From unstable extroverts to stable introverts - a new look at personality

Introduction. Hans Eysenck was the most cited psychologist in the world in his lifetime. He did mainstream research as well as psychological explorations of arcane subjects such as astrology. Learn about his fascinating personality model and understand human nature better! 👇🏻

Extraversion/Introversion - the first axis. Extroverts seek out social stimulation while introverts seek out personal space. Extroverts have a more easy-going demeanor while introverts like greater control. True extroverts and true introverts are only 16% of the population each!

The biology of extraversion. Eysenck set himself apart by connecting personality with biology. By measuring "skin conductance, brain waves and sweating," he found that extroverts are "chronically under-aroused" and therefore seek the anti-dote to their boredom via socializing.

Neuroticism/Stability - the second axis. In neurotic people, the fight-flight response is triggered at the suggestion of minor threats. Stable people can take environmental and social data in more neutrally and are faster at putting a positive spin on events.

The biology of neuroticism. By measuring "rate, blood pressure and muscular tension especially in the forehead," Eysenck found that neurotic people were bad at suppressing negative emotions. They became easily nervous and upset because they were more sensitive.

Stable extroverts. Putting these two axes together, four personality types emerge. The stable extroverts have all the makings of a leader: their talkative and lively nature enable them to have a presence while their emotional stability makes them natural social alphas.

Unstable extroverts. Unstable extroverts are restless, touchy, and highly impulsive. They demonstrate more emotional range than stable extroverts and can get irresponsible. They're still very much oriented towards people, but have a more love-hate relationship with them.

Stable introverts. Stable introverts have a calm head on their shoulders. They can be relied upon to execute plans. They are careful - and are often found inside peaceful and controlled environments of their own making.

Unstable introverts. These are highly neurotic introverts - socializing has too many variables for their comfort but being alone also triggers their anxiety. They demonstrate a paradoxical mix of rigidity and moodiness - which often finds an outlet in interesting art.

Psychoticism - the missing axis? Over the years, Eysenck added a third axis: Psychoticism. People high in this trait have an easy time rejecting social norms & rules. Eysenck tied psychoticism with high testosterone - such people are "achievement-oriented" but can get dogmatic.