inner-directed personality

The term "inner-directed" describes a personality type characterized by a sense of direction based on one's own values and standards, rather than external norms. This concept was popularized by sociologist David Riesman in his 1950 book, The Lonely Crowd.12

Riesman identified three character types:
* Tradition-directed: Individuals in preindustrial societies whose values are determined by societal traditions.2
* Inner-directed: Individuals in societies with growing populations (e.g., Renaissance Europe) whose values are set early by their immediate family and remain largely unchanged.2
* Other-directed: Individuals in industrialized societies whose behavior is shaped by peer groups and a constant need to conform to group norms.2

The "inner-directed" individual's internal compass guides their actions, distinguishing them from those who rely on external social cues.12