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In the world of psychology, a new term has been coined that challenges the traditional understanding of personality types. Dr. Rami Kaminski, a New York psychiatrist, introduced the term "Otrovert" in 2013, referring to individuals who are averse to communing with groups. This term, similar to Groucho Marx's famous quote about not wanting to join a club that would have him as a member, has gained attention in recent years.
The concept of personality types goes back to the ancients, with Hippocrates introducing the four temperaments and astrology giving us the twelve sun signs. Fast forward to the modern era, and we have the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), a compendium of psychiatric conditions that people may find themselves in. The DSM, first published in 1952, has substantially increased the number of diagnoses over the years. However, the DSM-5, published in 2013, substantially decreased the number of conditions but broadened its criteria, making it easier to get a diagnosis.
The term "Otrovert" is not a diagnostic label in the traditional sense. Instead, it describes characteristics such as being an original thinker, valuing deep connections, and preferring authenticity over conformity. The opposite of "anally retentive," a colloquial term for someone who is organized, meticulous, and rigid, is "anally expulsive," which describes someone who is disorganized, late, and generally disordered. It's possible that, in reading about Otroverts, one may find themselves identifying as one.
However, it's important to note that self-diagnosis, especially through social networks like TikTok, can be misleading. Millennials and Gen Z's often diagnose themselves using these platforms, but they simplify information and may lead to incorrect diagnoses more than 80% of the time. Real life-impairing psychiatric conditions require highly trained professionals to diagnose and treat them.
The author of this piece, Aaron, identifies as someone who does not identify with any specific personality type or diagnosis. This reflects Jung's argument that exploring less developed capacities is beneficial for personal growth. Mental health, after all, is a broad spectrum of human experience, not an either/or thing.
Waiting lists for professional help and the cost of private care can be barriers for some individuals. It's crucial that we continue to discuss and raise awareness about mental health, and terms like Otrovert provide a starting point for these conversations. Whether you identify as an Otrovert or not, it's essential to remember that everyone has unique qualities and experiences that make them who they are.
