Work Efficiency and Personality: A Comparison of Introverted and Extraverted Subjects Exposed to Conditions of Distraction and Distortion of Stimulus in a Learning Task

Abstract

An experimental investigation is described in which personality characteristics are related to efficiency of work output. It appears that introverted subjects function less efficiently in the presence of distractions, while extraverted subjects show actual improvement in the presence of distractions. Other differences in the mode of reaction of these two groups are seen in the range and duration of exploratory movements made to improve the artificially distorted character of the stimulus: the movements of the introverts are few and slow, compared with the extravagant movements of the extraverts. It is suggested that this difference in response merits consideration in placement by personnel selection, and may result in greater contentment at work as well as in improved work efficiency.