Introverts vs. Extroverts: The Science Behind Brain Chemistry
There are a multitude of misconceptions surrounding the difference between introverts and extroverts, how they act and feel, and the ways in which their brains operate. Introverts tend to be quieter, more socially withdrawn, and draw more energy from time spent alone, while extroverts are energetic and outgoing, gathering their required stimulation from group company and social reinforcement. However, beneath the preconceived notions of each personality type, their underlying brain chemistry is not so very different.
From a scientific standpoint, every unique person operates within a spectrum of introversion and extroversion. It is not uncommon for introverts to exhibit confidence and charisma in a crowd of familiar faces; likewise, extroverts may be just as nervous before a public speech or performance as an introvert. Both personality types are fluid, and we exhibit characteristics of each on a daily basis – the forms of socializing and recharging that introverts and extroverts demonstrate just take place in a different way.
In a recent study by Randy Buckner, medical scanning revealed that compared to extroverts, introverts had larger and more developed gray matter in their prefrontal cortex – a region of the brain linked to abstract thinking, decision-making, and thought analysis. The prefrontal cortex is also responsible for taking in sensory data, predicting probable outcomes of events, and governing social control.
Other research suggested that introvert and extrovert characteristics were largely due to dopamine responses in the brain – dopamine being a neurotransmitter that controls the brain’s pleasure and reward centres. Extroverts exhibited a stronger response in the amygdala and the nucleus acumbens when receiving positive reinforcement from a gambling exercise, demonstrating that their processing of risk and reward operates differently from that of introverts.
However, the brain is an extraordinarily complex muscle, and much more research is needed before we understand the myriad influences which define our personality type. These differences affect our work and study process, and Homework Help USA’s services assist all personality types in finding the best ways to approach writing and research according to their own strengths and weaknesses. Having trouble expressing yourself in application letters? Need a unique approach for developing thesis statements and essay outlines? Homework Help USA has you covered. We take pride in improving academic success – get in touch with us today!
References:
The Differences Between the Brains of Introverts and Extroverts. (2014, August 21). Retrieved August 31 2015, from http://www.medicaldaily.com/brain-introvert-compared-extrovert-are-they-really-different-299064.
