The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)® is a self-report questionnaire designed to help individuals identify their preferences for information-gathering and decision-making. In particular, MBTI measures our preferences in four areas:
- Where we get our energy: Extroversion or Introversion
- How we prefer to take in information: Sensing or Intuition
- How we prefer to make decisions: Thinking or Feeling
- How we orient ourselves to the world: Perceiving or Judging
The MBTI provides insight into the normal differences between people. The MBTI is based on Carl Jung’s theory of psychological types which explains some of the apparently random behavior differences in people. Although each individual is unique, these differences fall into patterns that we can see and understand. With this understanding, we gain insight into ourselves and into others.
An abundance of research supports the use of the MBTI. No other indicator has been as thoroughly studied and tested for validity and reliability. The MBTI assesses preferences, not skills.
Requires certification to administer.
Benefits
Widely recognized as reliable and valid, in common usage and, relatively quick to administer (20 minutes). Very ”non-judgmental.” All types are shown to have value and be appropriate in the workplace and in relationships.
Considerations
Many people have taken it and feel jaded by it. Some participants will be looking for something “new.”