September 14, 2005 7:32 AM
Mothering by personality type
The other day I mentioned the Jungian Typology test, which divides people into 16 personality types. I was always impressed with the test because my results were accurate and it wasn't as though I could fit any of the other descriptions. I think the test can help you understand your strengths and weaknesses as a mother. For instance, I am an ENTJ which is sometimes called Field Marshal and is described in some results in somewhat unflattering ways (probably by someone with the opposite personality type ;)
My type - which compels me to lead and organize - fit me well for the job of being a megamom in some ways. However, it made it difficult for me to learn how to be a submissive wife. And it also means I'm prone to lose patience very quickly with people who are disorganized, balky, or governed by their feelings. Since I first took the test in 1989 - when we happened to be going to a cult-like church with a leader who was also ENTJ and I could see the worst excesses of my personality type on display - it has really helped me personally be confident about my strengths and diligent about working on my shortcomingings.
I know some most of these tests that circulate on blogs are silly and pointless, but this one is definitely the real thing. It is used to help employers and employees understand how people work and relate on the job. And I think it can help us with the job we do, too.
After you get your personality type from taking the free test here, this site is a good place to look up a detailed description of your type. With input from the Holy Spirit, this can be a powerful tool in helping you become a better mother.
I also believe that no type is superior to the other, but since God has different plans for different children, he needs different kinds of mothers to bring them up. Of course, that doesn't mean we do a perfect job, but it has helped my understanding of my own situation so much, I just wanted to pass it on.
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Comments
I read the detailed description of my type, ENFJ, and I am always amazed by its accuracy. My husband is an INFP. I am going to forward his description to him and see what he thinks.
Posted by: mopsy | September 14, 2005 11:16 AM
Well, I found that Mr.S. is very definitely a Mastermind, INTJ and that the profile fit him to a T. When he looked at my initial test the other day and the resulting profile he didn't agree, nor did he think my profile fit as well as his, so here I am trying again! Maybe I'll take the test for a third time... humph... glad the baby is asleep!
Posted by: mrs.s | September 14, 2005 11:53 AM
It says that I am an ENFJ type. It seems to fit pretty well with who I am. Very interesting! I want to have my husband take it as well.
Posted by: Rachel | September 14, 2005 12:00 PM
Any way to find our young children's type? Some of the questions in the Myers-Briggs are probably too abstract for them.
Posted by: floorplan | September 14, 2005 2:06 PM
I love this personality test. I'm an INFP myself.
Posted by: Jana | September 14, 2005 3:03 PM
My husband and I took this test during our pre-marital counseling and it is very helpful and insightful as you said. Thanks for the link to understanding more about your personality type. At what age have you noticed your children are able to take the test accurately? I wonder if it's possible to guess what personality type your children might be at a young age.
Posted by: Sarah | September 15, 2005 4:52 PM
