Introversion
- Attention and energy directed inwards
- They tend to observe, react and reflect rather than act quickly
- Often described as quiet, reserved, and calm
- Prefer quiet environment
- Increased brain activity in the frontal lobe and anterior thalamus (relevant to memory, problem solving, and planning – focus on internal information)
Possible Challenges
- Need time alone (or with close friends) on a regular basis to recharge their batteries
- Prefer fewer contacts / friendships / activities
- Less action orientation
- Greater impulse control – less spontaneity
Extraversion
- Attention and energy directed outwards
- Tend to react and act quickly rather than pondering.
- Often described as outgoing, enthusiastic, assertive, active
- Prefer a stimulating environment
- Greater brain activity in the temporal lobe, posterior cingulate gyrus and posterior thalamus (greater engagement with sensory processes/more focus on external information)
Possible Challenges
- Need outside stimulation and time with other people to recharge their batteries
- Like lots of contacts and variety
- Less planning and reflection orientation
- Less impulse control – more spontaneity
Extraversion
- Attention and energy directed outwards
- Tend to react and act quickly rather than pondering.
- Often described as outgoing, enthusiastic, assertive, active
- Prefer a stimulating environment
- Greater brain activity in the temporal lobe, posterior cingulate gyrus and posterior thalamus (greater engagement with sensory processes/more focus on external information)
Possible Challenges
- Need outside stimulation and time with other people to recharge their batteries
- Like lots of contacts and variety
- Less planning and reflection orientation
- Less impulse control – more spontaneity
