Surrounded By Idiots

Introverts are people who are more socially reserved and need to spend time alone to recharge. Erikson uses the term "introvert” to describe the Green and Blue personality types, who he feels are less social than the Yellow and Red types. The author claims that introverts are “active in their inner world” and have emotions which tend to “operate beneath the surface” (Locations 711, 1743).

Extroverts are people who are socially outgoing and enjoy spending a lot of time with other people. They do not need to have as much alone time as introverts, and are generally more comfortable being the center of attention. Erikson uses this term to describe the Red and Yellow types, who are confident presenters and conversationalists.

The author considers Greens as “Stable” people who value safety and predictability. They often cooperate well with others, since they tend to be friendly and prioritize harmony in a group setting. This may also cause them to repress their real opinions and feelings in order to avoid conflict. As introverts, Greens tend to need more alone time and are not comfortable being the center of attention.

Erikson nicknames the Red type the “Dominant” personality, as they tend to be natural leaders who are decisive, efficient, and hardworking. Reds often flout the rules and are more interested in being productive than following social conventions. This type is the most likely to be controlling toward others, and their frank conversational style may come across as brash or rude to others.