We are often encouraged to be "outgoing" as if introversion is a shortcoming that must be corrected. However, the latest psychological research has brought about an interesting reversal: even introverts may experience more pleasure if they can "act" as extroverts appropriately.
Introversion and extroversion stereotypes
In society, there is a common prejudice that extroversion is superior. In American culture, extroversion is often associated with leadership, success, and popularity. However, many job advertisements also imply the need for extroverted traits such as "good communication" and "full of energy."
This bias is reflected in everyday vocabulary. Words used to describe extroversion, such as "energetic" and "enthusiastic and cheerful," often have a positive connotation. However, words used to describe introversion, such as "taciturn" and "isolated," mostly have a derogatory connotation. This kind of language environment creates pressure on introverts in the invisible bridge.
"Pretend to be extroverted" experimental design
Researchers involved in a groundbreaking experiment at the University of California recruited a whopping 123 participants. Then, the researchers asked this large group of participants to forcefully and deliberately exhibit behaviors typical of extroverts for a week, such as taking the initiative to talk to others and expressing themselves with extreme confidence.
A week later, the same participants were asked to exhibit or revert to introverted traits, such as listening more and speaking less and spending time alone quietly. The researchers sent emails every three days to remind them to maintain corresponding behavior patterns, and also tracked their feelings.
The difference between short-term and long-term studies
There have been previous studies focusing on the benefits of forced extroversion, but the experiments were generally short-lived. For example, one study simply asked people commuting to and from work to have a brief conversation with a stranger on a train, and ultimately found that the person who was having the conversation was in a happier mood.
Unlike this new study, it had such a special requirement that participants continued to change their behavior for a complete week. Such a long-term careful observation process can more truly and truthfully reflect the continuous and uninterrupted impact of changes in behavior on emotions, rather than just the effect that appears instantaneously.
Specific findings and data from the experiment
The researchers who conducted the study used a number of scales to measure the participants' happiness, and the results clearly showed that after Extraversion Week, the vast majority of participants reported higher levels of positive emotions and life satisfaction.
On the contrary, after the "Introverted Behavior Week" ended, their happiness generally showed a downward trend. An interesting detail is that the participants did not report feeling intense fatigue or discomfort from "pretending" to be extroverted.
plasticity of behavior change
This study challenges the old idea that "personality is difficult to change." The college students who participated in the experiment showed strong behavioral plasticity. They were able to adjust their social styles relatively smoothly according to the guidance.
This shows that for many people, consciously changing certain social behaviors, such as trying to communicate more proactively on specific occasions, is a feasible choice that may bring positive benefits, and is not something difficult to achieve.
Research limitations and future directions
This study has some limitations. The participants are mainly college students. People in this age group may be more inclined to try new behaviors. The effect may be different for people of other age groups or professional backgrounds.
Whether extending the duration of "pretending to be extroverted" to several months or even longer will cause side effects or rebound effects, study co-author Lyubomirsky also said that this still needs to be verified by future longer-term studies.
Have you ever changed your speech behavior in the past in order to fit into a certain occasion? Did such "acting" bring you a better experience, or did it make you feel more tired? You are welcome to share your true story in the comment area. If you find it inspiring, please like it and support it?
