The main reason why people—even introverted people—feel most authentic when they act extraverted is that it feels good

Why is authenticity associated with being and acting extraverted? Exploring the mediating role of positive affect. Joshua A. Wilt,Jessie Sun,Rowan Jacques-Hamilton & Luke D. Smillie. Aug 13 2023. https://doi.org/10.1080/15298868.2023.2246672

Abstract: Extraversion is linked to higher levels of authenticity. Why? Across four studies, we examined positive affect as a potential mediator. In Study 1 (N = 205), we tested our mediation model at the trait level. Then, focusing on the within-person state level: Study 2 (N = 97) involved a 10-week lab-based experience sampling protocol; Study 3 (N = 147) involved a preregistered week-long daily-life experience sampling protocol; and Study 4 (N = 129) involved a two-week naturalistic experience sampling protocol. In all four studies, positive affect explained moderate to high proportions of the effects of extraversion on authenticity (Study 1 = 29%, Study 2 = 38%, Study 3 = 87%, Study 4 = 86%). We discuss several theoretical interpretations.