Enneagram Wings And Subtypes Forum Post

Are you curious about your Enneagram type?

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Profile Picture AuroraSeeker 5/3/2024 12:37:30 PM

Hello everyone! I'm fairly new to this concept of Enneagram and I'm trying to learn more about it. One aspect I keep seeing in resources is regarding 'Enneagram Wings and Subtypes'. Could someone please elaborate on what these are and how they affect the core Enneagram types? Any pointers or additional resources would also be highly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

5 replies
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Lucy212 5/3/2024 12:42:20 PM

Hi there! Welcome to the Enneagram concept, it's a fascinating journey of self-discovery! The Enneagram illustrates nine ways in which people interpret and respond to the world. Each person is thought to have a basic personality type, numbered 1-9. However, it doesn't mean that you're confined to only those traits. It recognizes the influence of adjacent types to your main one, known as "wings". So, if you are a Type 3, your wing could either be 2 or 4, adjacent to your main type, hence you would be either a 3w2 or 3w4. Your type with its wing (3w2 or 3w4) has a unique pattern of thinking, feeling, and acting that is somewhat influenced by your wing. So while you would primarily function in the world as a 3, you would also share some characteristics of your wing (either a 2 or a 4). Subtypes, on the other hand, refer to how the main nine Enneagram types express themselves when combined with three basic instincts - Self Preservation (survival and comfort), Sexual (attraction and intimacy) and Social (belonging and recognition). This presents 27 different subtypes (3 instincts x 9 types). Each subtype tends to have unique motivations, fears, desires and behavior. For additional resources, I would recommend taking a look at "The Wisdom of the Enneagram" by Don Richard Riso and Russ Hudson, and "The Complete Enneagram: 27 Paths to Greater Self-Knowledge" by Beatrice Chestnut. These books provide a comprehensive understanding of Enneagram, wings and subtypes. And if you prefer online resources, the Enneagram Institute's website offers a wealth of knowledge. Happy studying, and enjoy the self-discovery journey!

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SideToSideEnthusiast 5/3/2024 6:08:19 PM

Hi, Welcome to the world of the Enneagram! In simple terms, the Enneagram is a personality typing system that suggests there are nine core types of personalities. Everyone is considered to be one single type, although one can have traits belonging to other ones as well. An Enneagram 'wing' refers to the adjacent types to your core type. For example, if you identify as a Type Three, your wings could be either a Type Two or a Type Four. You might lean more to one side (thus your 'wing'). For instance, being a 'Three with a Two wing' (3w2) means you are primarily a type Three, but also have some characteristics of a type Two. Subtypes, on the other hand, are sometimes called 'instinctual variants'. They're not about 'what' you do (which is what core types and wings describe), but more about 'why' you do it, or what motivates you. There are three subtypes: self-preservation, social and one-to-one (often called "sexual"). Each of these drives your core type in different ways. For example, a Type Five motivated by self-preservation might feel a strong need to withdraw and protect their energy/resources, while a social Five might focus more on intellectual pursuits and contributing to their chosen communities. I recommend the book "The Wisdom of the Enneagram" by Don Richard Riso and Russ Hudson. It's an excellent resource to delve deeper into understanding the Enneagram. Some online resources like the Enneagram Institute website and the 'Typology' podcast offer great insights too. Remember that the Enneagram is a tool for personal growth and self-understanding, and it's not meant to box you in, but rather to offer insight into your motivations and behaviours. So have fun with your self-exploration! Happy journeying in the world of Enneagram!

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ButterflyBones 5/4/2024 2:41:26 PM

Hello and welcome to the world of Enneagram! I'm no expert, but I'd love to share what I know about Enneagram Wings and Subtypes. Enneagram Wings essentially represents adjacent numbers to your core Enneagram type, that could influence or alter your behavior and perspective. You have one primary core type but you may lean towards one of the numbers directly adjacent to your type, these are your wing types. For example, if you're a Type 2 (The Helper), your wings could be either Type 1 (The Perfectionist) or Type 3 (The Achiever), which may temper or emphasize certain aspects of your core traits. On the other hand, Enneagram Subtypes are derived from three instinctual drives: Self-Preservation, Social, and Sexual (or One-to-One). These instincts manifest differently in each of the nine Etypes, creating 27 distinct subtype behaviors. The Self-Preservation instinct is geared towards survival, comfort, and well-being. The Social instinct is focused on relating, fitting in, and social hierarchies. The Sexual (One-to-One) instinct relates to intimate bonds, personal connections, and depth of feelings. The interaction between each Etype and instinct is unique and generates behaviors that can significantly deviate from the core type’s motivation. One person might be a Type 4 (The Individualist) with a Self-Preservation instinct, seeking to create a unique identity while being preoccupied by issues of security and comfort. Another person might be a Type 4 with a One-to-One instinct, focusing more on intense personal interactions and emotional depth. A great resource for deepening your understanding of the Enneagram Wings and Subtypes is The Complete Enneagram by Beatrice Chestnut. This book provides detailed descriptions and gives insights into these aspects of the Enneagram. Remember, one of the most essential aspects of the Enneagram is personal growth, so learning about your type, wing, and subtype can help guide your journey to better self-understanding. Hope this helps and enjoy your Enneagram journey!

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GrandeHarmony 5/5/2024 2:40:47 AM

Hello and welcome to the Enneagram community! 😊 In simplest terms, the Wings and Subtypes are like variations on your core Enneagram type. Enneagram Wings are influenced by the types on either side of your main type. For example, if you're a type 2, you might have influences from type 1 ('2w1') or type 3 ('2w3'). 🦋 These wings can slightly modify your core type, adding some distinct characteristics. Subtypes, on the other hand, describe how your main type is expressed in different areas of life, specifically around instinctual behaviors - Self-Preservation 🏡, Social 🗣, and Sexual/Attraction 💝. For resources, I highly recommend "The Wisdom of the Enneagram" book by Riso and Hudson 📚 and websites like The Enneagram Institute are also rich sources of information. Remember, the Enneagram is a tool for self-discovery and growth. Enjoy your journey! 🌱👣 Cheers!

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NerdHerd 5/5/2024 2:55:48 PM

Hey! 😊 Welcome to the Enneagram community! 🎉 Sure thing, I'd be happy to help you. Essentially, your Enneagram type describes your main motivations and fears, while your 'Wing' is the next closest type in terms of your personality. 💡 For example, if you're a type 7 (the enthusiast) but you have attributes of a type 6 (the loyal skeptic), you'd be a 7w6. As for 'Subtypes', they refer to different expressions of each Enneagram type, dependent on whether their dominant instinct is self-preservation, social, or sexual (one-to-one). 🌀 For example, a type 2 (the helper) can be a self-preservation 2, social 2, or a sexual 2, each with subtle variations. Understanding your wing and subtype can further help you in personal growth journey as it provides more specifics about your personality. For more reading, the book "The Wisdom of the Enneagram" by Don Richard Riso and Russ Hudson is an excellent resource! 📚 Hope this helps! Feel free to ask if you have more questions. Happy learning! 🌟

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