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Introverts are often invisible in our society. They are the quiet ones. As children, they don't talk much. When they
do, people are surprised that they are there and know so much. They don't like parties or group activities. This is very difficult
during the teen years. As adults, they are doing their jobs without much recognition.
Our society tends to praise
the extroverts and view their qualities as superior to those of the introvert. We generally like people who speak up, take
visible risks, are sociable, and praise themselves.
Of course, there is a continuum from introverted to extroverted. About 20-30% of the population is on the introverted
side of the continuum. If you are in that group or have children in that group, know that it is normal. Don't try to alter
this tendency just to fit in with the current dominant tendency of our society.
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Introverts have wonderful gifts. They watch and observe, learning much in this fashion. They form close and lifelong
friends, not many but very solid. They are sensitive to art, literature, and music. They are also very in tune with emotions.
They search deep into their souls for answers about life's mysteries. They are explorers of the inner horizons.
When these qualities are not respected by others or themselves, introversion can lead to anxiety, poor-self-worth, and
shyness. When respected, introverts are comfortable in who they are and can hold their own in this exroverted world. Several
psychologists are bringing introverts out of the closet. Elaine Aron Ph.D. writes about the Highly Sensitive Person and focuses
on the biological differences and the need for less stimulation. Marti Olsen Laney Psy.D. discusses the benefits of being
introverted and how to take care of oneself.
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