Depending on the type of curiosity we have, we’ll be better prepared to resolve some conflicts or others. A team of researchers from George Mason University in the United States proposes five dimensions of curiosity:
* Joyful exploration: is the tendency to explore new ideas and concepts for the sheer pleasure and joy of it. People who demonstrate this dimension tend to be open-minded and willing to take risks to reap the rewards of new experiences.
* Sensitivity to shortcomings: this dimension has a different emotional component, more than joy, anxiety appears when trying to manage complex or abstract ideas, solve problems or reduce gaps in knowledge. In this case, you get into the tension of finding out how to solve a problem in an exam or remembering a piece of information that you can’t quite recall, for example.
* Stress tolerance is an important character trait related to curiosity. People who are able to tolerate and cope with stress are more likely to take risks, push boundaries and explore new ideas without fear of failure.
* Social curiosity: is based on an individual’s need to form meaningful connections with others. It’s the inclination to be interested in others, especially those who are different from oneself. This dimension helps people build relationships, acquire knowledge and understand different cultures, beliefs, values and perspectives.
* Thrill-seeking: this is the tendency to seek out activities that make us feel that we’re getting the most out of life. These people are often willing to take risks and push boundaries in order to experience thrills. The curiosity linked to thrill seeking is less about learning or growth and more about experience and the belief that you only live once.
