A 12 year old introverted kid Mufiz, studying in 7th grade says “I often feel invisible in class”.
In his classroom, Mufiz is often labeled as "the one who lives in his own world" or "the silent kid." His preference for solitude has unfortunately earned him the title of "the invisible kid," leading to frequently getting ignored by both classmates and teachers. Despite his quiet nature, Mufiz's unique qualities and potential often go unnoticed in the bustling school environment.
Do schools focus too much on socialization? From childhood, kids explore their identities first at home and then at school. The majority of children (around 60%) are extroverts, leaving the remaining 40% as introverts who talk less and socialize minimally. Children's behavior is largely shaped at home. Similarly, Mufiz has been quiet since childhood and doesn't speak much even at home. But how does his behavior affect him at school, both negatively and positively?
Mufiz shares that in class, his classmates often eagerly raise their hands to answer questions and participate, while he, despite knowing the answers, holds back due to shyness.
Talking to a few of his classmates, they remarked, “woh apne duniya mein rehta hai” (he lives in his own world). This perception contributes to his isolation, making it harder for Mufiz to connect with others and for his talents to be recognized.
Society tends to celebrate extroverted individuals, especially in team projects, public speaking, and large group activities. These settings often provide more opportunities for extroverts to become leaders and gain recognition. Schools, too, largely focus on group activities, speaking, and socialization, areas in which introverts may not fit as comfortably. While these skills are important, the approach to building them could be more inclusive. Mufiz shared, “In many classes, teachers don’t pay attention to us but instead the kids who answer more or participate more, I feel invisible many times”.
Mufiz also shares that he has fewer friends in his class. While he receives some support from many of his classmates, very few of them are his close friends. He frequently gets teased for not being part of a large social group, a situation he has grown accustomed to. However, Mufiz views his solitary nature as beneficial in some ways, as it allows him more time to focus on his studies - a task he genuinely enjoys and excels at.
During breaks and free periods, while other kids take the opportunity to play and socialize, Mufiz can often be found with his head buried in a book, diligently working on his homework. He prides himself on completing assignments well before their deadlines, a habit that not only reflects his dedication but also his strong sense of responsibility. While playing and socializing are indeed essential aspects of school life, Mufiz’s preference for using his free time to study sets him apart.
To better support students like Mufiz, schools could implement strategies that recognize and nurture the strengths of introverted students. This might include more individual projects, quieter workspaces, and opportunities for written rather than spoken participation. Encouraging teachers to actively engage with quieter students and providing platforms where they can express themselves comfortably can help ensure that all students have the chance to shine.
Mufiz's situation highlights a broader issue within the school environment: the tendency to prioritize and celebrate extroverted behaviors while undervaluing the strengths of quieter, more introverted students. His experience raises important questions about how schools can create a more inclusive environment that recognizes and supports the diverse ways students engage and excel. By providing opportunities for quieter students to shine and ensuring that their contributions are acknowledged, schools can help all students, including those like Mufiz, reach their full potential.
Lastly, Mufiz says “I’m not really afraid of being who I am, I do what I enjoy.” This is the kind of self-appreciation that every individual should have, though Mufiz does not get noticed for his qualities and potential, he himself is aware of his strengths.
Written by Ankita Patil
Ankita wrote this article as a participant of the Media-Makers Fellowship's July'24 cohort.
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