Sources of Stress> Internal Sources of Stress - Introversion and Extroversion

People do not react to the same stressful event in the same way. Some become very tense or ill, while others remain calm and continue trying. Personality, attitude, and various life factors cause these differences in reaction to stress.

• Introverts are quiet, reserved, and inward‑focused.
• Under stress, introverts may withdraw, think a lot, and feel overwhelmed if coping skills are weak.
• Extroverts are outgoing, talkative, and enjoy being with others.
• Under stress, extroverts usually talk to people, seek support, and treat stress as a normal challenge.

• Disease‑prone people fall ill frequently and are affected even by minor stress.
• Resilient or hardy individuals can handle many difficulties without becoming easily ill.
• Resilient people feel committed, believe they have control, and see change as a challenge rather than a threat.

• Optimism is the tendency to expect positive outcomes.
• Optimists see the “bucket as half full” and consider problems temporary and manageable.
• Pessimism is the tendency to expect negative outcomes.
• Pessimists see the “bucket as half empty” and view problems as permanent and widespread.

• Optimists often use problem‑focused coping and make clear, practical plans.
• They set priorities, focus on the main task, and seek social support.
• Pessimists often use denial and avoidance, acting as if there is no problem.
• They may withdraw from goals and mainly express negative feelings without taking action.

• People differ biologically and psychologically in how much stress they can tolerate.
• Biological factors include health, heredity, and functioning of the nervous and immune systems.
• Social factors include family relationships, friendships, and school environment.
• Environmental factors include noise, crowding, and major life events or daily hassles.

• Personality (introvert–extrovert) and attitude (optimist–pessimist) strongly affect stress response.
• Optimism supports better coping, health, and resilience under stress.
• Pessimism is linked with avoidance and higher stress impact.
• Flexible coping using multiple strategies and good support systems increases stress tolerance.