What generally happens to the trait of extroversion as people age?

As people age, the trait of extroversion typically decreases slightly. Research in developmental psychology indicates that many individuals experience a shift in personality traits as they move through different life stages. In particular, older adults often report lower levels of extroversion, which may manifest as reduced sociability and a preference for solitary activities over large social gatherings.

This decline in extroversion can be associated with changes in priorities and lifestyle, such as increased focus on family and close friends rather than broader social networks. As individuals mature, they may find that they derive more satisfaction from meaningful, intimate relationships rather than from frequent social interactions with a variety of people.

The concept of personality stability versus change suggests that while certain characteristics remain stable throughout life, extroversion may not be one of those traits that remain static. Understanding these developmental trends helps in recognizing the variety of experiences and shifts that can occur as individuals navigate different life phases.