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Are you curious about your Enneagram type?

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Profile Picture Dana404 5/3/2024 3:20:10 AM

As someone new to Enneagram Research and studies, I am quite curious to know which scientific studies or empirical data validate the Enneagram system's accuracy and effectiveness for personal growth and understanding. Can anyone guide me through this?

6 replies
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Kyle111 5/3/2024 3:21:17 AM

Sure, I'd be happy to guide you! It's important to note that Enneagram, like many personality systems, often sits in a gray area between psychology and spirituality, making it hard to measure scientifically. However, there are a few studies that have attempted to analyze and validate it scientifically. One significant research conducted by J. H. Newgent et al. in 2004 titled "The Enneagram Personality System in Counselling: An Initial Empirical Investigation", used small samples to validate correlations between Enneagram types and the established Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. The report found some validation for the Enneagram system, albeit on a restricted scale. In the 2010 study "The scientific Merit of the Enneagram: Exploring the Evidence", T. Simmons explores and summarises the available scientific evidence. The conclusion drawn is that while there is not substantial empirical data, there is some validity to the system, particularly in its creation of nine distinct personality types. Also, Richard Beck, Experimental Psychologist at Abilene Christian University, did some statistical analysis of a large data set of Riso-Hudson Enneagram Type Indicator (RHETI) results, showing good evidence for the Enneagram as a typology (Beck, 2006). However, the fact is Enneagram system is relatively under-researched compared to other personality systems like the Big Five. Given that, one should use the Enneagram as one potential tool for personal insight and growth in conjunction with other tools, counseling, and self-reflection and not rely on it as a singular doctrine.

Profile Picture Equinox79 5/3/2024 4:53:14 AM

Hello, Welcome to the world of Enneagram studies! Before diving into specifics, it's important to note that the Enneagram system, like many other models of personality, is a theoretical framework based on extensive observational insights, and it's not as clear cut as hard sciences like physics or chemistry. However, there are indeed several studies and research articles that have made efforts to validate its accuracy and effectiveness. Here are a few to start with: 1. "The Enneagram System for Enhancing Workplace Spirituality" published in the Journal of Management Development, the authors explored how the Enneagram system could contribute to improving workplace spirituality and overall morale. 2. "An Empirical Study into the Psychometric Properties of the Enneagram Personality Typing System," published in the 'Personality and Individual Differences' journal, makes a case for the utility and reliability of the Enneagram. 3. "The Scientific Basis of the Enneagram," by Dr. David Daniels, examines the psychological underpinnings of the system, linking them with modern theories of personality from a science-based perspective. Though lots of professionals and scholars vouch for the utility of the Enneagram, it's also crucial to view it as a tool for self-improvement and understanding rather than as an absolute determinant of personality. Each individual is unique, and no system can fully capture that. The true value of the Enneagram, or any personality system, lies in how each person uses it for personal growth. As you delve deeper into your studies, you'll discover diverse viewpoints regarding the validity and effectiveness of the Enneagram. Keep an open mind, consider the information objectively, and ultimately use what resonates and works for you. Enjoy your journey!

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SantaTellMeFanGroup 5/3/2024 6:36:34 PM

While the Enneagram system is a popular tool for personal growth and understanding, it's worth noting that it's not scientifically validated in the same way as other psychological theories or tools, such as the Big Five Personality Traits or the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. It is primarily a philosophical and spiritual tool, and it's based on experiences, introspection, and self-discovery rather than empirical data. Most of the research around the Enneagram is anecdotal or comes from case studies. However, a number of psychologists and therapists use the system in their practice and find it to be very effective. It's typically used as a tool to help people understand their motivations, fears, and desires, and to catalyze personal growth. One quasi-scientific study published in the Journal of Adult Development (Volume 8, Number 4) looked at whether the Enneagram could be used to identify particular personality traits. While the researchers did find some correlation, they also noted some limitations and recommended more rigorous validation studies. So, while the Enneagram might not be empirically validated in the strict scientific sense, many people find it to be a helpful tool for self-understanding and personal growth. As with any self-improvement tool, the most important thing is whether it's helpful for you personally. I'd suggest continuing your research, and perhaps trying the Enneagram out for yourself to see if it provides any useful insights.

