Introversion & Antisociality

Here are a few fun facts about me. I voluntarily spoke at my high school graduation. During my college days, I pitched a bid to a university provost in order to get university funds for a collegiate engineering group for which I served as vice president; and I got our group the money. I’ve hosted an open mic night for poetry. I competed in a poetry slam. While serving as a technology professional, I’ve both frequently and enthusiastically presented to analysts, engineers, middle managers and corporate executives.

Here’s another fun fact about me: I’m an introvert.

I know. I know. No introvert would choose to do all of that. That’s what you’re thinking, right? Well… Here’s the deal with those situations: I enjoy those activities. There are many other introverts who also enjoy social activity. Let’s take a look at what it actually means to be an introvert.

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Introversion is a personality trait characterized by a preference for solitude and reflection over social interaction. Introverts often feel more energized and focused when they are alone or in small, intimate settings rather than in large groups or social gatherings. They tend to be introspective, deep thinkers who value their inner world and may find excessive socializing draining.

As we can see, being an introvert suggests that individuals with this personality trait have a preference for solitude for a good deal of their time spent. That doesn’t mean that they don’t desire socialization, at all. Indeed, socialization is a basic human need. That’s why solitary confinement is considered a harsh punishment. It cuts people off from that human need. Introverts need solitude in order to recharge their internal battery. I usually use this time to meditate, relax and reflect on both myself and the relationships that I have with others. When I’m in this state, I’m often referred to as “antisocial” by some of my friends and family. I’ve even used the term to refer to myself, on occasion. Recently, I’ve found that the term is not actually indicative of introverted behavior.

Antisocial behavior refers to actions or attitudes that violate societal norms and disregard the rights and feelings of others. It encompasses a range of behaviors, from minor infractions to serious criminal acts. Individuals exhibiting antisocial behavior may display traits such as aggression, deceitfulness, impulsivity, and a lack of empathy or remorse. It’s important to note that while the term “antisocial” is often used interchangeably with “introverted,” they are distinct concepts, with antisocial behavior reflecting a disregard for social norms rather than a preference for solitude. More information on this behavioral pattern can be found in this article published by the American Psychiatric Association.

Antisocial is a compound word that is made up from the words “anti” and “social”. “Anti” means to be either opposed to or against something. “Social” means that which relates to either society or its organization. The definition of antisocial above does fit when considering the meaning of the individual words.

When both I and my friends use the term “social” we are actually referring to “socializing”. Socializing refers to the action or practice of participating in social activities or mixing socially with others. Introverts are indeed of a mind to be anti-socializing, at times. However, anti-socializing isn’t a term that is widely used, and I’m not suggesting that we start. I’d recommend simply dropping the use of the word “antisocial” to describe introverts, unless you know the person or persons to be ones who do desire to both disregard the rights of others and destabilize societal norms.

Although I’m not trying to destabilize our society, there do seem to be some similarities among the definitions of introversion and antisociality. Let’s consider the overlap between these two psychological concepts. Introversion and antisocial behavior share commonalities in their deviation from societal norms regarding social interaction. Both introverts and individuals exhibiting antisocial behavior may appear less socially engaged compared to the broader population. However, the motivations and implications of their behavior differ significantly. Introversion primarily reflects a preference for solitude and introspection, without necessarily violating societal norms or displaying aggression. In contrast, antisocial behavior involves a disregard for social norms and the rights of others, often accompanied by aggressive or deceitful tendencies. Thus, while both introversion and antisocial behavior involve reduced social engagement, the underlying motivations and implications of their behavior set them apart.

While introverts tend to differ in the amount of social interaction they desire when compared to the general population, their decreased socialization is spurred on by a desire to serve their own needs for solitude. On the other hand, those exhibiting antisocial behaviors are looking to aggressively disrupt society around them. For further clarity, when introverts do decide to socialize with others, they are likely to more-or-less engage in socially acceptable ways. In contrast, antisocial individuals will consistently and intently break social norms in order to be harmful to both those around them and society, at large.

At this point, I have my marching orders. I’ll strive to no longer refer to either myself or other introverts as “antisocial.” Further, I’ll no longer support the use of the term when used by others to describe introversion. Indeed, I’ll endeavor to respectfully correct others by offering the one descriptor that aptly defines introverts: introverted.

What do you think? Are you an introvert who has accepted being labeled as antisocial? Are you an extrovert who has always considered introverts to be antisocial? Share your thoughts in the comments below!