is Shyness a biological problem??

[InvisibleMan]

I have been considered shy, dull and boring for most of my life. It seems when people look at me, I give off this vibe that just screams "introvert=boring".

I have been in various situations throughout my adult life. In college, in the workplace, etc, it seems one thing is constant: my lack of an outgoing nature. I used to think it was the environment, but now I am beginning to believe the problem is with me.

Is shyness biological?? Is there any hope of reversing it and changing that dull, boring image? I dont see how shyness can be a benefit to anyone's life; I think its a curse.

[glennmiller]

it can get better.

[Twice-Shy]

I'm not a professional but I do think there is a biological aspect to shyness. Shy kids, for example, are likely to inherit shyness from a parent. The great thing about today is that the current 'shyness' or 'anxiety' drugs on the market are so sophisticated that the balance out any chemical imbalance in the brain.

[spitzig]

Just because a parent and child is shy doesn't mean it's genetically inherited. I think I picked up some of the shy things my parents DID by watching them.

Genetic and biological are not the same thing. You can't change genes(currently, gene therapy is not successful). You CAN change the biology related to shyness with drugs. I think the psychological aspect is more neccessary to change for most people, anyway.

Also, shyness and introversion are not the same thing. Introversion is enjoying smaller groups of people. Being better friends with less people. Enjoying time alone more. Shyness is being nervous when you are around some set of people, whether those people are new people, people outside of work, or whatever. There are shy extroverts, but I'm guessing the extroversion somewhat fights the shyness.

[glenn miller]

yea that is probebly true.

[Shane]

I agree. There are loads of factors that play a role in someones 'shyness.'

[glenn miller]

it can be different for each person.