What Is an Introvert? Personality, Characteristics, and More

Your particular flavor of introversion might blend any of these four elements.

In a 2011 study , researchers outlined four domains of introversion that align with the characteristics people often link to this personality trait:

Most commonly acknowledged signs of introversion don’t come from the actual definition of introversion — which is, basically, a lack of extroversion.

Since introversion lies on the other end of the spectrum, it tends to have the opposite characteristics. Introverts generally:

Extroversion is one of the Big Five personality traits . People with higher levels of extroversion tend to:

Introversion itself isn’t a measurable personality trait, as such. Rather, introversion refers to low levels of extroversion (originally referred to as extraversion; a person with extraversion traits was referred to as an extravert).

But what if you’re the one who prefers a quiet night at home to a crowded party? Maybe you feel exhausted and drained after interacting with anyone other than a close friend or two. If so, you might have started to wonder whether you’re an introvert yourself.

When someone asks you to describe an introvert, your thoughts might go to the most reserved and thoughtful person you know. Maybe you think of the friend who mostly avoids special attention and social engagements, or the sibling who prefers to occupy a quiet corner with a book or the family dog.

Being introverted has to do with how you gather energy. You might be introverted if you’re energized by solo time and feel drained after prolonged social interactions. This isn’t necessarily the same as shyness.

A number of factors help shape the unique characteristics that make you who you are, and these factors can also affect the ways introversion shows up in your personality. To put it another way, no two introverts are exactly alike.

That said, you might recognize introversion in yourself by some of the following traits and behaviors.

You need plenty of time for yourself

Do you consider periods of solitude essential for optimal health and well-being? Maybe you find the thought of a quiet night at home positively delightful, whether you plan to spend that time simply resting or enjoying a quiet hobby on your own.

If time alone prompts feelings of peace and relief, not disappointment and stress, you’re likely more introverted than extroverted.

Too much socializing drains you

It’s not true that introverts hate social interaction and avoid it entirely. All the same, you might find yourself needing more time to recharge between events than a more extroverted person.

Hanging out with friends on Friday might max out your energy, leaving you craving solitude on Saturday to rest and refuel.

You have a hard time with conflict

Everyday interactions can be draining enough on their own, but what about situations that involve the possibility of conflict?

Some evidence suggests introverted people tend to have a greater sensitivity to negative evaluation and criticism. You might find it tough to share your thoughts when you believe others might disagree with you or disapprove of your opinion. As a result, you might find yourself avoiding conflict whenever possible.

You work better on your own

The mere words “group project” might spark fear in anyone’s heart, but if you find working in groups particularly loathsome, you could certainly be more of an introvert.

Working at your own pace gives you time to reflect and consider your approach before focusing your energy on the task, without having to navigate group dynamics or tune out the chatter.

Of course, this doesn’t necessarily mean you have trouble getting along with others. You may just find it easier to concentrate when working alone. That goes for your hobbies, too — introverted people often choose solitary pastimes, like reading, crafting, gaming, or gardening.

The spotlight doesn’t tempt you

Maybe you don’t mind working in smaller groups, but you always choose behind-the-scenes roles.

That might mean you’d rather do the research and write up the report than present it, or you volunteer for tasks that keep you away from the crowd. Far from being the center of attention, you’d rather hover on the fringes where you escape notice.

You prefer a close circle of friends

Many introverts have just a small circle of friends, but it’s not because they can’t make friends or dislike people. Research suggests, in fact, that high-quality relationships play a major role in happiness for introverts.

If you’re an introvert, you might simply prefer to have a few close, intimate friendships rather than a large circle of casual acquaintances. After all, you need more time to yourself than an extroverted person might, so you probably have less time to spend connecting and catching up with a crowd.

You get to know people on a deeper level

If you tend to keep to yourself, you might find it perfectly natural to listen and observe from the sidelines. Watching what goes on around you can give you more insight into others and offer clues to their personality and preferences.

Expressing yourself not your strong point? You might become a good listener instead, perhaps even develop a knack for picking up on body language and less obvious cues and emotions in someone’s words, behavior, or tone of voice.

The end result? You learn more about others, which can boost empathy and your ability to offer emotional support.

You spend a lot of time absorbed in your own thoughts

Maybe you:

• find yourself daydreaming or running through scenarios in your mind before you settle on a plan of action
• need more time to process information and weigh options carefully when making decisions
• do extensive research before making a big purchase or accepting a job offer
• brainstorm a plan of action ahead of major events to prepare for every possibility

Introverts often have an active inner thought process, so these traits can all suggest introversion.

You zone out to get away

Do you catch yourself “escaping” from unpleasant or stressful situations by letting your mind wander or drift to something more relaxing?

Anyone can zone out, but turning inward may offer introverts a way to leave situations that feel chaotic or uncomfortable. In short, it can serve as a survival mechanism, of sorts.

This tendency to get lost in your thoughts may leave others with the impression that you’re shy, distracted, or disinterested. In reality, though, it can help you cope in tense or overwhelming environments, from a loud holiday party to a long meeting with several short-tempered colleagues.

You prefer writing over talking

Maybe the thought of small talk makes you shudder, but writing out your thoughts comes naturally, especially when you’re dealing with complex or difficult emotions.

Many introverts take time to think carefully before speaking, so you might have a hard time offering a quick opinion about anything. Writing, on the other hand, allows you to consider your position thoroughly and choose just the right words to express yourself with confidence and care.

You feel emotions deeply

Some evidence suggests introverted people might experience emotions more intensely and have trouble managing those emotions. This greater sensitivity could help explain why many introverts develop depression.

Learn more about the complex link between introversion and depression.

A heightened sensitivity to emotions and other stimuli can factor into your preference for spending your time with loved ones who recognize and understand your need for space and solitude. You want to share your energy with people you can trust not to overwhelm you, in other words.