Health: Psychiatrists identify a third personality type, the 'otrovert'

A New York-based psychiatrist has described a third personality category—the 'otrovert'—that challenges the long-standing binary of introvert and extrovert. Dr. Rami Kaminski, who has studied personality types for decades, says otroverts may appear popular and sociable in one-on-one interactions yet struggle to foster a sense of belonging when surrounded by larger groups. The concept is not yet a formal diagnosis, but it has sparked renewed discussion about how people connect in different social settings and what that means for their mental health and relationships. The idea has circulated in health coverage in recent weeks, drawing on years of clinical observation and scholarly inquiry into how biology and environment shape temperament.

The classic introvert recharges by spending time alone and tends to thrive when given space to think and reflect. They often value a close-knit circle of friends rather than large social networks, and their career choices frequently favor routine and solitary or semi-autonomous work, such as journalism, writing, or design. Introverts are not inherently lacking confidence; instead, they may operate with a smaller window of tolerance for overstimulation and stress. When pushed into uncomfortable situations, they can experience heightened anxiety, making it important to set boundaries and plan their movements ahead of social or work obligations. Experts note that introversion stems from a mix of biology and experience, with self-knowledge acting as a tool to manage stress and build resilience.

Extroverts, by contrast, are described as energized by social interaction and quick to engage with new experiences. They often exhibit a robust response to dopamine, a hormone linked to reward, which can contribute to more positive mood states and a proclivity for leadership and risk-taking. While extroverts can thrive in team settings, their strength in mobilizing group energy can come with downsides, including impulsivity or insufficient time for reflection. In the workplace, extroverts may excel at driving collaboration and high-stakes tasks, but they may also overlook the needs of more introverted colleagues. Psychotherapist Debbie Keenan emphasizes that awareness of these dynamics is crucial: understanding one’s own tendencies helps manage difficult emotions, improve relationships, and build confidence and resilience. Stress management remains a particular challenge for introverts, and even extroverts can benefit from pausing to consider others’ needs amid fast-paced environments.

The otrovert, a term derived from the Spanish word for 'other', is described as a bundle of contradictions. Kaminski describes otroverts as organized, capable leaders who nevertheless prefer not to bask in the spotlight or rely on co-dependency within relationships. They may be highly social in certain contexts while deeply independent in others, walking to the beat of their own drum. In intimate relationships, otroverts are said to form strong bonds with others who share similar boundaries, and they may find deep satisfaction in mutual respect and autonomy. Keenan notes that otroverts can nurture intimacy effectively, even as they resist traditional codes of reciprocity that rely on constant give-and-take. In other words, they may connect more meaningfully with fellow otroverts, where there is financial or emotional independence and a shared understanding of personal space.

The notion of otroverts adds nuance to how people think about belonging and social connection. Kaminski argues that the line between being social and feeling connected is not absolute, and people can show different facets of their personalities in different contexts. The idea is not to pathologize any type but to recognize that the same individual can exhibit both sociable behavior and a quiet, reflective interior life. Keenan echoes that sentiment, highlighting the value of self-awareness as a foundation for healthier relationships and better stress management. Importantly, experts caution that heritability does not determine destiny; genetics may shape predispositions, but environment, upbringing, and life experiences shape how tendencies are expressed over time. Research cited by the feature suggests that up to 60 percent of personality traits can be inherited, underscoring the role of biology while acknowledging substantial room for personal development.

The discussion comes in the wake of a popular health feature that framed the conversation around a quiz designed to identify whether a person leans introvert, extrovert, or otrovert. While quizzes can offer helpful language for self-reflection, clinicians warn against overreliance on simplistic classifications. The goal, they say, is to foster greater self-awareness and adapt interactions to reduce stress, enhance communication, and support healthy relationships. In practical terms, recognizing the potential for an otrovert profile may encourage individuals to seek environments that balance social stimulation with sufficient downtime, and to cultivate relationships that respect boundaries and mutual autonomy. The wider takeaway for readers is a reminder that personality exists on a spectrum, with fluid boundaries between categories and room for personal growth across different stages of life.

As researchers continue to examine how genetics and environment interact to shape social tendencies, many experts frame the conversation around practical implications for daily life. For some people, reframing social expectations can reduce anxiety and improve engagement in both personal and professional realms. For others, it may prompt more deliberate boundary-setting, ensuring that interactions align with core values and energy levels. While the idea of an otrovert is still developing in academic and clinical circles, the recognition of a broader spectrum of social temperament reflects ongoing efforts to understand the complexity of human behavior and the diverse ways people experience belonging within groups and communities. Ultimately, the message is one of informed self-awareness: knowing where you sit on the spectrum can help you navigate relationships with greater confidence and resilience.