The Gift of Not Belonging

Auteur

DR. RAMI KAMINSKI, MD, is a renowned psychiatrist and the founder and director of the Institute for Integrative Psychiatry in New York City.  A true pioneer in the psychiatric field, Dr. Kaminski has served in every facet of psychiatry—from academic and research work, through clinical, government, and public service. As the medical director for operations and commissioner liaison to families at the New York State Office of Mental Health, Dr. Kaminski created and promoted many award-winning community programs including the famed Second Chance Program, and was one of the major organizers of the mental health response to the 9/11 attack on New York City.
 
In 2023, Dr. Kaminski founded The Otherness Institute to research and raise awareness about how otroverts see the world, and has developed a proprietary method called the Otherness Scale, which allows for a scientifically controlled and measurable way to identify traits of otherness and otroversion.   Dr. Kaminski hold eleven international patents in recognition of his scientific work, has given numerous lectures in public and academic forums in the United States and around the world, and is the recipient of many awards.
 

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The first book to explore the otrovert personality – someone who feels like an outsider in any group, regardless of its members - revealing all the advantages of being an otrovert and ways otroverts contribute to the world.

Were you the kid who never wanted to join after school clubs or go to sleepaway camp? Do you loathe parties but love spending time with close friends one-on-one? Are you allergic to teamwork but thrive creatively and professionally when working alone? Do you struggle to fit in? If so, you are likely an otrovert. 

Otroverts are not natural born joiners. Unlike introverts, they are not shy or quiet, and do not quickly tire from one-on-one socializing. Yet in large groups they feel uncomfortable, alienated, and alone.

Unlike those who have been excluded or marginalized, otroverts are embraced and often quite popular.  Yet they never feel like they truly belong.
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In a culture that puts a premium on joining, many otroverts have gone through life feeling misunderstood. But, contrary to what we have been taught, argues psychiatrist Rami Kaminski, belonging is not a requirement for living a rich, rewarding life. Quite the opposite. 

When you have no affinity for a particular group, your self-worth is not conditioned on the group’s approval. You can enjoy deep connection in individual relationships without the obligation to follow the rules the group follows, or care about what the group cares about. Best of all, you know of no other way to think or be, other than for yourself.

The Gift of Not Belonging urges otroverts to embrace their unique gifts, and equips them with the knowledge and tools to thrive in a communal world.