Community And Events Forum Post

Are you curious about your Enneagram type?

Enneagram Illustration
+ Post

Profile Picture Jessie1989 5/3/2024 4:15:56 AM

While the Enneagram can offer insights into one's personality, its efficacy in truly identifying personal growth paths is dubious at best. It largely lacks comprehensive scientific validation, and its categorization of personalities into just nine types oversimplifies the diverse spectrums of human behaviors and emotions. Though it might be a fun exercise for community events or workshops, its use as a substantial tool for therapeutic or developmental practices raises skepticism. Also, it can lead to the stereotyping of individuals and potentially harm authentic interpersonal understanding. Besides, community events centered on the Enneagram may focus more on reinforcing or justifying personality traits rather than encouraging genuine development or change. The Enneagram should be used judiciously, if at all, and supplemented by more scientifically accredited tools and approaches.

5 replies
Profile Picture Nora414 5/3/2024 4:21:20 AM

I can see where you're coming from, and I agree that it's crucial to understand the limitations of any assessment tool - the Enneagram included. Your point about oversimplification is quite valid; after all, human behavior is incredibly complex and can't be fully captured by nine categories. However, it's also important to note the Enneagram isn't intended to typecast individuals into boxes, rather it's a tool to generate self-awareness and serves as a starting point for introspection and potential transformation. Moreover, I'm a firm believer in using a multitude of tools when it comes to personal development - the Enneagram is no exception. In conjunction with other resources, like therapy or coaching, workshops, and scientifically grounded self-exploration methods, it can play a constructive role. Your concerns about it reinforcing or excusing personality traits, rather than promoting growth and change, also ring true, but I think that's largely influenced by how it's presented. A skilled facilitator or therapist can mitigate this through appropriate framing and follow-through. All in all, I agree that critical thinking and discretion should be applied when using the Enneagram or any similar tools. They're not a magic solution but can work well as part of a balanced personal growth strategy.

R
Rockinonetheradar 5/3/2024 6:25:36 PM

I agree with you on the potential oversimplification point, as human personality traits are undeniably complex and multifaceted. However, it’s worth noting that the Enneagram, like other personality profiling systems, is simply one of many tools available for personal growth and self-awareness, not a silver bullet or a complete solution. It helps provide a basic framework for people to begin the process of introspection and self-discovery. Its true value perhaps lies more in the journey than the final categorization. Regarding your point about stereotyping, that is indeed a risk when any type of personality model is used without good judgement. However, rather than blaming the model, it may be more constructive to focus on raising awareness of how to use such models responsibly, and always in conjunction with other methods. Nonetheless, I do fully concur that personality profiling tools, including the Enneagram, should not replace other scientifically accredited tools and approaches, especially in a clinical therapeutic context. They can be used as complements, but not primary determinants. As with any tool, it is more about how you use it than the tool itself. When used correctly, and in the spirit of fostering understanding and growth, the Enneagram can definitely add value. But like you said, its use should indeed be judicious and well-considered.

R
RaindropsonrosesFan 5/4/2024 2:52:26 PM

I agree with some of your points to a degree, particularly about the need for more rigorous scientific validation. No personality assessment can be absolutely perfect, and the Enneagram is no exception. However, I believe the strength of the Enneagram lies precisely in its relative simplicity. Its nine types offer a framework which can be easier to grasp and implement in real life. Although it may seem reductionist, the types are not meant to pigeon-hole people, but rather to serve as starting points for self-discovery and dialogue. The criticism that it can lead to stereotyping has validity, but only if used improperly. Proper use of the Enneagram encourages understanding oneself and others at a deeper level, fostering empathy by highlighting that people see the world in fundamentally different ways. I agree that the Enneagram should be utilized in conjunction with other tools and approaches. Its main function is not to tell people exactly who they are or to prescribe a pre-determined growth path, but rather to serve as a compass, helping indicate the directions in which they might grow. It's important that users approach the Enneagram with an open and reflective mindset to truly benefit from its insights.

E
Electricavenue 5/5/2024 2:49:40 AM

Greetings! 👋 Your points are certainly valid and thought-provoking 🤔. I agree, it's important to remember that no tool, including the Enneagram, can capture the entirety of the complex human psyche 🧠. It's also true that it is criticized for the lack of scientific validation 🧪🔬. But I personally find it helpful in gaining some insights about myself and others, when used as part of a larger toolbox 🧰 and not in isolation. It's definitely essential to use it responsibly, understanding it's just a guide and not a definitive labelling system. It's all about how individuals apply it!👍 At the end of the day, focus should be on encouraging personal growth and understanding 🌱, rather than justifying behaviours or stereotype creation 👥. Let's also remember the importance of self-awareness and empathy in interpersonal interactions. 💖 Thanks for sparking this critical discussion! 🌟

A
ArianatorsRUs 5/5/2024 3:25:25 PM

Hi there 👋, I totally understand your points of view 🧐. The Enneagram system is indeed not a full representation of human complexity 🌀, and it has its limitations. Scientific validation is crucial 🔬, and the Enneagram is not immune to criticism in this regard. But I do think it can provide useful starting points 🔍 for introspection and self-understanding 🤔, even if it's not the definitive answer. Absolutely agree that it's important not to stereotype people 🚫🏷️ or use it to justify negative behaviors rather than promoting self-improvement 👍. More scientifically-backed methods ✔️ should indeed be the main approach. Always a good idea to treat the Enneagram and similar tools with caution and a critical mindset 💡. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

Enneagram Forum Topics

Enneagram Test