You don't have to be disadvantaged to need care and nurturing. - lris

I was not aware that introverts were a disadvantaged group. - bevedog

Compared to, say, gays, native Americans, Muslims (in the U.S.), blacks, etc.? No, of course not. But when it comes to office design (increasingly), politics, top managerial positions, things like that? Maybe so. [Far as I know, extraversion was never suggested as a candidate for DSM inclusion as a "mental illness" indicator.] - Walt Crawford

I sort of understand where you are coming from, but I tend to put "introversion" in a category closer to having allergies or going bald early or something like that, where it's just one of those inconveniences people face. For example, my younger son is an extrovert. Is he "disadvantaged" because he can't have friends over to play all the time? - bevedog

The differences? Your younger son's personality isn't regarded as a defect (and possible precursor to mental illness). He won't be treated as though there's something wrong with him. Most office designs will favor his personality. Bars, restaurants, etc., will cater to him. (Hey! Group tables! Livelier surfaces! Yay!) Do I consider introversion a serious disadvantage? No, but relative to extraversion as the norm/preferred state, it's certainly not an advantage. - Walt Crawford

I wasnt aware introversion was regarded as a defect or mental illness. In my short career in management I have seen far more disciplinary issues result from extroverted tendencies than introverted ones). The US culture at this point in time does create a preferential environment for extroverts in social settings, though. - ωαřмaiden ❤Marrit Woman❤

A bar/restaurant that catered to introverts would be hilarious. Or it would be the McDonald's drive through. - bevedog

Ah well, I'm sorry I said anything. I should have let Iris's wise comment stand alone. - bevedog