Social avoidance personality style

People with features of this personality style tend to shy away from social stimulation and are usually reluctant to socialise or mix with others at parties or other social gatherings. They may appear shy or distant around people, especially those they have not previously met. Features of this personality style include a preference for solitude and solitary activities. There is the danger that, when stressed or upset, people with features of this type of personality style completely withdraw from social activity and thus hinder the likelihood of deriving support from others, including seeking professional help.

Key features of the Social Avoidant Personality Style (derived from our Temperament and Personality Questionnaire):

• Dislikes social stimulation or mixing with others.

• Avoids parties and other social gatherings.

• Reserved in social situations.

• Quiet around others.

• Holds back on meeting new people.

• Prefers own company to that of others.

High levels of anxiety and self-criticism in social situations may characterise this personality style. There may also be a history of early adverse experiences surrounding social situations, such as being bulled or humiliated at school or teased by siblings at home. People with features of this personality style may have organised their lives to exclude or minimise interaction with others. For example, by choosing occupations that require solitary rather than team activities, and maintaining a small group of friends and acquaintances who are unlikely to threaten or make demands on their time.