What do you think of when you hear that someone is an “introvert”?
According to Urban Dictionary, an introvert is often a negative connotation: a person who no one understands, someone who sits at home and watches Netflix all day, and a rude or stuck up person. But it has some positive connotations as well: a strong sense of self, few friends but they are precious to them, fascinating to talk to because they have a different view of the world, loyal, and thinks deeply.
Urban Dictionary also states that social interactions deplete introverts. That is incredibly truthful. One social interaction can make me tired and want to crawl back into bed. However, one thing Urban says is that extroverts are usually needy. But, I am a needy introvert. But, I am not needy for just any social interaction- I am needy for a relationship with a guy.
Now, what characteristics do you define someone to be when you say someone is “antisocial”?
Does withdrawn come to mind? How about unfriendly? Do you think of criminals? I know what I think of: I think of those killers that do murder/suicide in schools. Think Eric and Dylan Klebold, Elliot Rodger, Seung-Hui Cho, etc. “Against society” is a common theme for antisocial people. Most antisocial people are also introverts. But, not all introverts are antisocial.
Now that you understand the difference, let me throw something in that will help you understand. I am a social introvert. That means that I prefer small groups over larger ones. I would rather stay at home and read a book than going to a party with many strangers. In a party, you can find me away from the crowds and with a book in my hand or in a smaller group of people away from the main crowd.
Now, just because I hide in the corner while a party goes on also doesn’t mean that I am shy. Shy people have a fear of being in crowds of people because they may be negatively judged. I am shy when it comes to speaking in front of people but when it comes to making friends or meeting new people, I will be the first person to speak and introduce myself. But, once more people join our little group, I will recluse and hide away.
