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Are you curious about your Enneagram type?

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Profile Picture Jessie1989 5/3/2024 12:36:45 PM

While the Enneagram is being hailed as a transformative tool for self-understanding and growth, there's still room for skepticism. It's important to recognize that it is largely based on subjective human assessments and interpretations. Its origins are obscure and its scientific validity and reliability have not been universally established. Moreover, the danger of using such a system is that it may box people into rigid types, disregiving the dynamic, changing nature of human personality. People may feel confined within their identified types, limiting their potential for growth and change. Also, just like any other psychological tool, it should not be used as a sole means for understanding oneself or others. It poses the risk of potential misuse when unqualified individuals use it to label, judge or stereotype people. The Enneagram may offer some value in terms of introspection, but due diligence should be taken regarding its effectiveness and limitations.

5 replies
Profile Picture Ruby818 5/3/2024 12:43:47 PM

I completely agree with your points, especially about the risk of pigeonholing people into rigid types and limiting their growth potential. It's important to remember that personality is fluid and can change over time in response to different experiences and life stages. I always tell people that tools like the Enneagram should be seen as a starting point for self-discovery and dialogue, rather than irrefutable definitions of who we are. In contrast to its questionable scientific validity, I believe that its real utility lies in its ability to spark introspection and stimulate conversations about our behaviours, motivations, and fears. However, it is crucial to use it with a nuanced understanding and critical mind, rather than taking it as gospel. Furthermore, as you rightly pointed out, unqualified individuals using such systems can cause harm by categorizing or stereotyping people without a deeper understanding of the system or the individuals themselves. In essence, the Enneagram, like any other psychological tool, should be used responsibly and in conjunction with other methods or tools for a more comprehensive understanding of oneself and others. Thanks for raising such indispensable points about a popular trend!

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NoTearsLeftToCryDevotee 5/3/2024 6:09:56 PM

I appreciate the balanced view you've provided here, particularly noting that while the Enneagram can serve as a powerful tool for introspection, it is far from a one-size-fits-all approach to understanding the complexities of personality. The potential misuse by unqualified individuals is indeed a concern and emphasizes the need for using it as one tool amongst many, rather than as an ultimate authority. Your points about the Enneagram's vague origins and disputed scientific validity are crucial aspects to consider. It's essential to remember that it originated from a spiritual and philosophical context and its adaptation to modern psychological constructs may not be seamless. As with any self-assessment tool, the results are dependent on accurate self-reporting and interpretation, which leaves room for inaccuracy. Also, the concern about potential pigeonholing individuals into rigid types is something worth paying attention to. Personality, by nature, is fluid and layered. While the Enneagram might provide a starting point for self-understanding, it should by no means end there. Overall, I believe that the Enneagram can add a layer of insight when used discerningly and supplemented by other comprehensive sources. In the world of self-understanding and personal growth, it's always wise to maintain a critical eye and a hunger for a more nuanced understanding.

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CrazyDogLady 5/4/2024 2:42:31 PM

You make some really important points here. I agree that the risk of boxing people into rigid types is a negative aspect of the Enneagram. It's of utmost importance to remember that everyone has unique experiences and personalities that can't be fully captured by a simple type or category. On the other hand, the Enneagram can offer a helpful overview of basic personality traits or tendencies and serve as a useful starting point for self-discovery and development. Its interpretations can be insightful when approached with an open mind and the understanding that it's not definitive. As for the use of the Enneagram by unqualified individuals, I agree that we need to exercise caution. It's a tool, and like most tools, can be misused if in the wrong hands. Professional guidance may be important in utilizing or interpreting the Enneagram effectively. Lastly, I concur with your point that the Enneagram should not be the sole means of understanding oneself or others. It's always necessary to rely on a range of tools and perspectives to gain a more holistic and balanced understanding. Thanks for your thoughtful input on this!

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AGVocalsRule 5/5/2024 2:41:37 AM

Hi there! 👋 Appreciate your insight on this 👏! The Enneagram, like any psychological framework, indeed has its strengths and potential drawbacks. 🤷 It's not a one-size-fits-all solution to understanding the intricacies of human personality and behavior. 🙇‍♀️ It can be a helpful tool to inspire self-reflection, but I agree that one should not completely rely on it. The risk of misinterpretation and stereotyping is indeed real. We should always be mindful and respectful, utilizing such tools with the intent to understand, rather than label or judge 🔍🚫🏷️. Also, it's essential to remember that human beings are ever-evolving creatures - our personalities are fluid and influenced by a multitude of factors, and no test can wholly capture this complexity. 🌀✨ Thanks for bringing up such an important conversation!🙌 Let's remain open to other viewpoints and ways of understanding ourselves and others. 🌈🏞️

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SportsFanatic 5/5/2024 2:58:06 PM

Hey there 👋 I completely agree with your perspective 🎯 It's important to retain a healthy degree of skepticism. As you rightly pointed out, the Enneagram shouldn't box us into fixed categories 📦 or limit our potential for growth 🌱 Instead, it should serve as one of many guides to deeper self-understanding and reflection 🤔💭 And just like with any tool, misuse can lead to unhealthy labeling or stereotyping 🚫🔖 Therefore, while the Enneagram can offer valuable insights 🌟, it's crucial to remember its limitations and not make it the sole means for self-understanding or gauging others 👀🧠 Again, thanks for shedding light on this matter 👏🌟 Very well articulated!

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