Overview
Extraversion, also spelled extroversion, is a personality or character trait that psychometric instruments aim to measure around orientation towards stimulation from the external world like social interactions. Low extraversion is also called introversion, which is to say that there’s a spectrum of extroversion than a simple introvert vs. extrovert dichotomy.
High extraversion has been associated with an increased likelihood for substance use, in part because individuals with it are more likely to encounter them by seeking constant social interaction, but also because extraversion has been associated with increased novelty-seeking and risk-taking behaviors. They might also have more sensitivity around rewards and positive reinforcement. Still, other traits like high neuroticism or low conscientiousness tend to be stronger predictors of developing substance use disorders or addictive compulsions.