MBTI
MBTI is the acronym for Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator
MBTI is a psychological framework that categorizes individuals into 16 personality types based on how they perceive the world and make decisions. It was developed by Isabel Briggs Myers and her mother, Katharine Cook Briggs, drawing inspiration from Carl Jung’s theory of psychological types.
The Four Myers-Briggs Dichotomies
MBTI is based on four dichotomies, with each person falling on one side of each pair:
- Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I): Extraverts are energized by interacting with people and engaging in activities in the external world, while introverts draw energy from solitude and inner reflection, focusing on thoughts and feelings.
- Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N): Sensing types prefer concrete, practical information and focus on facts and present realities, whereas intuitive types are more drawn to abstract ideas, patterns, and future possibilities.
- Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F): Thinkers make decisions based on logic, objectivity, and consistency, while feelers prioritize personal values and the emotional impact of decisions on themselves and others.
- Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P): Judging individuals favor organization, structure, and decisiveness, whereas perceiving individuals prefer flexibility, spontaneity, and adaptability.
The Resulting Sixteen Myers-Briggs Personality Types
The combination of the four dichotomies creates 16 unique personality types:
Introvert
- INTP (The Logician): Analytical, inventive, and curious individuals who enjoy understanding complex concepts and solving abstract problems.
- INTJ (The Architect): Strategic, independent, and determined individuals who excel at planning and pursuing long-term goals.
- INFP (The Mediator): Idealistic, empathetic, and introspective individuals who value authenticity and seek deep personal connections.
- INFJ (The Advocate): Insightful, compassionate, and visionary people who desire to help others and create positive change.
- ISTP (The Virtuoso): Practical, adaptable, hands-on problem-solvers who enjoy working with tools and systems.
- ISTJ (The Inspector): Reliable, logical, and detail-oriented individuals who take pride in their responsibility and adherence to standards.
- ISFP (The Adventurer): Gentle, creative, and free-spirited individuals who value personal expression and seek beauty in the world around them.
- ISFJ (The Defender): Loyal, practical, and nurturing individuals who prioritize the well-being of their loved ones and their community.
Extrovert
- ENTP (The Debater): Curious, energetic, and innovative problem-solvers who enjoy challenging ideas and debating for intellectual stimulation.
- ENTJ (The Commander): Natural-born leaders who are strategic, assertive, and goal-oriented, thriving in positions of authority.
- ENFP (The Campaigner): Enthusiastic, imaginative, and sociable individuals who excel at inspiring others and exploring new ideas.
- ENFJ (The Protagonist): Charismatic, empathetic, and inspiring people who strive to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
- ESTP (The Entrepreneur): Adventurous, resourceful, and action-oriented people who thrive in dynamic and fast-paced environments.
- ESTJ (The Executive): Practical, organized, and efficient individuals who excel at enforcing rules and managing resources.
- ESFP (The Entertainer): Fun-loving, spontaneous, and energetic individuals who enjoy living in the moment and spreading joy.
- ESFJ (The Caregiver): Warm, supportive, and people-focused individuals who prioritize harmony and take pride in helping others.
Myers-Briggs Applications
Myers-Briggs Type Indicators are widely used in:
- Personal Development: Understanding oneself and improving communication skills.
- Career Planning: Identifying suitable career paths based on personality traits.
- Team Building: Enhancing collaboration and reducing conflict in workplaces.
- Relationships: Improving interpersonal understanding.
While MBTI is popular and widely applied, it is not without criticism, particularly for its lack of empirical support and potential oversimplification of complex personalities.
- Abbreviation: MBTI
- Source: Myers-Briggs
