Otrovert: What is this new personality type and how is it different from introverts, extroverts, and ambiverts?

Not an introvert, but not an extrovert either? How about ambivert? Still a no? There's a new personality type for that.

Dr. Rami Kaminski recently coined the term "otrovert" from the Spanish word "otro," which means "other," and the Latin word "vertere," which means "to turn."

The pioneering American psychiatrist explained that people with this personality type feel like they don't belong to a particular group. They recharge "by thinking their own thoughts," he added, noting that "it's not the group that is draining, but exposure to the group think."

According to The Guardian, Kaminski said he has recognized the personality type in some of his clients, and even in himself.

Otroverts and how they differ from other personality types

Introverts tend to direct energy inward, preferring solitude and quiet environments. Extroverts turn their energy outward, thriving on stimulation and social interaction. Ambiverts balance both sides of the spectrum, switching between being social and solitary, depending on the situation.

Otroverts, however, resist that continuum. Psychologist Wenna Brigaste told PhilSTAR L!fe that they are not conforming to group norms like extroverts often do, nor are they deliberately avoiding social interaction like introverts. They also don’t simply shift between the two depending on what is needed, as ambiverts would. Instead, they move according to authenticity. 

This personality type captures those who feel that they belong in a “gray area” that doesn’t fully fit the aforementioned labels, per the psychology expert.

The so-called “Bluetooth phenomenon” has become a way of explaining this behavior. According to Brigaste, just as a Bluetooth device becomes visible only when a compatible device is nearby, otroverts connect socially only when they feel emotionally safe, attuned, or understood. 

“Otroverts are unapologetically authentic,” she said, pointing out that they are independent and intentional about how they engage with others. They represent a break from conformity as they “tend to enjoy social interactions and alone time equally, but only when it feels right."

Unlike introverts, extroverts, and even ambiverts, otroverts are defined less by their energy source and more by their refusal to be boxed into one category.

Strengths and weaknesses

In an interview with L!fe, psychologist Lucille Lozano emphasized that the term "otrovert" is still not a scientifically recognized term in the field. "The self-coined term often relects a desire to describe a more fluid or complex personality that doesn't fit neatly into traditional labels."

She described otroverts as "emotionally intuitive individuals who often sense the emotional atmosphere of a room or relationship with ease."

"This deep sensitivity to emotional cues reflects a high level of emotional intelligence and empathy," she said.

Among their defining strengths is their ability to form selective but strong connections. "Rather than spreading their energy across many social circles, they invest deeply in a few meaningful relationships. This preference for depth over breadth is closely tied to their desire for authenticity. They seek emotionally honest and congruent interactions that contribute to psychological well-being and relational fulfillment," the psychologist explained.

Otroverts are also known for being adaptable and self-aware. "It's amazing how they can shift between being reserved and socially engaged depending on how emotionally safe or aligned they feel in a particular setting."

Lozano, however, noted that such traits can present challenges, too.

"Because their engagement is so context-dependent, otroverts may come across as hard to read," she noted. "Their emotionally guarded nature, while protective, may be misinterpreted as aloofness or emotional unavailability, particularly in fast-paced or surface-level environments."

Their aversion to superficiality, per Lozano, can further isolate them.

"All these traits combined make them unique, deeply relational individuals in a world that often values consistency over connection," she said.

How to deal with otroverts

Since otroverts connect with others on their own terms, dealing with them requires a measure of patience and understanding. 

“Remember that they are free-spirited individuals who have different ways of dealing with social realities,” Brigaste said.

Pressuring them into social settings that feel superficial or forced could backfire, Lozano added. It's best to let them choose when and how they want to connect.

“Otroverts may appear open and expressive one day and withdrawn the next. Don’t take this personally,” she continued. “It’s not rejection, but a reflection of their need for emotional clarity and recharge.” 

The key is to offer genuine, meaningful interactions, and to respect their rhythm rather than interpret it as moodiness. "Their need for authenticity and emotional alignment isn’t about drama—it’s part of their self-protection and desire for meaningful relationships," Lozano stressed. "If you can honor that, otroverts can become some of the most loyal, insightful, and emotionally present people in your life."