Test Result
Alexithymia
“You view the world through a practical, concrete lens, where emotions often feel like a distant language or physical noise.”
Your Result: Alexithymia
Your responses suggest a high level of Alexithymic traits. For you, emotions are rarely experienced as distinct mental states. Instead, they likely manifest as physical sensations (tension, fatigue, pain) or simply as a confusing "buzz" that you try to ignore.
You likely operate with a strong Externally-Oriented Thinking style. You are practical, logical, and grounded in reality. You prefer to focus on what happened rather than how it felt. While this makes you excellent at handling crises pragmatically, it can leave you feeling disconnected from your own inner life and the emotional needs of others.
"You are not 'unfeeling.' You are simply tuned to a different frequency—one of facts, actions, and physical reality."
Typical behaviors
- Physical over Emotional: If you are anxious, you might genuinely believe you are just having heart palpitations or indigestion.
- The "I don't know" default: When asked how you feel, your mind may go completely blank. It’s not that you are hiding the answer; the answer isn't there.
- Preference for Logic: You likely find emotional conversations draining, confusing, or pointless.
Common pitfalls
Relationship friction
- Loved ones may misinterpret your silence as coldness or indifference. They may feel you "don't care," when in reality, you just don't know how to access the emotional data they want.
- You might miss early warning signs of burnout because you ignore the emotional stress until your body physically crashes.
Gentle steps forward
Reverse-engineering emotions
- Since you can't "feel" the emotion directly, look at the context. "I just lost my wallet. Most people would feel angry. Maybe this tension in my shoulders is anger."
Focus on the body
- Don't force yourself to find "emotional words" yet. Start by simply describing the physical sensation: "My throat is tight." That is a valid and honest description of your state.
Disclaimer and when to seek help
This is not a diagnosis. Alexithymia is a trait, not a disease. However, if this pattern causes you isolation or physical health issues, a therapist (especially one trained in somatic or CBT approaches) can help you build a bridge to your emotions.