Let's clear one thing up: Introverts do not hate small talk because we dislike people. We hate small talk because we hate the barrier it creates between people.
Laurie HelgoeIntroverts are generally more sensitive to low-intensity stimuli - they are mentally alerted to inputs that extroverts may miss.
Laurie HelgoeExtroverts are more attuned to social rewards, so they are more likely to flash a smile for effect. A notable exception are introverts - like me - whom I call "socially accessible" introverts. We have been trained well to smile and nod, which can place a burden on our processing efforts.
Laurie Helgoe