The rise of the ‘otrovert’ 

September 29, 2025

How do you describe yourself in social settings? For years, the popular choices have been introvert, extrovert, or the more balanced ambivert. Yet, for many, none of these labels fully capture their personality. A new term is now finding its way into conversations: the otrovert.

The word, sometimes mispronounced as “outrovert,” was coined by American psychiatrist Dr Rami Kaminski. It comes from the Spanish word otro, meaning “other.” In an essay for New Scientist, Dr Kaminski explained how, as a child in the Scouts, he realised he was different. While his peers seemed moved by the group pledge, he felt nothing. That moment revealed to him that he did not share the same sense of communal belonging.

According to Dr Kaminski, otroverts are people who do not feel compelled to merge their identity with groups. “We are all born as otroverts, before the cultural conditioning of childhood cements our affiliations,” he wrote. Otroverts are not drained by groups in the way introverts are; instead, they resist the pressures of groupthink. They draw energy from their own thoughts and prefer meaningful one-on-one interactions over large gatherings.

Psychologically, otroverts tend to avoid peer pressure, do not experience FOMO, and do not seek external validation. They are usually soft spoken, polite, and helpful. While they may dislike small talk or wide social circles, they are capable of deep and authentic connections. At work, team settings can feel draining, leading them to prefer self-employment or leadership roles. In relationships, they often build strong, meaningful bonds.

Dr Kaminski suggests that people may identify as otroverts if they answer positively to statements such as: being truly close to very few people, considering thinking itself an activity, enjoying solitude as the best company, or developing a personal philosophy rather than adopting one from others.

The concept also highlights the challenges otroverts face. In a culture that places high value on sociability and group belonging, they may be misunderstood. Preferring solitude is often seen as unusual, and well-meaning friends may try to draw them into social activities. Yet, for otroverts, fulfilment lies in observing rather than joining in.

Dr Kaminski argues that this trait has its strengths. Writing in The Guardian, he said otroverts are well placed to navigate a divided world because they see people as individuals, not faceless members of groups. This perspective, he suggests, allows them to engage with others free from prejudice, offering a valuable counterbalance in a time marked by social fragmentation.