It often feels like everyone must belong to one of two groups: extroverts or introverts. The extroverts are brash, outgoing and impulsive; while the introverts are introspective, quiet and reserved.
But some people don’t fit into just one of these categories. One night, happy hour seems like the best idea; while the next, cuddling up with a book feels just right. What does this mean?
Can someone be both an extrovert and introvert? Yes. They’re ambiverts and they’re everywhere.
“Ambiverts make up 68 percent of the population,” said Barry Smith, professor emeritus and director of the Laboratories of Human Psychophysiology at the University of Maryland.
“This whole distribution of introversion/extroversion is strongly influenced by genetics … ambiverts inherit a tendency to be ambiverts.”
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Balance exists as the defining characteristic of ambiverts.
“Ambiverts are kind of in the middle of the road,” said Bernardo J. Carducci, director of the Shyness Research Institute, Indiana University Southeast. Ambiversion is “a combination of both” introversion and extroversion.
While experts have known about the concept of ambiversion since Carl Jung defined extroversion and introversion, little research has been conducted on ambiverts. Still, experts know there are a few characteristics that define ambiversion.
Ambiverts adapt
At a party, an ambivert engages in boisterous conversation, fluttering from person to person all night, much like the extroverts at the gathering. But that same ambivert also enjoys dinner and a movie alone. Ambiverts act like extroverts in social situations and introverts when alone.
“Ambiverts are more strongly influenced by situational factors,” Smith said. “I think the big advantage here is that this person is comfortable in a much wider range of situations.”
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Ambiverts know when to be outgoing, such as at the work happy hour; and when to be reflective, such as during an important meeting. They don’t feel drained by either situation.
“When we think about ambiverts, it shows a greater degree of flexibility,” said Carducci “If they are in a social situation, they are going to respond to it.”
That doesn’t mean ambiverts will love every social situation and all alone time. One expert urges ambiverts to understand what mix of introvert and extrovert they are and pursue what they enjoy.
“If you find that a certain type of situation consistently leaves you in a bad mood, stop banging your head against the wall. Change the situation or find an approach that works better. Customize your definition of yourself,” said Laurie Helgoe, chair of the social science division at Davis & Elkins College.
Ambiverts don’t play it too safe or take too many risks
Extroverts often take risks: They might be the first to jump on a plane to Las Vegas for the weekend just because. Introverts would behave in a more reserved way, weighing the pros and cons of the impromptu trip. Ambiverts would sometimes agree to go and sometimes pass.
“Extroverts tend to be much more impulsive than introverts. The ambivert is in the middle,” Smith said. “Sometimes, she is going to be impulsive and run off to the party when she should study for exams; and sometimes she is going to make the other choice.”
Ambiverts know when to be quiet and when to gab
Ambiverts know when to talk and when to listen. One of the few studies on ambiverts — by Adam Grant of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania — found ambiverts make the best sales people. Why? Because they understand when to make the pitch and when to pause.
This makes a lot of sense, said Helgoe, because sometimes sales people sell to both extroverts and introverts, who require different approaches.
“[Ambiverts] can have a bigger repertoire of responses and be more flexible in situations,” she said.
While ambiverts exude balance, there can be a disadvantage to not being purely extroverted or introverted, Helgoe said. Extroverts feel energized by social interactions, while introverts feel energized by alone time. Ambiverts feel unclear about what drives them and could make the wrong choice because they’re not always sure what they want.
“If you are not real clear on your preferences, you might not have a ready response,” she said.
Still, Carducci warned against forcing ambiverts to be introverted or extroverts.
“You’re not a better or a worse individual. You are just a different kind of individual. We need all kinds of people,” he said. “We are going to push people to think about sense of identity a little differently. [Ambiversion is] this combination and blending.”
As an enthusiast and expert in psychology, particularly in personality traits and behaviors, I can provide valuable insights into the concept of ambiversion discussed in the article. My understanding is rooted in extensive research and practical knowledge in the field.
The article explores the idea that individuals often categorize themselves as either extroverts or introverts, but there exists a significant population known as ambiverts who display a blend of both personality traits. This concept has been acknowledged since Carl Jung's definition of extroversion and introversion, yet limited research has been conducted on ambiverts.
Ambiverts, constituting 68 percent of the population, exhibit a balance between extroversion and introversion. This equilibrium is influenced by genetic factors, indicating that ambiverts inherit a tendency to be comfortable in a wide range of social situations.
Key characteristics of ambiverts include their adaptability to different scenarios. They can engage in lively conversations at social events, resembling extroverts, yet also find enjoyment in solitary activities like dinner and a movie. Ambiverts excel at recognizing situational factors, knowing when to be outgoing or reflective. This flexibility allows them to navigate diverse social settings without feeling drained.
Furthermore, ambiverts demonstrate a nuanced approach to risk-taking. Unlike extroverts, who may impulsively embrace opportunities, and introverts, who tend to be more cautious, ambiverts strike a balance. They may choose to take risks on some occasions and exercise restraint on others, showcasing a middle-ground approach.
A notable study by Adam Grant suggests that ambiverts make excellent salespeople due to their ability to understand when to communicate and when to listen. This versatility allows them to cater to both extroverted and introverted individuals, making them effective communicators.
However, ambiverts may face challenges in understanding their preferences, leading to potential confusion about their motivations. Unlike extroverts who thrive on social interactions and introverts who recharge through solitude, ambiverts may struggle to identify their sources of energy.
In conclusion, while ambiversion presents a unique blending of extroverted and introverted traits, it's essential for individuals to recognize and embrace their distinct identity. Ambiverts contribute diversity to the spectrum of personalities, and understanding their characteristics can lead to a more inclusive appreciation of human nature.
