A Summary of Personality Type Theory

Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I)

This dichotomy distinguishes those who focus primarily outward from those who focus primarily inward. Extraverts are typically energized by interacting with others, while Introverts rejuvenate through introspection and solitary time. Estimates vary, but American society is perhaps two-thirds Extraverted.

Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N)

The two ways of perceiving, or taking in information about the world, are Sensing and Intuition. Sensors prefer to take in information through the five senses. They tend to be practical, observant, realistic, and down-to-earth. They are the typical common-sense types. Intuitives prefer to take in information as a whole, relying on impressions and looking for underlying meanings and relationships between things. They tend to be imaginative, innovative, theoretical, and are the typical visionary types. American society is perhaps two-thirds Sensing.

Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F)

The two ways of making decisions based on the information gathered through Sensing or Intuition are called Thinking and Feeling. Those who prefer the Thinking function typically make decisions based on data, facts, principles, and justice. They tend to be objective, firm, and principled. Those who prefer the Feeling function usually make decisions subjectively, based on empathy or the effects of a decision on others. They tend to be personal, appreciative, and sympathetic. In American society, 60% of males are estimated to be Thinking types and 60% of females are estimated to be Feeling types. This is the only preference that shows any gender difference.

Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P)

This preference is determined by whether your Judging (decision making) preference (T or F), or your perceiving (information gathering) preference (S or N) is focused outward. Judging types prefer to have decisions made instead of leaving options open. They tend to be decisive, structured, resolved, and organized. Perceiving types prefer to gather information and put off making decisions. They tend to be adaptable, flexible, and spontaneous. American society is estimated to be 55-60% judging.



Your preference on these four dichotomies will combine to make one of the sixteen personality types such as ESFJ, INTJ, ENFP, or ISTP.

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