Facts and Myths About Introversion: What Does the Science Say?

As an evidence-based coach, I often get asked what it really means to be introverted. Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions and myths that not only cause confusion but can also be harmful. Are introverts always shy? And can personality really be captured in a single color? Fact: Introversion Is Partially Rooted in Your Brain Neuroscience has shown that introversion is not just a choice or a temporary mood but an inherent characteristic of your brain. Research indicates that introverts respond more strongly to dopamine, the chemical released during rewards and social stimulation. This means they feel overstimulated more quickly in social situations. Moreover, their prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain responsible for planning and thinking—is often more active. This explains why introverts take more time to reflect and respond. These insights trace back to groundbreaking research from Hans Eysenck in the 1960s, who suggested that introversion and extraversion stem from differences in central nervous system sensitivity. Myth: Introverts Are Always Shy Shyness and introversion are often confused, but they are two different things. Shyness is a fear of social rejection, whereas introversion simply means that someone gains energy from calm, less stimulating environments. An introvert can be perfectly confident and enjoy social interactions as long as they aren’t too frequent or overwhelming. Interestingly, shyness has more to do with self-confidence than with personality. It is something people can overcome through gradual exposure to social situations and building self-assurance. Introversion, on the other hand, is a core aspect of who someone is and doesn’t fundamentally change, though introverts can certainly develop strong social skills. Fact: Introverts Excel at Deep Connections Since introverts often prefer smaller, meaningful interactions, they are particularly skilled at building deep relationships. This stems from their natural tendency to listen and observe before speaking. As a result, others often feel heard and understood. This quality makes them ideal friends, partners, and colleagues, especially in situations requiring empathy and understanding. Introverts take the time to truly understand the core of who someone is. Instead of superficial conversations, they seek discussions that matter—about dreams, values, and beliefs. This creates a sense of safety and trust for the people around them. Susan Cain, author of the book Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, highlights that this strength of introverts is often underestimated in a world focused on extraversion. She describes how introverts, with their ability to listen, not only form deeper connections but also help others feel heard and understood. In team settings, introverts often serve as the bridge builders who prevent or resolve conflicts through empathy and understanding. Myth: Your Personality Has a Color Many popular color theories try to categorize personalities, such as “blue” for introverts and “red” for extraverts. While these theories may seem appealing, they are often pseudoscientific and lack a solid research foundation. These theories originated from Carl Gustav Jung’s work, whose psychological types served as the basis for later models like the DISC profile and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). Jung proposed that people have preferences in how they gain energy (introversion or extraversion) and how they perceive and judge the world. Although his work was valuable, later interpretations like color systems are often oversimplified and commercially exploited, losing much of the nuance. Scientifically, they are far from valid and reliable. Want to Learn More? Would you like to know how to embrace and leverage your introversion? In my coaching programs, the power of introversion takes center stage. Feel free to contact me for a no-obligation conversation!