Pandemics and personalities: Introverts may live longer | Life (2024)

The lockdowns and social regulations during the Covid-19 pandemic were paradise for introverts, and a pair of researchers believe that people with this personality trait also had a slight advantage over extroverts when it came to staying alive.

After looking at data on Americans, they investigated whether there was a scientifically verifiable link between personality types and mortality during the pandemic.

Ongoing research has suggested that extroverts are more likely to live longer. The reasons for this vary, with some studies noting that people who are outgoing and sociable experience a boost in mood and well-being, which can lead to a more fulfilling life.

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Pandemics and personalities: Introverts may live longer | Life (1)

Pandemics and personalities: Introverts may live longer | Life (2024)

FAQs

Do introverts have shorter life spans? ›

Health and the Extraversion–Introversion Relationship

According to Baylor University's Adam O'Riordan and colleagues (2023), it's quite the opposite, and there are actually a host of stress-busting benefits enjoyed by extraverts that could indeed lengthen rather than shorten their lives.

What kind of person should an introvert marry? ›

Be a Safe Person

Your introverted partner is more likely to open up and share their innermost thoughts when they not only feel that they will be listened to but also that you are a safe person to share personal details with.

Are introverts more prone to mental illness? ›

It's a common misconception that all introverts are shy and anxious: this isn't true. ALL personality types can be shy, anxious - or both. However, introverts are more likely to dwell in their own inner worlds and this means they are also more prone to experiencing mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression.

How do introverts live life? ›

Introverts, on the other hand, simply prefer not to spend lots of time interacting with other people. Introverts do appreciate being around people with whom they are close. They find engaging in "small talk" tedious, but do enjoy having deep, meaningful conversations. Introverts also tend to think before speaking.

Which personality type lives the longest? ›

Specifically, the major predictor of longevity, according to the study, is conscientiousness. This means planning, foresight, and caution are the most valued personality traits when it comes to leading a long life—All traits that C personality types are very familiar with.

Do introverts get tired of people? ›

Typically, social fatigue occurs when a person has socialized to the point of being unable to socialize anymore. It can happen to anyone (and to be clear, social fatigue was common before we'd ever heard of COVID-19). However, introverts are more likely to experience social exhaustion.

What is the kindest introvert personality type? ›

ISFJ. ISFJ's are quiet, conscientious, and kind. They are responsible in nature and are committed to meeting their obligations. They have a tendency to put the needs of others above their own.

What kind of girls do introvert guys like? ›

Which type of girl is suitable for an introvert guy? For an introverted guy it is not necessary that he should get an introverted girl, but one who should understand him and his nature and should support him rather than misconcepting him like others.

What kind of partner suits an introvert? ›

Some introverts prefer other introverts for intimate partners: They like the coziness of shutting out the world together. Some introverts prefer extroverts, for their energy and the luxury of having a personal social director. These introverts enjoy engaging with the world, but don't want to work too hard at it.

Are introverts more prone to dementia? ›

The researchers concluded that people with low neuroticism and high extroversion have the lowest risk of dementia.

What is the biggest problem with introverts? ›

Individuals with an introverted personality type are also often known to be perfectionists and very self-critical. Such characteristics can leave individuals feeling unsatisfied with themselves and with their lives. It can also lead to stress, mental and physical exhaustion, as well as mental health issues.

Are highly intelligent people introverts? ›

In fact, many highly intelligent people are actually introverts. They might not be the loudest voices in the room, but their minds are constantly buzzing with brilliant ideas and insights. Psychology offers some tell-tale signs to spot these highly intelligent introverts among us.

Are introverts born or made? ›

The degree to which you are introverted or extroverted is influenced by your genes. Of all the personality traits studied, introversion/ extraversion is one of the most heritable. Yet there are also many environmental factors that influence this, such as how you were raised.

Do introverts love themselves? ›

Lucky for introverts, one of our strengths is that we are good at making ourselves happy — if we take the time to! We don't depend on other people to bring us joy; we are able find joy within ourselves and in the little things around us. Here are some ways introverts can work to love themselves more.

Is life difficult for introverts? ›

Being an introvert is not difficult but sometimes it becomes challenging. Here are a few things every introvert (like me) would totally relate to: Social gatherings give you nightmares. You'd rather laze around in your comfy bed and binge-watch your fav T.V.

Is being an introvert healthy? ›

Being an Introvert Is Normal, and You Shouldn't Hide It

Society perpetuates extroverts as the ideal personality type, which is why we introverts often feel like misfits. But think about it: the world needs listeners/introverts as much as it needs speakers/extroverts.

Does personality affect longevity? ›

Recently, various studies have indicated that people's personality profiles in midlife can predict whether or not they are likely to enjoy long lives. However, personality traits change and adapt throughout a person's life, and this may happen due to various factors that, in themselves, relate to mortality risk.

Do introverts do well in life? ›

While it's been found out that introverts are generally good at addressing large crowds, the reason being they come out better prepared and well researched about the subjects, also they talk about what they like so it's less likely they will do something half-heartedly.

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