You’re probably familiar with the terms introvert and extrovert, and you may have heard all the benefits of being one or the other. It would be too easy to say that there are only two types of personality and that’s it. That’s why there are so many personality tests: Myers Brigg, the colour types, and many more.
While most have foundations as to how the types are built up, they’re also continuously under discussion. One of these debated models for introversion is now referred to as the “STAR” model, first discussed by Grimes, Cheek, and Norem (2011). You’ll often find the 4 types of introverts mentioned, and in this article we’ll explain them, and what that may mean to you.
“STAR” – the 4 types of introverts
According to Grimes, Cheek, and Norem (2011), there are four types of introverts:
- Social Introverts:
These introverts are still in their element socialising with others, but they tend to prefer smaller, more intimate gatherings rather than large crowds. They may find socialising draining and need alone time to recharge.’
They can be a grounding element in a social gathering, and are often a source of calm and comfort for more anxious types when socialising, according to Carla Marie Manly, PhD for Well and Good.
- Thinking Introverts:
Thinking introverts are introspective and spend a lot of time in their own heads. They may be creative and enjoy exploring complex ideas and concepts.
Much like the introvert in the workplace, they can bring creative angles and a different perspective to the conversation.
- Anxious Introverts:
These introverts are more sensitive to stimuli and may find social situations overwhelming or anxiety-provoking. They may also be more prone to rumination and worry, or even social anxiety.
Though they tend to worry more (or too much!), these worries helps them classify things in orders and groups, which can be helpful in larger gatherings (where they may create a smaller group towards the edge of the event), or projects where organisation is needed.
- Restrained Introverts:
These introverts are cautious and measured in their actions and tend to think before they speak. They may take longer to warm up to new people or situations and will be very guarded until they feel comfortable.
Restrained Introverts can bring a grounding force to a social gathering. Once they feel comfortable, they will be completely open and a very genuine person to connect with.
Am I more than one type of introvert?
I can hear you say: “Those are all introvert traits, I’m not just one of these!”, and you’re totally right! That’s also where the discussions come about with these models, as the traits aren’t mutually exclusive at all.
You may identify strongly with one, two, or more of these. Additionally, some researchers argue that introversion is a continuum rather than a set of discrete categories, and I do tend to agree.
I’m a thinking and anxious introvert, but recognise myself most in preferring smaller social groups, and needing a lot of recovery time after socialising!
While there is no definitive scientific evidence to support the STAR model specifically, research has shown that introverts do exhibit a range of characteristics and behaviors that may be similar to those described in the model.
Overall, while the STAR model may not be universally accepted, it can provide a useful framework for understanding some of the ways in which introverts may differ from extroverts.
Sources:
Grimes, Jennifer & Cheek, Jonathan & Norem, Julie. (2011). Four Meanings of Introversion: Social, Thinking, Anxious, and Inhibited Introversion.