If you have been scrolling through social media lately, chances are you have come across the word ‘otrovert’. It is being described as someone who stands somewhere between an introvert and an extrovert, yet feels slightly outside both worlds. But is this really a new personality trait, or simply a new name for something we already understand?
Dr Pragya Rashmi, consultant psychologist at Yashoda Hospitals, says the term is more of a pop-psychology label than a clinical category. “‘Otrovert’ describes individuals who feel like perpetual outsiders or emotionally detached from groups, even while comfortable alone or in social settings; they prioritise independence over belonging. This differs from an ambivert, a well-recognised type in psychology, who balances introversion and extroversion by adapting energy levels to situations without a core sense of ‘otherness’. Otrovert is not a formally new personality type but a pop-psychology label emphasising outsider identity, not just energy balance,” she says.
Dr Manjula Rao, consultant clinical psychologist at Apollo Hospitals in Jubilee Hills, echoes this view. She says personality has always been understood as fluid. “Most people are not purely introverted or extroverted. They show a mix of traits depending on mood, environment and life stage. What social media calls an ‘otrovert’ is often just a modern way of describing this middle ground. It is not a new discovery, but a reminder that human personality is flexible and complex,” she notes.
Is there scientific research backing this? Dr Rashmi is clear: “No rigorous clinical research or peer-reviewed studies validate ‘otrovert’ as a distinct personality construct; it’s largely a social media trend. Descriptions draw from anecdotal traits like risk-aversion and preference for one-on-one bonds, but neuroscience supports intro/extroversion via brain activity differences (eg., frontal lobe flow in introverts), with ambiverts as spectrum midpoints — not a separate ‘otrovert’ category.”
Some people who relate to the term describe patterns such as avoiding group rituals, preferring deep one-on-one bonds, sticking strongly to personal routines, or making rational decisions over joining collective fun.
Dr Rashmi points out: “Otroverts show patterns like avoiding group norms or rituals, rigidity in personal routines, selective deep friendships without reciprocity needs, and rational decision-making over fun in collectives. Unlike situational adaptability (common in ambiverts, who shift comfortably), otroverts maintain persistent detachment regardless of context, feeling neutral rather than energised or drained.”
So, should we label ourselves at all? Both experts suggest caution. Dr Manjula advises viewing personality as a guide, not a restriction. “Instead of focusing on labels, it is more helpful to observe how you feel after social interaction. Do you feel energised, drained, or balanced? Self-awareness grows by noticing patterns. Some people enjoy company but still need quiet recovery time. Others prefer solitude but appreciate meaningful conversations. There is no correct formula. Understanding your energy is about listening to your body and emotions rather than fitting into a category,” she says.
Perhaps the real takeaway is this: instead of chasing trending terms, it may be wiser to observe how we feel. Do social interactions energise you or drain you? Do you need quiet time to recharge? Personality awareness should lead to self-acceptance, not pressure to fit into a category that sounds fashionable online.