The 16-personality personality model can be very helpful in offering us insight into ourselves and those around us, which can make it easier to empathize and resolve problems with others.
If you don’t know much about the 16 personalities, then the funny acronyms that people use to describe themselves can seem a bit ridiculous. But despite the strange combinations of letters, the 1-personality model is actually one of the most popular personality models. It is based on the well-known model designed by Katharine Cook Briggs and her daughter Isabel Briggs Myers and has become a popular way for people to learn more about themselves.
16-personality has four dichotomies of opposing traits that represent differences in the way people think and behave. Each one is separate from the others, which creates 16 potential trait combinations. The opposing traits include:
(E) Extroversion vs. (I) Introversion
(N) Intuition vs. (S) Sensing
(T) Thinking vs. (F) Feeling
(P) Perceiving vs. (J) Judging
At first glance, a 16-personality “type” can seem confusing. But once you start to understand each trait, you know that an “ESFP” is actually someone who is outgoing, observant, empathetic, and adaptable, while an “INTJ” tends to be naturally reserved, big-picture-oriented, thoughtful, and organized.
Here’s a very brief comparison between the variations of each trait:
The main difference between these two traits and the people who fall within each is how a person thrives. Individuals with the Extroversion trait feel more energetic and excited when they have the opportunity to engage with lots of other people, while those with the Introversion trait find themselves more comfortable and lively when they’re alone.
People who fall predominantly under Intuition tend to enjoy thinking about complex, potentially hypothetical problems. They often think about the future and see patterns in the world around them. Those who favor Sensing, however, tend to be very present. They often perceive the world through their five senses and take things more literally.
One of the more straightforward traits, Thinking types tend to be more logical and rational. They tend to base decisions on facts rather than feelings and push back against ideas they don’t agree with. Those who are Feeling personalities, though, are more likely to see things as subjective. They are less comfortable with conflict and the tension it often brings; instead, they focus on being empathetic and trying to see things from the other person’s perspective.
Perceiving types are adaptable and spontaneous. They are open to new ideas and possibilities, often able to take things as they come. Those who are predominantly Judging types are less comfortable with change, but are naturally organized and structured. Within their day-to-day activities, they like creating a well-thought-out plan and sticking to it.
The 16-personality model can be very helpful in offering us insight into ourselves and those around us, which can make it easier to empathize and resolve problems with others. Personality assessments allow us to learn more and make an effort toward personal growth.
Want to find out which of the 16 personality types you are? Take the test and find out!