The Enneagram is a powerful tool for understanding personality types and their motivations. It provides a framework for self-awareness, personal growth, and building healthier relationships.
Some subtypes further refine our understanding of each personality type within the Enneagram system.
These subtypes offer a deeper exploration of the complexities and nuances within each type, shedding light on the unique ways individuals express their core motivations.
This guide will delve into the definition, importance, key subtypes, features, theory, and examples of Enneagram subtypes.
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Definition:
Enneagram subtypes, also known as instinctual variants or instinctual subtypes, are three distinct variations within each of the nine Enneagram types.
These subtypes are based on three fundamental instincts: self-preservation, social, and sexual (also referred to as one-to-one or intimate).
Each individual possesses all three instincts, but one instinct tends to dominate and influence their behavior, desires, and fears more prominently than the others.
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Why are Enneagram Subtypes Important?
Understanding Enneagram subtypes is crucial because they provide a more comprehensive understanding of an individual’s personality.
They help us recognize how people of the same Enneagram type may differ.
By exploring subtypes, we understand how individuals prioritize their instincts, cope with challenges, and seek fulfillment.
This knowledge can foster empathy, improve communication, and enhance personal growth.
Key Enneagram Subtypes:
- Self-Preservation Subtype: Individuals with this subtype focus on their physical and material well-being. They are concerned with safety, security, and maintaining a stable environment. They may exhibit behaviors such as being organized, cautious, and practical.
- Social Subtype: People with this subtype prioritize their relationships and collective well-being. They seek connection, belonging, and social approval. They may display behaviors such as being friendly, helpful, and community-oriented.
- Sexual (One-to-One) Subtype: Individuals with this subtype emphasize intense, one-on-one connections and personal significance. They strive for deep emotional connections and may exhibit behaviors such as being passionate, competitive, and driven.
- Self-Preservation Subtype: People with this subtype focus on their individuality, personal identity, and emotional well-being. They seek authenticity, self-expression, and personal significance. They may display behaviors such as being reflective, creative, and emotionally intense.
- Social Subtype: Individuals with this subtype prioritize knowledge, understanding, and intellectual pursuits. They seek to contribute to society through their expertise and may exhibit behaviors such as being observant, detached, and socially engaged.
- Sexual (One-to-One) Subtype: People with this subtype emphasize loyalty, trust, and security in their relationships. They seek intense connections and may display loyal, sceptical, and protective behaviours.
- Self-Preservation Subtype: Individuals with this subtype focus on comfort, pleasure, and freedom. They seek stimulation, variety, and new experiences. They may exhibit adventurous, spontaneous, and pleasure-seeking behaviors.
- Social Subtype: People with this subtype prioritize power, influence, and justice. They seek to impact society positively and may display behaviors such as assertiveness, protection, and social responsibility.
- Sexual (One-to-One) Subtype: Individuals with this subtype emphasize intimacy, merging, and connection. They seek harmony and may display accommodating, empathetic, and nurturing behaviors.
Features and Theory:
The interplay between our core Enneagram type and dominant instinct influences enneagram subtypes.
The dominant instinct shapes our behavior, desires, and fears, influencing how we navigate the world.
Each subtype has its own distinct set of strengths, challenges, and growth opportunities.
Understanding these features can help individuals better understand themselves and others more holistically.
Examples:
- A self-preservation subtype of Type 2 may prioritize their well-being and security while still caring and helpful to others.
- A social subtype of Type 5 may focus on acquiring knowledge and understanding to contribute to their community’s growth and development.
- A sexual subtype of Type 8 may seek intense, passionate connections while also displaying assertiveness and a desire for justice.
By exploring Enneagram subtypes, we gain a deeper understanding of the intricate layers of personality and can navigate personal growth, relationships, and self-awareness with greater clarity and compassion.
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With 30+ years of experience, Catherine Fitzgerald, B.A., M.A., PGDip, founded Oak Innovation in 1995. Catherine received her Bachelor’s degree and Master’s from University College Cork. She holds qualifications in Professional Development And Training from University College Galway. She is completing a second Master’s from University College Cork. Since 1995, clients include Apple, Time Warner, and Harvard University.
