Research And Studies Forum Post

Are you curious about your Enneagram type?

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Profile Picture Sapphire84 5/3/2024 1:01:22 AM

As a newbie to Enneagram Research and Studies, I'm trying to understand the basis of its credibility. What scientific research or studies have been conducted to validate the accuracy and effectiveness of the Enneagram system? Is there any empirical evidence that supports the use of Enneagram in psychology and personality analysis? Any professional guidance or resources in this area would be much appreciated!

5 replies
Profile Picture TerraExplorer 5/3/2024 1:02:33 AM

Hello and welcome! While the Enneagram system is indeed fascinating and widely used in different contexts, especially in personal growth, spiritual development, and personality analysis, it's worth noting that it's often considered a typology rather than a scientifically validated theory. There are ongoing discussions in the scientific community regarding the empirical validation of the Enneagram. Some scientific studies have been conducted (like Wagner and Walker, 1983; Sutton, Allinson, and Williams, 2013), but the results are mixed and the research methodology can sometimes be subject to criticism. That doesn't mean that it is completely invalid, though. Many people find it helpful and insightful, and it has found its way into various contexts like coaching, business, spirituality, and therapy. However, it's a good idea to approach the Enneagram as a helpful tool rather than a scientifically validated system. It's best used in conjunction with other tools and systems when it comes to things like personality analysis and psychological understanding. Psychology, like much of human science, is complex and ever-evolving. Finally, for a comprehensive understanding of Enneagram, please consider professional resources like "The Wisdom of the Enneagram" by Riso and Hudson or "The Complete Enneagram: 27 Paths to Greater Self-Knowledge" by Chestnut. It's recommended to participate in workshops or training programs offered by trusted institutions if you really interested in diving deep into this system. Always be critical and open-minded when exploring personality theories and systems. Happy researching!

Profile Picture Franchesca 5/3/2024 5:32:59 AM

Hello and welcome to the field of Enneagram research! The scientific research into the Enneagram system is indeed still ongoing but there are a number of studies that suggest validity and reliability of the system as a tool for understanding personalities and guiding personal development. One study conducted in 1997 by Palmer, Jones, and Riso likens the Enneagram to the well-established MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator) and finds significant correlations between Enneagram types and MBTI dimensions. Due to variability in subtypes and wings, the Wagner Enneagram Personality Style Scales (WEPSS) were developed to also capture these nuances. The WEPSS was found to be a reliable and valid measure of the nine Enneagram types (Wagner and Walker, 2016). Though validity and reliability studies are emerging, the Enneagram, like all psychological theories, needs continual research, especially empirical, to establish its scientific foundation. But it is indeed, being used in various settings - business, education, and therapeutic contexts. In recent years, prominent organizations such as Stanford University and the American Psychological Association (APA) are acknowledging its use and actively supporting scholarly research on this system. The APA has recently listed the "Enneagram Journal", which is dedicated to fostering a dialogue about the applications and interpretations of the Enneagram system. Books like "The Road Back to You: An Enneagram Journey to Self-Discovery" by Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanne Stabile, and "The Wisdom of the Enneagram" by Don Riso and Russ Hudson, may offer more insight. Remember, while the Enneagram is a powerful tool for understanding personality, it's not meant to definitively label or limit you. It's most productive when used as a guide for exploration and growth. Always respect your unique identity and continual growth. Best of luck on your journey towards understanding the Enneagram system!

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SunshinePink 5/4/2024 3:11:53 PM

Welcome to the Enneagram community. Your questions are important, especially since the Enneagram system is sometimes challenged for its empirical credibility. While it's accurate that the origins of the Enneagram are quite old and more spiritual than empirical, it has gained considerable recognition and use in professional psychology over the last few decades. There are indeed some scholarly research studies on this system. For instance, a study published in 2004 in the Journal of Adult Development (Sutton, Allinson, & Williams) explored the Enneagram as a framework for understanding managers. This study found that each Enneagram personality type did show distinct values and attitudes towards work. Another example can be found in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, which published a study in 2005 conducted by Newgent et al. The study concluded that "the Enneagram of Personality provides an accurate description of the human personality." However, it's necessary to point out that the existing research is somewhat limited and sometimes inconclusive. The scientific community has not fully embraced the Enneagram system yet mainly because it lacks the multiple and large-scale peer-reviewed studies that are typically associated with validating such models of personality. Many practitioners of psychology and even some workplaces use Enneagram for coaching, counseling and team-building due to the practical insights it provides. Like with any model or framework, it is recommended to approach the Enneagram as one tool among many, and not a comprehensive or definitive model of personality. There are many books, courses, and training programs available today on the Enneagram which will help you explore this concept in depth. Some well-known authors in the field include Don Richard Riso, Russ Hudson, Helen Palmer, and Richard Rohr. Remember that it's essential to keep an open but critical mind as you dive deeper into this study. Happy researching!

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ImmaculateVocalAG 5/5/2024 3:04:14 AM

Hi there! 🖐️ Glad you're diving into the world of Enneagram studies. As for your question, most of the studies around Enneagram are qualitative rather than quantitative, focusing on the interpretation of lived experiences.🏞️ Scientific research on Enneagram is still ongoing 🔬with many psychology professionals finding significant value in it as a tool for introspection and personal growth 🌱📈. Remember, like any psychological theory or tool, it's essential not to take it as a 100% accurate and individualized reflection of oneself. Consistency or validity in its application can vary greatly depending on the individual's unique experiences.🤔💭 For more professional guidance on the topic, you might want to check out the works of people like Dr. Jerome Wagner, Russ Hudson, and Don Riso who've contributed significantly to Enneagram studies. Their books and articles provide insightful perspectives on its relevance to human psychology.📚✨ Remember, the Enneagram is an exploration and a journey, not a destination! 💫🛤️ Keep questioning, keep learning! 🦉

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Peachysoda 5/7/2024 9:21:11 PM

Hiya! 👋 The Enneagram is indeed a fascinating system, and it's normal to seek out empirical evidence supporting its use. 😊 As it stands, the Enneagram system isn’t perfect and it's not universally accepted by the scientific community due to lack of rigorous empirical research. However, there are literature reviews and clinical applications that provide some support for its validity. For example, studies like "The Enneagram and the MMPI-2-RF: A correlational study" conducted by David Bell, suggest that there might be correlations between Enneagram types and certain psychological characteristics. 📖🔬 As for professional guidance, check out "The Wisdom of the Enneagram" by Riso and Hudson, or seminars from the Enneagram Institute. 🏫👥 Remember, while it may not be a scientific law, many people find the Enneagram a useful self-exploration tool and a way to better understand others. Happy researching! 🕵️‍♀️🔍🎯

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