Ever wonder what attracts couples to one another? Perhaps it’s when two people are so much alike, that everything seems to pair up. On the other hand, opposites attract. Deciding which personality match-up is better, is all up to the individual persons involved, but College Magazine has the pros and cons of each pair.
Introverts and extroverts: Meet your match.
What am I?
Though there are people who fall in between the two personality types, when really given a choice, most would find that they fall into one category more than the other. In general terms, introverts tend to be a bit more shy and quiet, but not necessarily all the time. They enjoy being alone and get pleasure out of the time they spend by themselves. Extroverts tend to be more outgoing and get pleasure out of being the center of attention. They would rather be out on the town, and find joy in meeting new people.
Linda Silverman, Director of the Gifted Development Center, explained, “Introverts are wired differently from extraverts and they have different needs. Extraverts get their energy from interaction with people and the external world. Introverts get their energy from within themselves.”
So how could the potential different combinations of these two personality types mix?
Introverted and Extroverted
“I love that my girlfriend and I are so different because it never gets boring. I am really shy and she is very outgoing, so it is almost like we balance each other out.”— Jason Curry, Senior, Louisiana State University
Compliment: The “Opposites Attract” theory. These two personalities go together well because they are so different. Each person brings their own take on situations to the table.
Clash: Plans and dates. While the extrovert may want to go out to a party and be around other people, the introvert may just want a quiet movie night cuddled up on the couch together. Finding a way to compromise would be crucial.
Extroverted and Extroverted
Compliment: They would always have fun together and would be very social, the life of the party.
Clash: This relationship could become one big party and lack one-on-one time. Jealousy over flirting and attention-seeking may become an issue and the couple should focus on communication.
Introverted and Introverted
“My boyfriend and I are both pretty shy. I love it because he doesn’t mind that I would rather cook dinner at home then go out to a restaurant.”— Emily Keeaton, Sophomore, New York University
Compliment: They enjoy one another’s company, potentially create a deep connection with one another and have no problem with just staying home.
Clash: With both partners getting their energy from within, it may take a while to make a connection and the relationship could get boring or seem to be at a standstill. The couple would need to find a way to create excitement in the relationship, without compromising each person’s comfort.
