Communication for Introverts, Extroverts in Love
Resolving Relationship Conflict Between Different Personality Types
Sep 23, 2007
Two major personality types are extroverts and introverts, which are opposite ends of the spectrum of personality traits. Extroverts and introverts are often attracted to one another – because opposites attract – but may find it difficult to build a strong relationship or marriage because of communication differences.
Though relationship conflict is inevitable, resolving conflict and improving communication is easier when you understand introvert and extrovert personality types. You might consider a personality test to determine if you're an introvert or an extrovert (online personality tests are usually easy and accurate). Or, you may just need to scan through these personality traits of introverts and extroverts to see your own personality profile.
Introverted Personality Traits
Introverts are usually energized by being alone, private, and quiet. Introverts are more sensitive to social rejection, and don't always see the world as a safe place.
Emotionally stable introverts are:
- Passive
- Careful
- Thoughtful
- Controlled
- Reliable
- Even-tempered
- Calm
Emotionally unstable introverts can be:
- Quiet
- Pessimistic
- Unsociable
- Sober
- Rigid
- Moody
- Anxious
- Reserved
Extroverted Personality Traits
Extroverts tend to be energized by groups of people, conversation, and activity. Extroverts are less sensitive to rejection, and see the world as a safer place.
Emotionally stable extroverts are:
- Sociable
- Outgoing
- Talkative
- Responsive
- Easygoing
- Lively
- Carefree
- Leaderlike
Emotionally unstable extroverts can be:
- Active
- Optimistic
- Impulsive
- Changeable
- Excitable
- Aggressive
- Restless
- Touchy
(Source: Perspectives on Personality by Carver Scheier.)
Resolving Relationship Conflict Between Introverts and Extroverts in Love
Understanding your partner's personality traits is the key to resolving relationship conflict. The introvert needs to understand his extroverted partner's need for social activity; the extrovert needs to understand her introverted partner's need for privacy and downtime.
Finding compromise when opposites attract or when you're in the midst of different personality traits is also important. The introvert could go to the social event with the extrovert; the extrovert could agree to leave at an earlier time. The introvert could suggest comfortable solutions to situations the extrovert enjoys, such as smaller, more intimate dinner parties instead of huge events.
Accepting your differences is crucial. It's one thing to understand the personality profiles of introverts and extroverts; it's totally different to actually accept and even admire different personality traits. Acceptance means the introvert doesn't try to change the extrovert and vice versa. Acceptance means the extrovert really sees the value of the introvert's personality profile – and vice versa.
Personality testing isn't necessary when it comes to discovering introverted or extroverted personality traits. People generally have an idea of their own traits; the trick is for extroverts and introverts to find harmonious ways to live and love together.
If you found Communication for Introverts, Extroverts in Love helpful, you might find Resources for Extroverts and Introverts helpful.
