Extroverts make up about three-quarters of the American population, and as such come in all stripes. They zip through the world in search of new experiences, social connections, and exciting opportunities. Extroversion is a core factor of personality and is difficult to modify. But generally speaking, the only people bothered by extroverts' volubility and drive are the introverted members of their circle!
What Exactly Is an Extrovert?
Extroverts are often described as talkative, sociable, action-oriented, enthusiastic, friendly, and out-going. On the negative side, they are sometimes described as attention-seeking, easily distracted, and unable to spend time alone. Some of the general characteristics associated with extroversion include:
- Numerous, broad interests
- Like to communicate by talking
- Enjoy being at the center of attention
- Tend to act first before thinking
- Enjoy group work
- Feel isolated by too much time spent alone
- Look to others and outside sources for ideas and inspiration
- Like to talk about thoughts and feelings
Qualities of an Extrovert
Extroverts enjoy social situations and even seek them out since they enjoy being around people. In school, you can expect an extroverted child to enjoy working on a team project or in a study group rather than alone.
Extroverts tend to "fade" when alone and can easily become bored without other people around. When they must work on a task alone, it can be helpful for somebody to be nearby to encourage them and to let them speak about what they are doing.
When given a chance, an extrovert will talk with someone else rather than sit alone. In fact, extroverts tend to think as they speak, unlike introverts who are far more likely to think before they speak. Extroverts often think well when they are talking. Concepts just don't seem real to them unless they can talk about them. You may discover that your child will talk to anybody and everybody when you are out in public.
An extroverted child would prefer to play with other children than playing alone. They are more likely to enjoy team sports and club activities. Extroverts may spend more time on social media and have more friends and followers than introverts, keeping up communication with others even at a distance.
While your child may show extroverted behavior in some situations, studies show that how a person reacts to a specific situation is less predictable. The immediate pressure of the situation can overcome general tendencies. You may think your child will love to go to a party, but discover she doesn't want to go due to the specific situation. The degree of extroverted behavior varies more within a person than between people, so you can expect that your child will be strongly social in some circumstances and less in other situations.
Remember that extroversion isn't a bad trait; it's actually a continuum and some people might be very extroverted while others are less so. Extroversion is more common than introversion and is often valued since extroverts tend to be skilled at interacting with others. This does not mean, however, that one personality type is 'better' than another. Each type has its own pluses and minuses, and you may even find that you are extroverted in some situations and more introverted in others.
