Not Introvert or Extrovert? You Might Be an “Otrovert”

Since old times, we were told that each person is either on the introvert or extrovert end of the spectrum. You either refuel on your own or you refuel at a party. Then the “ambiverts”–the folks in the sweet spot–came. However, many of us still did not feel that there was a perfect fit with those kinds of labels.

The psychiatrists are now discussing a new type: Otrovert. 

Dr. Rami Kaminski coined the word, which was also based on the Spanish word, otro, which means other. They are all about being an outsider, unlike introverts, who look inwardly, or extroverts, who look outward. They do not always hate others; however, they seldom feel that they are part of a group.

The “Observer” Energy

The distinguishing feature of an otrovert is his or her perspective. They always seem to be anthropologists who are staring over the glass wall. They are able to be pleasant, humorous, and good at talking, but they do not blend in with the crowd. The majority of the individuals attempt to resonate with group energy, and otroverts remain independent emotionally.

This renders them choosy socialites. An otrovert will perhaps enjoy a three-hour conversation with someone in a secluded spot and be completely exhausted by a group dinner or a team-building event.

Signs You Might Be One

There are some main indicators that have been identified by psychiatrists to indicate this type:

1. One-on-one over groups: You prefer to have deep individual relationships rather than be members of a crew or squad.
2. Independent thinking: You do not find yourself in need of group approval, and you tend to disregard the social trends or groupthink.
3. The Exit strategy: You may spend an hour or two at a party, then, after a few more real conversations, you are ready to sneak out without any feelings of guilt.
4. High empathy, low dependence: You can easily tell how the other person feels, but you do not rely on them to assist in processing your feelings.

Why It Matters

Over the years, individuals with such characteristics were wrongly diagnosed as having social anxiety or as being difficult. According to Dr. Kaminski, there is nothing wrong with being an otrovert; quite on the contrary, it is a strength.

In the past, these traits had been manifested by big names such as Albert Einstein and Frida Kahlo. Otroverts tend to be extremely creative and strong since they were not tied down in the same rut. Their worldview is different since they are viewing the world as outsiders.

When you feel that you are too social to be introverts and too detached to be extroverts, you should not get confused. You perhaps are headed some other way.