These days, the trend of MBTI becomes more popular. It seems like online community—especially in Social Media, love to discuss about MBTI types and how they actually correlate with the behavior of someone. Some MBTI tests are provided online whether it is free or paid. However, what is actually MBTI? Should we really know about it?
MBTI stands for the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. This is the indicator developed by Isabel Briggs Myers and her mother, Katharine Briggs based on the personality types theory of C.G. Jung. In their official website, myersbriggs.org, it is described that each of person has random variation in behavior and it is quietly ordered and consistent. The basic differences are relied on how the individuals prefer to use their perception and judgment. So, basically, we can say that this helps us to be more understand that everybody has their own behavior and there is no way to judge them. Isabel also states that her aim to develop this was to make the insights of type theory that might be accessible by each individuals or group.
MBTI is divided into four indices—as the basic theory comes from Carl Jung’s ideas about perception, judgment, and the attitudes in which these differentiate people. Each of indices are described as follows:
Extraversion-Introversion (E-I)
Susan Cain, in her book titled “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking” gives an illustration of extrovert as “people who will add the life in your party.” It can be stated that extroverts are somehow more talkative and more oriented toward the outer world. Meanwhile, introvert becomes the opposite of extrovert. Susan illustrates people in introvert is people who can enjoy the party but after a moment they wish that they could leave the party as soon as possible. Introverts are more oriented into the inner world and tend to focus on the perception and judgment of concepts and ideas.
Sensing-Intuition (S-N)
These indices, as described in the myersbriggs.org website, are the index that focus on how you perceive or pay attention to the information comes. If you are the person who is more focus on physical reality, something that can be seen, heard, touched, tasted or smelled you might be in the Sensing (S) group. Yet, if you would love to think more on patterns and meaning of the information—more like you love to work with symbols and try to analyze the pattern to predict some possibilities in the future—then you might fall into the Intuition (N) group.
Thinking-Feeling (T-F)
These indices are divided by how you make a decision. You might be in the group of Thinking (T) if you tend to be consistent and logical—regardless of how situation you are in—or you are someone who will not affected by the personal wishes or other people’s wishes, then you might be in this category. However, if you make a decision by thinking of how people would be matter on this and concerned on values or what is the best for the people involved, then you might be a Feeling (F) person.
Judging-Perceiving (J-P)
The last pair discusses about whether you are more structured in your lifestyle (Judging=J) or more flexible in lifestyle. You tend to fall in Judging (J) when you prefer to organize and plan the way you want to live your life. You feel comfortable when everything is set up and go along as what you plan of. Meanwhile, people in Perceiving (P) are they who prefer to be flexible and spontaneous in life. They love to adapt and stay open to new experiences and understand rather than organize it.
Those indices described above are actually related on how you respond, judge, and think about life. Even though these categorize people, it does not mean that this will last for the rest of your life. It helps you to understand people that they have their own perspectives and behavior but it cannot define people as it is. You might be an introvert but love to talk in front of people but you might be an extrovert who loves to talk just as much as you need. You might love to plan what you will do during your holiday vacation but you might also be someone who loves to try new experiences beside the list you make. The point is it just helps you to be more open and welcome each of individual’s behavior but not to define someone. As Isabel Briggs Myers said, “It is up to each person to recognize his or her true preferences.” PRS
