Myers-Briggs / MBTI & Enneagram Correlations

By A.J. Drenth

Personality enthusiasts often find value in exploring the overlaps and correlations between different classification systems. Two of the most widely known personality taxonomies, the Myers-Briggs (MBTI) and the Enneagram, present intriguing intersections. Although these systems were developed independently—with the MBTI based on Jungian psychology and the Enneagram rooted in ancient spiritual traditions—their descriptions of human nature reveal a number of meaningful correlations that enrich our understanding of personality.

By comparing these systems, we can begin to appreciate not only how they differ but also how they complement each other, shedding light on the nuances of individual behavior, motivation, and cognition. In this post, we’ll explore some of the most interesting connections between MBTI types and Enneagram types, offering insights into how these frameworks align. For clarity, we’ve included summary tables at the end to help visualize these connections.

Enneagram 1 Correlations

• Judging (J) types.

Enneagram Ones, often called “Reformers,” are typically found among any of the Myers-Briggs / MBTI Judging (J) types. Judgers are known for their structured, organized, and decisive nature—traits that resonate with the conscientiousness and moral rigor typical of Enneagram Ones. Ones are deeply concerned with order and improvement, often acting as agents of moral change, seeking to make the world a better place.

However, it’s worth noting that Perceiving (P) types, particularly those with strong Feeling (F) preferences, may occasionally test as Ones. This can occur when an FP type becomes particularly focused on shaping the world according to their own moral ideals and personal values.

Enneagram 2 Correlations

• Feeling (F) types.

Enneagram Twos, “The Helpers,” are almost exclusively Feeling (F) types. In the MBTI system, Feelers are characterized by their empathy, compassion, and attunement to the emotional needs of others. This naturally aligns with the nurturing and caring qualities of Twos, whose core motivation is to give and receive love and support.

Enneagram 3 Correlations

• Extraverted (E) & Thinking (T) types.

The essence of the Enneagram Three, “The Achiever,” is characteristically masculine, marked by a strong drive for status and self-distinction through achievement. Although some females may test as Threes, most are males. On the Myers-Briggs, about two-thirds of males test as Thinkers (T), making them more likely to identify as Threes.

Threes also tend to be more Extraverted (E), as research suggests that Extraverts are more likely to seek approval and recognition from others—key traits of the Enneagram Three. Interestingly, while Judging (J) types are often associated with Threes due to their competence and goal-oriented nature, Threes are also known for their adaptability and flexibility—traits more aligned with Perceiving (P) types. This flexibility allows them to pivot and change direction in pursuit of their goals, suggesting that Threes can span both the J and P preferences.

Enneagram 4 Correlations

• INFP, INFJ.

Enneagram Fours, “The Individualists,” align closely with INFP and INFJ types in the MBTI system. Fours are introspective, emotionally intense, and driven by a desire to express their unique identity. These traits are frequently found in INFPs and INFJs, who are known for their sensitivity, creativity, and focus on personal meaning and authenticity. Both types are drawn to deep emotional experiences and inner exploration, mirroring the Four’s quest for identity.

Enneagram 5 Correlations

• INTP, INTJ.

Enneagram Fives, “The Investigators,” resonate with the INTP and INTJ types. Fives are analytical, cerebral, and seek to understand the world through observation and intellectual exploration—traits that characterize INTPs and INTJs. These types share a natural curiosity and desire for knowledge, often retreating into their minds to understand complex systems and ideas.

Enneagram 6 Correlations

• Introverted (I) & Sensing (S) types.

Enneagram Sixes, “The Loyalists,” are typically associated with Introverted (I) and Sensing (S) types. Sixes are known for their anxiety and concern with safety and security, which reflects the Introvert’s tendency for anxiety and self-consciousness.

Additionally, Sixes tend to be pragmatic and less reflective than Fours or Fives, aligning with the Sensing (S) preference, which focuses on concrete details and the immediate environment. Sixes’ anxiety-driven vigilance is less common in Intuitive (N) types, who may be more focused on abstract ideas and possibilities rather than the tangible, real-world concerns that preoccupy Sixes.

Enneagram 7 Correlations

• Extraverted (E) & Perceiving (P) types.

Enneagram Sevens, “The Enthusiasts,” tend to be Extraverted (E) and Perceiving (P) types. Sevens are adventurous, spontaneous, and driven by a desire for variety and excitement—qualities that strongly align with the Extraverted Intuition (Ne) and Extraverted Sensing (Se) functions. Both Ne and Se types thrive on exploration and novelty, constantly seeking new experiences to satisfy their curiosity and avoid boredom.

Enneagram 8 Correlations

• ENTJ, ESTJ.

Enneagram Eights, “The Challengers,” exhibit a strong masculine essence, suggesting that Eights are more likely to be Thinking (T) types. Unlike Riso and Hudson’s association of Eights with Extraverted Intuition, it seems more appropriate to link the Eight with Extraverted Thinking (Te). ENTJs and ESTJs are clearest representatives of this type. Eights are assertive, exhibit leadership qualities, and have a desire for control.

Enneagram 9 Correlations

• INFP, ISFP.

Enneagram Nines, “The Peacemakers,” are most commonly associated with INFPs and ISFPs. Nines are introspective, adaptable, and conflict-averse—traits that align with the Introverted Feeling (Fi) function dominant in both INFPs and ISFPs. This type’s gentle, accommodating nature reflects the feminine essence often associated with these MBTI types, making them natural representatives of the Enneagram Nine.

Related Posts:

Enneagram vs. Myers-Briggs: Key Differences