Phobias are a fascinating topic for me. More than likely, because I suffer from a couple. There are the common phobias that everyone knows about, like fear of heights (which I have a severe case of). However, I was curious if there were phobias that were more common among introverts versus extroverts. After a little research, here are 5 phobias that introverts are more prone to than extroverts.
Anthropophobia
Anthropophobia is the fear of people or company. A person who is an introvert, is more comfortable in their own head. Being alone isn’t a punishment, it’s a way to recharge and embrace our inner most thoughts and contemplation. Nonetheless, a phobia is an extreme or irrational fear. As an introvert myself, I prefer being alone or with a small circle of people, but I don’t fear people or company.
Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia is the fear of open crowded spaces. For example, someone suffering from this phobia would not be able to go to concerts, or to something like a festival. Even theme parks, or flea markets would be a horror. Introverts like small, cozy, quiet places. Preferably, alone or with only a few of our favorite people. Though most of us do not have a fear of crowded spaces, we will try to avoid them if possible.
Glossophobia
Glossophobia is the fear of public speaking. Okay, this one I can definitely feel. I don’t have glossophobia, but public speaking is one of my least favorite activities. I do it because it’s part of my job, but it has taken me a long time to not shake so bad that I looked like I was having a fit. College presentations about did me in. Today, I’m able to do public speaking and hide my complete dislike of it. Undoubtedly, the reality of suffering from glossophobia has to be suffocating.
Mysophobia
Mysophobia is a fear of germs or dirt. This may sound like a weird one, however, there is a reason that introverts are more prone to this than extroverts. Introverts have a personal bubble that we like to be respected. We don’t like to have people invade this personal space. I have to keep myself from disinfecting my space and them instantly! So this phobia is understandable to me. Unfortunately, this phobia can be a debilitating one as even a small gesture as hand shaking can be an impossible task.
Social Anxiety
Social Anxiety or Social Phobia is a fear of social situations or a fear of being judged by others. While, most of us have experienced some semblance of this, especially regarding being judged, it is not even close to what sufferers endure. This phobia can be debilitating for those who suffer from it, making it difficult to work, keep friends and sometimes even do daily tasks. Most introverts tend to want to avoid social situations, however, not with the same intensity and fear. Sufferers even experience physical symptoms that make it difficult to cope.
More Susceptible
So why are these phobias more prevalent with introverts. Following are some reasons why, mainly because of the very definition of why makes introverts who they are:
- First, our energy source is solitude, peace and quiet. Extroverts are rejuvenated when they have stimulus.
- Introverts don’t like small talk, we like meaningful deep conversations. Unfortunately, that makes it tough to meet new people and socialize. Extroverts are small talk experts and can pretty much talk to anyone.
- Communication styles are very different between introverts and extroverts. Introverts tend to think before they speak. We like to take our time to process what we are going to say. In addition, many of us prefer written to verbal communication. Extroverts like to talk through their thoughts. They say what they think and are energetic about it.
- Introverts, and I know this well, prefer to work independently or in small groups. This allows us to process our thoughts, and do our best work. Extroverts, on the other hand, work better with a team environment, loving the interaction and group activities.
- Stimulus today is, as everyone knows, is constant. As an introvert myself, I can get overstimulated quickly. For example, in a place with lots of noise, lights and crowds, I feel like a phone that has 100 apps pulling on its battery. Extroverts, however, tend to seek out stimulus. They are more comfortable with crowds, and lively places.
- Stress is a big factor. Introverts need to retreat to a quiet place. Additionally, participating in mindfulness activities such as mediation or yoga, helps us refocus and deal with stress. Extroverts are more likely to participate in sports, or seek out social gatherings so they can talk through their stress factors.
Get Help
For anyone suffering with a phobia, please know you are not alone. Seek help through a local therapist, or even local support groups. There are medications, such as anti-anxiety or antidepressants, that can also help, that can be prescribed by a doctor. In addition, there are now a lot of online therapy options such as BetterHelp, TalkSpace or Brightside Health.
