Topic 4. Types of children’s character. Children introverts and extroverts

Task 7. Read the text and answer the questions after it.

Extroverts

Everyone is capable of being both extroverted and introverted, and in many cases the way we act is dictated by the situation we're in and what kind of presentation is called for. For example, if you have a job that requires a lot of meetings, interaction with many people, and perhaps participation in group projects, you will take on a somewhat extroverted approach as that is what is required in those situations. At the same time, you may have a preference for introversion. The point is that we all have a preference for one or the other that becomes apparent when we consider where we tend to draw our energy from, or said another way, how we are energized. The extrovert draws energy from others or is energized by other people. They thrive in situations where there is a lot of interaction, activity, and stimulation. As such, extroverts are usually quite social and gregarious and have an innate ability to talk to new people. They are comfortable in groups, quick to approach others including strangers, and enjoy working in busy stimulating environments. Conversely, they can feel quite lonely and drained if they have to spend a lot of time alone.

Extroverts can be characterized as "expressive." They tend to direct their energy outward toward action and speech. The desire to interact along with a preference for activity can lead them to act before thinking. This has to do with their innate enthusiasm for the process and energy fostered through personal interaction as opposed to internally processing information before interacting or communicating. Extroverts seem accessible and often are noticed because of their ease with others and obvious pleasure in conversing and interacting with others. They are more likely to enjoy being in the public eye, and gravitate toward activities that promote interaction or that cater to larger groups of people.

The extroverted child is usually high-energy and enjoys doing things with his parents. They like partnerships, interactive play, and often performing. Conversely, these children do not tend to enjoy playing alone in their rooms for great periods of time. They don't self-entertain well, and in terms of learning style, they learn best through interaction and talking. Adolescent extroverts tend to like study groups as they learn by explaining what they know to others, or by hearing others explain it to them. In general, these children will enjoy interacting with other children and will be energized by group activities.

Extroverts become bored if they spend too much time alone. Because of their interactive nature, they need plenty of outlets for their energetic and creative expression whether this be on an artistic, physical or intellectual level. Moreover, they need feedback from others and prefer demonstrating their talents to others rather than gaining a sense of accomplishment on their own. Because extroverts have a strong need to express their ideas and views, they are greatly hampered by those who are critical or raise many objections in the course of their expression. They also object to a lot of routine, or long projects that seem to go on indefinitely. Extroverts need new stimulation on a regular basis and are drained by long-term commitments that stymie their need for variety. This doesn't mean that they cannot make long-term personal commitments to relationships or to personal goals, but they will need to find ways to bring variety and excitement to these situations.

A bubble bath with lots of toys, time just to talk and express, walking in nature with a loved one and talking, or being read to are all calming activities for the extrovert. Having a partner or helper to assist with tedious work, or even to bounce ideas off of is important to the extrovert. Sometimes physical activity that involves smooth, large body movements such as water dance or yoga help to center the extrovert. Above all, being able to pursue his or her goals and interests is very important to the extrovert and requires patience and support from parents. Extroverted children may enjoy any of the following activities:

• Putting on plays, puppet shows, or slapstick comedy routines

• Dressing up in costumes and play acting

• Speaking into a microphone or addressing an audience

• Building things

• Arts and crafts

• Playing team sports

• Joining social clubs

• Going to libraries, museums, or scientific exhibitions

• Going on picnics or to camps

• Participating in any of the performing arts

• Speaking freely on subjects of personal interest

• Discussing ideas and future goals to an enthusiastic listener

• Participating in physical activity such as jumping on trampolines