somewhere between a disappointment and pathology".[12]

Cain says that introversion is not a "second-class" trait, with examples including the introverts J.K. Rowling, Isaac Newton, Albert Einstein, Gandhi, Dr. Seuss, Yeats, Steven Spielberg and Larry Page. Her book shows how both introverts and extraverts enrich society.[12]

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source: Wikipedia