Are We Really So Different To The English
By: Jim Brackin
In the biggest survey of its kind a recent survey conducted by Personaliteye.com has measured the personality profiles of over 6,000 people from both sides of the pond. The primary purpose of the research was to see if there was any scientific validity behind many of the popular myths that each group has for the other. The survey is still open so if you want to discover your personality profile, try it out. As the personality profile is based on pictures rather than words, the process takes no longer than 60 seconds. It’s done that way to avoid the obvious language differences so not only will you be adding to the understanding of both cultures, you’ll receive a ‘Myers Briggs’ style personality profile as a thank you for your participation.
The first belief to be researched was the American belief that the Brits are known for their ‘stiff upper lips’ and reserved nature. Or the corresponding British view that Yanks are loud and too familiar.
From a personality perspective these ‘reserved’ or ‘loud’ traits can be measured by the propensity of an individual to have a preference for either Introvert or Extrovert behaviour.
Introverts prefer to be alone and process things internally rather than discussing their opinions with others. They are comfortable with their own company and prefer quiet world of thoughts and ideas. Extroverts on the other hand tend to be more sociable, they like to express themselves and be with people. They’ll have a wide circle of friends, like interaction and expect good customer service.
Before we look at the findings, see if any of the personal experiences of the research groups match with your perception.
The American View.
“Ask most people about their experiences in England and they’ll tell you that one the differences between the British and Americans is the British need for personal space. You know what I mean British people stand far apart from each other when talking, and will rarely touch. It’s unlikely that you’ll strike up a conversation with a British stranger. Whereas Americans would begin talking as soon as eye contact is made. Also, on American trains and buses, the seats face each other, while on British public transport you will always find yourself staring at the back of someone’s head. The British favour silence over conversation and consider it rude to have an expressive, open or loud conversation in public space.â€
The British View.
“I live in a small country village in the Lake District (Cumbria, Northern England) it’s very pretty with mountains, lakes and farms. It is generally very quiet until a coach crammed full of Americans arrive. They are extremely loud, I wonder if perhaps all that time spent in the cities has damaged their hearing. I don’t think they realise how loud they are when they shout to each other. Recently I visited Texas and found that Americans were very friendly. However I noticed that they are not shy in discussing their personal wealth, aspirations and achievement. In England we never discuss our incomes. In fact to ask someone’s income is considered rude and to volunteer it too quickly is seen as boastful.â€
So are the British more Introvert than Americans?
No. When measuring the difference between Introverts and Extroverts the Personalieye.com survey found that there was no significant difference between the two groups. 62% of Americans were Extrovert and 63% of British were also Extrovert. So it seems that any differences there are between the two Nations are not based on personality. Perhaps we have much more in common than we believe. Except the language of course.
Jim Brackin contributes tips, help, advice on popular psychology to variety of magazines like Cosmopolitan, Real, Spirit and Destiny and Women’s Own. As the body language expert for Sky News (UK) he developed Personaliteye a visually based personality profile test that provides free reports on relationships, work, friends and lifestyle.