ARE YOU SHY?

Kluger, Jeffery (2005) Secrets of the shy TIME, 4/4, 51-52.

Individuals who are shy generally find being around other people painful. About half of this behavior is genetic and the other half learned from the daily encounters of individuals. The survival value of shy people is that they can be generally consistent and are not temperamental. They have difficulty reading other people’s non-verbal communication, but can become “idea” people to the group. They can be excellent consultants.

Numerous therapies are used to reduce shyness, but their behavior is rarely changed to become an extrovert. Biochemical, shy folks have an imbalance of serotonin, metabolize natural sugars faster, and suffer anxiety and depression. This can be reduced but not overcome by anti-depressants and a mild tranquilizer that acts as a deinhibitor.

More shy folks are likely to have mental health problems. On the other hand, their lifestyle is one that is very protective and thus they are less likely to be in trouble or harm’s way.