Kristie Overstreet Ph.D., LPCC, LMHC, LPC, CST
Introvert vs Extrovert: What’s the Difference?
Do you feel drained from being around others or do you feel recharged? Are you a natural introvert or extrovert? Your personality, desire to be connected to others, and how you recharge may greatly affect how you use social media. Everyone’s use of social media is different - here’s how introverts and extroverts differ in their use of social media.
Introverts on Social Media
If you often avoid being around people and find that social situations drain you, then you may see yourself as an introvert. This doesn’t mean that you don’t like people, but you find being around people as exhausting. Introverts typically recharge their batteries by spending time alone or engaging in activities by themselves. Just the thought of having to lead a workshop or go to a dinner party can cause dread.
For many introverts, this is directly correlated with their social media use. They may minimally post or share information about their personal lives. If this sounds like you, then there isn’t a surprise that you avoid the interaction on social media. You may think about sharing something then decide not to because you don’t want to air your personal business. Don’t feel guilty about not posting enough or that you ‘should’ be sharing more. Listen to your gut and let it guide you.
Extroverts on Social Media
If you are a social butterfly and have a chronic case of FOMO (fear of missing out), then it is likely that you are an extrovert. You may not be out in social situations all of the time, but you do like to have people around. You also may be avoiding loneliness. This doesn’t mean that you don’t enjoy time by yourself, but you prefer being around someone and not alone. Your social calendar remains full, and if you are faced with downtime you are trying to fill it with another event. Many extroverts recharge their energy by being around others. Social events help extroverts recharge their batteries.
The same is true for social media use for many extroverts. They are the ones posting often, commenting on other posts, and sharing updates. As an extrovert, you may not understand why an introvert doesn’t share more on social media and vice versa. You may view social media as a necessity that allows you to stay updated on everything happening around you.
Even though introverts and extroverts are different, they are similar in wanting to be involved with social media in some way. Whether it’s staying connected to friends you grew up with or being in touch with family, social media has many benefits to both personality types.
