What Are the Myers Briggs Personality Types

Understanding the 16 Myers-Briggs Personality Types

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) categorizes individuals into 16 distinct personality types based on four key dimensions of personality. Each type is represented by a four-letter code that reflects a person's preferences in how they perceive the world and make decisions.

These personality types provide a framework for understanding human behavior, communication styles, and interpersonal dynamics. While everyone is unique, the MBTI system helps identify common patterns in how people approach life, work, and relationships.

The Four Dimensions of Personality

Before exploring the 16 types, it's important to understand the four dimensions that form the foundation of the MBTI system:

Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I)

This dimension describes where people get their energy. Extraverts tend to be energized by social interaction and external stimulation, while Introverts recharge through solitude and quiet reflection.

Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N)

This dimension reflects how people prefer to take in information. Sensors focus on concrete details and practical realities, while Intuitives look for patterns, possibilities, and future implications.

Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F)

This dimension describes how people make decisions. Thinkers prioritize logic, objectivity, and consistency, while Feelers consider values, harmony, and the impact on people.

Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P)

This dimension relates to how people approach the outside world. Judging types prefer structure, planning, and closure, while Perceiving types are more flexible, spontaneous, and open to new information.

The 16 MBTI Personality Types

Here's an overview of each of the 16 Myers-Briggs personality types, organized by their temperament groups:

Analyst Types (NT Temperament)

INTJ - The Architect

Strategic, logical, and independent thinkers who excel at developing complex systems and long-term plans. They value knowledge, competence, and efficiency.

INTP - The Logician

Innovative, curious, and theoretical problem-solvers who love exploring ideas and possibilities. They prize intellectual freedom and precision.

ENTJ - The Commander

Charismatic, decisive leaders who excel at organizing people and resources to achieve goals. They are natural strategists and change agents.

ENTP - The Debater

Quick-witted, entrepreneurial, and resourceful innovators who enjoy intellectual challenges and exploring new concepts. They excel at seeing possibilities.

Diplomat Types (NF Temperament)

INFJ - The Advocate

Idealistic, insightful, and principled individuals who work tirelessly for their values and to help others. They seek meaning and connection in all things.

INFP - The Mediator

Empathic, creative, and values-driven individuals who seek authenticity and harmony. They are guided by their strong personal ethics.

ENFJ - The Protagonist

Charismatic, inspiring, and organized leaders who are skilled at motivating others toward shared goals. They value harmony and personal growth.

ENFP - The Campaigner

Enthusiastic, creative, and sociable free spirits who see life as full of possibilities. They connect with others through warmth and optimism.

Sentinel Types (SJ Temperament)

ISTJ - The Logistician

Practical, responsible, and thorough individuals who value tradition, order, and reliability. They are the backbone of many organizations.

ISFJ - The Defender

Supportive, reliable, and warm protectors who are committed to their responsibilities and to taking care of others.

ESTJ - The Executive

Efficient, outgoing, and traditional organizers who excel at managing people and projects to achieve concrete results.

ESFJ - The Consul

Caring, sociable, and popular helpers who are attuned to others' emotional needs and work to create harmony in their communities.

Explorer Types (SP Temperament)

ISTP - The Virtuoso

Flexible, logical, and spontaneous problem-solvers who excel in crises and enjoy understanding how things work through hands-on experience.

ISFP - The Adventurer

Gentle, sensitive, and artistic individuals who live in the present moment and enjoy exploring the world through their senses.

ESTP - The Entrepreneur

Energetic, perceptive, and bold risk-takers who thrive on action and immediate results. They are excellent at thinking on their feet.

ESFP - The Entertainer

Spontaneous, enthusiastic, and sociable performers who love being the center of attention and bringing joy to others.

Applications of Understanding Personality Types

Personal Development

Understanding your personality type can help you recognize your natural strengths, potential blind spots, and areas for growth.

Career Choices

Different personality types tend to thrive in different work environments and career paths that align with their natural preferences.

Relationships

Knowing personality types can improve communication and understanding in personal and professional relationships.

Team Building

Organizations use MBTI to build more effective teams by understanding how different types complement each other.

Important Considerations

While the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator is a valuable tool for self-discovery and understanding others, it's important to remember:

All personality types have unique strengths and potential challenges
No type is "better" than another - each brings valuable perspectives
People can develop skills outside their natural preferences
The MBTI describes preferences, not abilities or limitations
Personality is complex, and the MBTI is just one framework among many

If you haven't discovered your own MBTI type yet, consider taking our Free Myers Briggs Personality Test to learn more about yourself and how you relate to these 16 personality types.