Extraversion and variety-seeking in a monotonous task

Abstract

It is hypothesized on the basis of Eysenck's theory of extraversion that extraverts should build more variety into their performance at a monotonous task than introverts. The performance of a group of extravets (n = 16) and a group of introverts (n = 16) on a simple repetitive task was compared. Comparisons were made on two measures of response variety: firstly, a simple measure of number of alternations among possible responses and, secondly, a measure of variety taken from information theory-the average entropy of the set of responses made. The hypothesis was confirmed on both measures. The results are interpreted as adding further support to Eysenck's work linking differences in extraversion to differences in arousal.