The dynamic relationship between state extraversion and the subjectively perceived situational sociality in continuous time

• Auto- and cross-effects were examined using continuous-time dynamic modeling. • Increases in state extraversion predicted subsequent increases in sociality. • Increases in sociality predicted subsequent decreases in state extraversion. • Cross-lagged effects peaked at 1.5 h between measurements. • Trait extraversion moderated the auto-effect of state extraversion. This study examined the dynamic interplay between extraversion and subjectively perceived sociality of situations using continuous-time dynamic modeling. In a week-long experience sampling study, we collected 4,694 reports of state extraversion and perceived sociality from a sample of university students. Results showed that changes in state extraversion lasted longer and took longer to return to baseline than changes in perceived sociality. Increases in state extraversion predicted subsequent increases in perceived sociality, whereas increases in perceived sociality predicted subsequent decreases in state extraversion. Cross-lagged effects reached their maximum at 1.5 h lag. The negative cross-lagged effect of sociality on state extraversion suggests a compensatory mechanism of temporal reduction of extraverted behavior in an effort to balance the level of social engagement.