The Four Types Of Extroverts Explained

So you’ve had a long week and you’re feeling pretty drained. How do you refill the empty gas tank that once housed all your energy and motivation? If your instinct is to get out of the house and interact with people, it sounds like you might be an extrovert. But what exactly does that mean?

If your understanding of extroversion comes exclusively from movies and television, you might have excuse for assuming that being extroverted simply boils down to being a social butterfly. Extroverts are often portrayed as friendly, confident, and tireless conversationalists. While extroverts can certainly have these qualities, that archetype isn’t always accurate.

The theory behind extroversion and its opposite, introversion, developed by psychologist Carl Jung, isn’t as clear-cut and straightforward as popular culture might lead us to believe. Between these designations, there are different nuances and personality types. For example, it’s commonly accepted that there are four types of introversion. Similarly, the general term of “extrovert” can also be broken down into four specific categories: sensors, feelers, intuitives, and thinkers. These subtypes — sometimes referred to as cognitive functions since they affect how we think and interact — can put a different spin on extroversion and determine the dynamics of the relationship between you and the world.

These cognitive functions even serve as the core of the popular Myers-Briggs personality test, which was based on Jung’s original theory. But you don’t need to read the entire Myers-Briggs report to begin to understand the various ways extroversion can manifest. Sometimes, it’s best to start with the basics. With that in mind, here’s everything you really need to know about the four types of extroverts.

Extroverts vs. introverts

First, it’s important to understand the actual difference between extroversion and introversion. Contrary to popular belief, these facets don’t have to do with how you present yourself. Being extroverted doesn’t necessarily mean you’re an extrovert, and being more reserved doesn’t mean you’re an introvert. Rather, it has to do with how you internally process social interaction.

Typically, extroverts feel their energy reserves recharged by spending time with other people. When an extrovert is feeling down or tired, their first instinct may be to meet up with some friends for brunch or a movie night. At work, they probably enjoy group work and collaboration. Introverts, on the other hand, feel drained by social situations. It’s not that they don’t like people, but they need a certain amount of alone time to recharge their energy. Because of this, introverts may prefer to work on independent projects. And when they’re feeling drained, introverts would rather relax at home than join a bar crawl.

As extroversion and introversion are two ends of a spectrum, it’s also possible that you find yourself somewhere in the middle. This is known as an ambivert. Ambiverts can recharge their energy tanks in a variety of ways, depending on their mood. Some days, they may prefer a quiet night in with Netflix, while other days, they need quality time with friends to unwind and recharge.

In any case, whether you’re a pure extrovert or an ambivert with extroverted tendencies, extroversion isn’t a one-size-fits-all designation. So, if you want to understand how your social battery works, it can help to narrow down what kind of extrovert you are.

Extroverted sensors

One thing that sets the four types of extroverts apart is how socializing improves their mood and energy levels. For extroverted sensors, it’s all about interacting with the world around them. Fueled by novelty and new experiences, extroverted sensors thrive on stimulation, whether it’s going somewhere unfamiliar, trying exotic foods for the first time, or making new friends (according to Psychology Junkie). They’re likely to enjoy activities that trigger a visceral reaction and engage their five senses, like sports, concerts, or roller coasters. And when they’re hanging out with friends, they’d rather share an active, memorable experience than just bond over drinks.

Because extroverted sensors are so in tune with their surroundings, these individuals tend to live in the moment. For one, they’re likely to appreciate the little details in their environment, like the particular light cast by a sunset or the smell of salt when they’re hanging out near the beach. But that doesn’t mean extroverted sensors are slow. Because they’re so grounded in the present rather than the past or future, extroverted sensors can be prone to spontaneous decision making (via introverted growth). Unconstrained by future consequences or past mistakes, sensors feel free to seize the moment and enjoy life to the fullest.

Extroverted feelers

Of the four types of extroverts, sensitive extroverts probably come closest to our stereotypical idea of ​​extroversion. Their energy levels are wired with excitement, and they love to soak up waves of happiness from everyone around them. While sensitive extroverts need new places or faces to keep them busy, sensitive extroverts just need the presence of people they like (according to Thought Catalog). As such, you’re likely to find sensitive extroverts drawn to outings where the main event is conversation, like a party or dinner with friends.

Extroverted people sometimes get a bad rap for being pushy or clueless, but sensitive extroverts are actually very aware of social cues. As So Syncd points out, these extroverts are extremely empathetic and naturally shape their behavior to fit the emotions and even perceived hierarchy of those close to them. Because they’re in tune with the vibe of the entire crowd around them, sensitive extroverts are quintessential hosts and mediators. They spend their time making sure everyone is having a good time and getting along, using compassion and insight to keep things flowing smoothly.

Because they love to please people, extroverts also love to be helpful. Think of that friend you’d call if you needed an emergency loan or help moving a couch. However, this generosity can have a downside. Extroverts can notice if they give a lot of favors without getting anything in return, and this can quickly turn into resentment over a perceived lack of appreciation (via Personality Development). When in doubt, treat an extrovert as if the love language of acts of service is the way to their heart.

Extroverted intuitives

Extroverted intuition, fueled by the enthusiasm of pure ideas, creates a bridge between the external and internal worlds. While sensors love experiences and feelers crave human connection, extroverted intuitives get their energy from possibilities. These are the wild planners of any friend group—the person who’s constantly thinking up fake band names, “Would you rather” suggestions, or plots for hypothetical movies.

Extroverted intuitives have one eye firmly on the future, often preoccupied with speculation. While this very thought-driven personality may seem to border on introvert territory, extroverted intuitives need people around them who serve as collaborators and sounding boards. Intuitives love group projects or a good debate, even if the discussion serves no greater purpose than exploring a topic from all angles. Hyper-curious, they may also ask a lot of personal questions. But they have no intention of stepping on anyone’s toes; these extroverts simply appreciate the opportunity to spend time chatting, learning, and coming up with fantastic ideas for entertainment.

On the plus side, intuitives’ passion for possibilities tends to make them very open-minded. However, it can also make these extroverts very indecisive, restless, and prone to short attention spans as they jump from one idea to the next. If you’re friends with an extroverted intuitive, good luck keeping them focused and committed to a single course of action.

Extroverted thinkers

Last but not least, extroverted thinkers get their energy from progress and social standing. These dynamic, goal-oriented individuals need to be around other people as an indicator of their own status. Natural leaders and decision-makers, extroverted thinkers like to cross tasks off their list and rally the troops to get things done.

While this personality type can sometimes come across as pushy or aggressive, it can be extremely helpful to have an extroverted thinker in your group. The focus and drive of an extroverted thinker can help move an entire group forward, especially if there are a few intuitives who need help narrowing down the options. If your friends can never decide which restaurant to visit on a Friday night, you’re probably missing an extroverted thinker. Let’s put it this way: It’s no wonder the Myers-Briggs tests divide this type of extrovert into variants known as “The Manager” and “The General.”

This may all sound cold and domineering, but it’s important to remember that extroverted thinkers are still social individuals. While they may crave external validation, this doesn’t always mean they’re selfish or self-centered. These extroverts can just as easily enjoy group accomplishments and the satisfaction of a team that runs like a well-oiled machine. As Thought Catalog notes, while they may not be the warmest and most caring type of extrovert, thinkers can genuinely enjoy the company of others—though they may still act like they’re at a networking event.