Why Introverts Can Have Trouble In School
Luckily I was pretty good in school. I enjoyed most the subjects and there was no bullying. (Though that may be because I could be a little scary.) But there were times when it was hard. Because I was quieter, and not disruptive, things got pushed to the side.
And that happens a lot for introverts. Whether you are still in school or have your own kids, these are some things to look out for so you can learn and possibly help advocate.
It’s Hard To Ask For Help
No one wants to have to raise their hand, in the middle of a lesson, to ask a question. To actually admit they don’t understand something. To get all the class’s attention on YOU. Because no matter what people say some think there are stupid questions. Some will get annoyed with the interruption or with slowing things down.
Some Classes Rely Heavily On Participation
I understand the idea behind this, so everyone gets a chance to speak and the teacher can hopefully see when someone is struggling. But too many times they automatically assume kids who don’t want to answer are being difficult. Or they put them on the spot and expect a quick response, which we are not known to be good at. Or if we are good in the class they will put more pressure on us to answer so they can just move on
Group Projects
I don’t know about you but these are the bane of my existence. There’s always someone whos too lazy to do everything and expects everyone else to pick up their slack and make sure they get a good grade. Someone who wants to be in charge and micro-manage every little thing. Even trying to take credit for small parts so they try to seem like they did more. (Can still be the same person as the lazy one.) On top of having to coordinate with people with everything, aka talking to everyone more. Being the quieter one so others trying to push you around to do the harder work or just do more.
Being Perceived As Easy
Since we don’t disrupt so much and can usually coast through things we can easily be overlooked when something is wrong. We can be struggling but don’t want to be a problem so we don’t ask for help or get pushed around by others to do their work. And since the teacher is so used to not having to watch us it could literally be weeks before they notice that something is wrong. Too many times when they see grades slipping.
These are things to look out for in your kids and hopefully, you can bring them up to be talked about. Or to find ways, for yourself, to be able to do good in school and advocate for yourself.
