Timid people 'more prone to early death' Shyness may help to shorten a person's lifespan, according to findings from a new animal study. Scientists found that rats with a fear of anything new were far more likely to die early from cancer than less timid individuals. Animals identified as "neophobic" had a 60% greater chance of dying at any one time. They also produced a greater surge of stress hormones when placed in an "exploration arena" containing unfamiliar objects. Scientists say an almost identical hormone response is seen in children that are shy, inhibited and fearful. Such behaviour is characteristic...