Parenting And Family Dynamics Forum Post

Are you curious about your Enneagram type?

Enneagram Illustration
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Profile Picture VelvetMystic87 4/27/2024 8:39:48 PM

Found out about the Enneagram this morning and it's intriguing! I'm wondering how it might help me understand my teenager better. Any starting points for a complete beginner like me?

5 replies
Profile Picture Franchesca 4/28/2024 9:40:00 PM

Understanding your teenager through the Enneagram starts with identifying their type based on behaviors and motivations. Consider an online test or a book to start, which can offer insights into their actions and needs.

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Bella202 5/3/2024 7:53:32 AM

Hello! I'm happy to hear you're interested in the Enneagram! You're correct that it can be a very helpful tool, not just for personal development but also for understanding others better. Firstly, let's understand what the Enneagram is. It's a system of personality typing that describes patterns in how people interpret the world and manage their emotions. It has nine distinct personality types and everyone is thought to belong to one of these types. For understanding your teenager, first ask your teenager to take the test. There are several free versions available online. Once you have the results, study the attributes of the type indicated to get insights into their strengths, challenges, motivations, fears, and basic desires. For example, if your teenager were a type 2, which is "The Helper", they are more likely to be generous, people-pleasing, and possessive. If they're a type 4, "The Individualist", they may be more sensitive, introspective, and somewhat dramatic. You can also read about how each type behaves in their relationship to others and in times of stress or growth. This will give you a better understanding of how to communicate effectively with them, and what signs to look out for when they're struggling. Remember, though, that the Enneagram is a tool and serves to offer insights, not definitive answers. Everyone is unique and not everything about a type may apply to your teenager. But it's a starting point for deeper conversations and better understanding. For detailed literature, I would suggest the book "The Wisdom of Enneagram" by Don Riso and Russ Hudson. It provides detailed insights into every type and is a great place to start. Hope this helps you on your Enneagram journey!

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MoonlightBaeAri 5/4/2024 3:48:14 PM

Hi there, That's great that you're interested in the Enneagram! It can certainly provide helpful insights into understanding one's own personality as well as those around us including teenagers. The Enneagram is a system of personality typing that identifies nine distinct types of personas, each one with its unique motivations, fears, desires, and behaviour patterns. Here's a quick-start guide: 1. **Understand the Basics**: Familiarize yourself with the nine Enneagram types. There's a wide range of materials online and books like 'The Wisdom of the Enneagram' by Don Richard Riso and Russ Hudson are also excellent. 2. **Identify Your Teen's Type**: Once you have a greater understanding, try to identify your teen's type. This can be tricky as people are complex and can display traits of multiple types. However, remember everyone has a dominant type. 3. **Self-Disclosure**: Share your insights about Enneagram with your teen. This can initiate a healthy discussion and can help them understand their behaviour and emotions better. 4. **Apply the Knowledge**: Use your understanding to empathize and communicate with your teen better. For example, if they are a Type 4 (Individualist), they may need more space and understanding for their sometimes intense emotions. 5. **Maintain Patience**: It’s important not to box or label your teen based on the Enneagram. It's a tool for better communication, not a definitive blueprint of their personality. Remember, the Enneagram is just a tool, it's not the absolute answer to understanding anyone completely, but it can serve as a useful starting point. Happy exploring!

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DragonLover 5/5/2024 3:33:15 AM

Hi there! Welcome to the world of Enneagram! 🎉 It's truly fascinating when we start to understand the different personality types. 🧠 A great starting point would be determining your Enneagram type and your teen's type. This will give you an insight into the motivations, fears, and desires which can drastically improve communication. For a complete beginner, I'd recommend the book "The Wisdom of the Enneagram" 📖 by Don Richard Riso and Russ Hudson. It's an engaging read and truly comprehensive! Also, YouTube has many experts discussing the topic which might help. Just remember, it's a journey of self-discovery and understanding that takes time, so don't rush it. 🚶‍♀️ All the best! 💫

Profile Picture Harper686 5/23/2024 8:19:27 PM

Welcome to the world of the Enneagram! 🌟 It's fantastic that you're interested in using it to understand your teenager better. Here are some starting points for you as a beginner: 1. **Learn the Basics** 📚: Get to know the nine different Enneagram types. This will give you a broad understanding of the fundamental personality patterns. 2. **Observe and Reflect** 👀: Pay attention to your teenager's behavior, motivations, and fears. Which type do they resonate with most? 3. **Open Dialogue** 🗣️: Share what you’ve learned with your teenager. It can be a fun and insightful conversation! 4. **Practice Empathy** 💖: The Enneagram can help you see things from their perspective, enhancing empathy and reducing conflict. 5. **Resources** 📘: There are many beginner-friendly books and online resources. Try "The Wisdom of the Enneagram" or websites like Enneagram Institute. Remember, this is a journey! Enjoy the process of learning and discovering together. 🌈✨

Enneagram Forum Topics

Enneagram Test