Introversion vs. Extroversion

Before I begin my analysis of how we can rethink treatment, I believe some background information is in order. I will begin with the definitions of introversion vs. extroversion. Later I will describe how the program I work in is set up as well as how I believe it leaves introverted children behind. There are, of course, aspects which the introverted child can gain more from than the extroverted child, but overall the model is biased toward extroversion.

From http://www.beinganintrovert.com/ By the way, I do recommend reading the author's book, The Introvert Advantage for a more thorough understanding of the topic.

What is Introversion?

Dr. Carl Jung described introversion and extroversion as two in-born ways that people gain and lose personal energy. He understood that introversion and extroversion are on a continuum. At one end are introverts. They feel depleted by too much external stimulation and are energized by internal sources (ideas, impressions, thoughts). Extroverts, at the other end of the continuum, are energized by external sources (activities, socializing, things) and lose energy during down time. Some people use both sides of the continuum almost equally. We all possess both ways of increasing and decreasing energy but most of us inherently require more introverting or extroverting to accumulate our energy resources.

Shyness is often confused with introversion but it is social anxiety and either introverts or extroverts can be shy.

To provide an example, I have two clients who come to mind for each. One is pretty far down on the scale toward introversion. This client would stay in his room for as long as we would let him, reading and listening to music. He interacted fairly well with others, was not shy or passive, and seemed to enjoy the time he spent with others. When he got enough of social interaction, he would retreat to his room for a while.

On the opposite end, another client is always going. He is always in the thick of the action. Quiet time is excruciating for him. After spending too much time alone, he will be cranky and drained. As soon as he is out where the action is, he is cheerful.

In contrast to these, a third client comes to mind. He is, in my estimation, fairly introverted. However, he tries to operate as an extrovert. This leads to more agitation. This client will try to be in the thick of the action, but he visually becomes more agitated as he spends more time in the thick of it. He needs to be encouraged to spend time to himself. The most striking thing is that, magically, after spending some time alone in quiet time or even just taking his shower, he comes back visibly recharged.

I'm more concerned with the third client as the others are comfortable with and functioning well within their dominant temperament.

Next I will give you a picture of the program and how it affects the different temperaments.