Holiday phobia

The year end is not just about holidays and bonuses. It’s tough, hectic and weary. One gathering after another… batches of people to socialize with… A people person may enjoy it. Unfortunately, I’m not. Why are we so different? I learnt this very interesting theory in my psychology course:


Eysenck proposed that extraversion was caused by variability in cortical arousal: "introverts are characterized by higher levels of activity than extraverts and so are chronically more cortically aroused than extraverts". While it seems counterintuitive to suppose that introverts are more aroused than extraverts, the putative effect this has on behaviour is such that the introvert seeks lower levels of stimulation. Conversely, the extravert seeks to heighten his or her arousal to a more favourable level increased activity, social engagement and other stimulation-seeking behaviors.

So instead of being with acquaintances in a loud place, I’d rather stay home quietly. Leave me alone please -- I have high cortical arousal level.