Glossary

Easily understand MBTI terms and concepts

MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator)

Basic Concepts

A personality type assessment tool developed by Katharine Briggs and Isabel Myers based on psychologist Carl Jung's theory of psychological types. It classifies people's personalities into 16 types and explains the characteristics and behavioral patterns of each type.

Personality Type

Basic Concepts

A unique personality pattern created by the combination of four dichotomies (E/I, S/N, T/F, J/P), resulting in 16 distinct types. Each type has its own strengths, weaknesses, behaviors, and communication styles.

Preference

Basic Concepts

The degree to which one prefers either side in each dichotomy. It is not absolute but relative, and can flexibly change depending on the situation.

Jung's Theory of Psychological Types

History & Theory

The theory that forms the basis of MBTI, presented by Carl Jung. It is based on cognitive functions (sensing/intuition) and judging functions (thinking/feeling), and attitudes (extraversion/introversion).

Extraversion (E) vs Introversion (I)

Four Dichotomies

Extraverts gain energy from interactions with people and are more interested in the external world. Introverts gain energy from time alone and focus more on the internal world.

Sensing (S) vs Intuition (N)

Four Dichotomies

Sensors prefer current facts and concrete information, being practical. Intuitives prefer future possibilities and abstract concepts, being creative.

Thinking (T) vs Feeling (F)

Four Dichotomies

Thinkers prioritize logical and objective judgments, valuing truth and fairness. Feelers prioritize judgments considering people's emotions and values, valuing harmony.

Judging (J) vs Perceiving (P)

Four Dichotomies

Judgers prefer planned and systematic approaches, adhering to deadlines. Perceivers prefer flexible and spontaneous approaches, exploring new possibilities.

Cognitive Functions

Cognitive Functions

Eight functions that explain how each MBTI type processes information and makes judgments. They are divided into Sensing (Se/Si), Intuition (Ne/Ni), Thinking (Te/Ti), and Feeling (Fe/Fi).

Dominant Function

Cognitive Functions

The most developed and frequently used cognitive function in each type. It forms the core of personality and is used most naturally.

Auxiliary Function

Cognitive Functions

The second most developed cognitive function that supports the dominant function. It balances with the dominant function to complete the personality.

Inferior Function

Cognitive Functions

The least developed cognitive function, which may appear under stress. It has potential for growth.

Extraverted Sensing (Se)

Cognitive Functions

A function that focuses on sensory experiences of the present moment and physical reality. It has spontaneous and adventurous tendencies.

Introverted Sensing (Si)

Cognitive Functions

A function that compares past experiences and memories, valuing stability and tradition. It emphasizes details and consistency.

Extraverted Intuition (Ne)

Cognitive Functions

A function that explores possibilities and connections, creating new ideas. It has flexible and innovative thinking.

Introverted Intuition (Ni)

Cognitive Functions

A function that predicts future patterns and meanings, exercising insight. It has strategic and visionary qualities.

Extraverted Thinking (Te)

Cognitive Functions

A function that establishes logical systems and pursues efficiency. It excels at organization and planning.

Introverted Thinking (Ti)

Cognitive Functions

A function that builds internal logical systems and pursues accuracy. It engages in analytical and systematic thinking.

Extraverted Feeling (Fe)

Cognitive Functions

A function that considers others' emotions and pursues harmony. It has strong empathy and values social relationships.

Introverted Feeling (Fi)

Cognitive Functions

A function that makes judgments based on personal values and beliefs. It values authenticity and personal values.

Shadow Functions

Advanced Concepts

The opposite functions that are not commonly used, which may appear under stress. They represent unconsciously repressed aspects.

Type Dynamics

Advanced Concepts

A concept explaining how the four cognitive functions (dominant, auxiliary, tertiary, inferior) interact within each type.

Loop

Advanced Concepts

A negative state that occurs when only the dominant and inferior functions are repeatedly used under stress. Balanced thinking becomes difficult.

Grip

Advanced Concepts

A phenomenon where the inferior function suddenly appears under extreme stress. It may show different behavioral patterns than usual.

Gripping

Advanced Concepts

A stress reaction where the inferior function suddenly appears, causing behaviors different from the normal personality.

Perceiving Error

Advanced Concepts

A cognitive error that occurs when trying to fit new information into existing frameworks. It can lead to biases and stereotypes.

Judging Error

Advanced Concepts

An error of reaching conclusions hastily without gathering enough information. It can result in impulsive decisions and biased judgments.

INTJ (Architect)

Type Characteristics

A type with independent and strategic thinking. They excel at long-term planning and efficiency pursuit, and are excellent at solving complex problems.

ENFP (Campaigner)

Type Characteristics

A passionate and creative personality that explores new ideas and enjoys communicating with people. They are idealistic and inspiring leaders.

INFJ (Advocate)

Type Characteristics

A type with exceptional empathy and idealism. They have a strong belief in helping others and making the world a better place.

ENFJ (Protagonist)

Type Characteristics

Charismatic and inspiring leaders. They help others grow, pursue harmony, and have excellent communication skills.

History of MBTI

History & Development

Developed in the 1940s by Isabel Briggs Myers and Katharine Cook Briggs based on Carl Jung's theory of psychological types from the 1920s. It was commercialized in 1962 and is now widely used worldwide.

Reliability and Validity

History & Development

MBTI test results have reliability showing consistency over time. However, there is ongoing discussion about its scientific validity.

Type Growth

Practical Concepts

MBTI types are not fixed and can develop with growth and environmental changes. Developing the inferior function is particularly important.

Utilizing Type Strengths

Practical Concepts

It is important to recognize the unique strengths of each type and effectively apply them in daily life and career.

Inter-type Communication

Practical Concepts

Effective communication between different types requires understanding and adapting to each other's preferences.

Quick Reference Guide

Extraversion vs Introversion

E: Energy from external world
I: Energy from internal world

Sensing vs Intuition

S: Focus on current facts
N: Explore future possibilities

Thinking vs Feeling

T: Logical judgment
F: Emotional judgment

Judging vs Perceiving

J: Planned approach
P: Flexible approach

MBTI Study Guide

📚For Beginners

  • Start with the basic concepts of the four dichotomies
  • Accurately identify your own type
  • Read the type characteristics repeatedly
  • Analyze the types of people close to you
  • Don't treat MBTI results as absolute truth

🔬Advanced Study

  • Study the concept of cognitive functions in depth
  • Understand the function stack of each type
  • Observe behavior patterns under stress
  • Interact with people of various types
  • Learn about MBTI limitations and misconceptions

💡Practical Application

  • Consider the other person's type when communicating
  • Apply type-specific coping methods in conflicts
  • Utilize your strengths in career choices
  • Respect each other's differences in relationships
  • Practice continuous self-reflection

⚠️Cautions

  • MBTI is not a scientific diagnostic tool
  • Don't categorize people simply as labels
  • Types can change with growth and circumstances
  • It cannot replace professional counseling
  • Continuous learning and flexible thinking are important