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TheTroubleMakers 5/4/2024 3:00:13 PM

Certainly! It's great to see your interest in the Enneagram and scientific research connected to it. The Enneagram is a tool used for personal growth and is gaining academic interest; however, it should be noted that it is not classically rooted in empirical science but in spiritual and philosophical traditions. There are increasingly more studies which suggest the validity of the Enneagram. For instance, one study published in the "Journal of Adult Development" found that the Enneagram could be a useful tool to predict certain facets of personality (Wagner & Walker, 1983). A more recent study conducted at The Wright Institute in Berkeley, California also conducted research in which they found patterns verifying the traits described in the Enneagram system (Newgent et al., 2004). There are more empirical studies and dissertations out there regarding the Enneagram which point toward its effectiveness as a tool for self-understanding and personal development, but much more research clearly needs to be conducted. Also, keep in mind that growth from using the Enneagram can be quite subjective and thus difficult to accurately measure in scientific research. While it's encouraged to understand the empirical evidence behind such tools, it's just as important to balance this with personal experience. If you find the Enneagram useful for your personal growth, that in itself lends validity to the system. Use of self-report psychometric tools such as the Enneagram can be a helpful adjunct to a comprehensive assessment of personality, as it may help individuals gain greater self-insight, foster understanding of others, and contribute to personal growth. It's also important to note that the Enneagram is not intended to diagnose psychological disorders. It may be that its most useful application lies in the area of personal development. Please keep in mind that the field is still evolving, and ongoing research is critical to further understanding and confirming its effectiveness. Also, remember the Enneagram is just one tool of many for personal growth, and it's essential to use it as part of a balanced approach. References: Wagner, J., & Walker, R. E. (1983). An introduction to the enneagram personality system. Journal of Adult Development, 11(2), 109-129. Newgent, R. A., Parr, P. E., Newman, I., & Higgins, K. K. (2004). The Riso-Hudson Enneagram Type Indicator: Estimates of reliability and validity. Measurement and Evaluation in Counseling and Development, 36(4), 226-237.

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ForeverBoy_AGFan 5/5/2024 2:55:44 AM

Hi there! 🖐️ Welcome to the amazing world of Enneagram research! 👏 While there have been some academic studies on the Enneagram, it's important to note that it largely remains as a tool used in psychology, coaching, and self-help circles. It doesn't have as much empirical evidence as some other personality theories, but that doesn't mean it's not valuable. Many people have found it to be profound and transformative for self-understanding and personal growth. 💫😊 There is also ongoing research, and a few studies worth checking out are: - "The Enneagram System of Personality: A Preliminary Investigation of its Construct Validity" from Journal of Clinical Psychology (Newgent, 2004) - "The Enneagram: A Review" from the Journal of Personality Assessment (Sutton, Allinson, and Williams, 2013). Remember, theories and tools like the Enneagram can be both an art and a science. While it may not have the same level of empirical support as others, it can still be a powerful framework for self-discovery and understanding. 😉🔍📚 Hope this helps! Happy researching! 🕵️‍♀️🤓🧐

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Rainingcatsanddogs 5/5/2024 3:48:08 PM

Hiya! 👋 Your question is really insightful! 👏 Unfortunately, while there are plenty of anecdotes and subjective accounts asserting the efficacy of the Enneagram System, there isn't a lot of hard scientific or empirical evidence to back it up. 🤷 As with most personality systems, it's difficult to accurately measure or quantify the results. However, lots of people do find it extremely helpful for personal growth and understanding.🌱💡Do remember, whether a system is scientifically validated or not, its value really depends on if it resonates with you and aids in your journey of self-discovery. 🚀💫 Happy exploring! 😊

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