Personality type tests and quizzes that help us focus on our
inner attributes can help improve self-esteem and deepen our
understanding of and relationships with others. Many "type
tests" are based on the theories of the famous psychologist,
Carl Gustav Jung--though they may vary considerably, ranging
from the famous Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and Kiersey
Temperament Sorter to quizzes based on Jung's archetypal
psychology, e.g, the popular
Goddess Quiz.
Try to choose a personality test that gives
detailed results and a lengthy report. Compared to personality
profile tests (personality traits tests like the Big Five, or the 16 pf),
many "type tests" can fall short. Dr. Mark Leary, a professor of psychology at Wake-Forest University, had
this to say about it in a recent article about the craze for online personality
tests:
"Some of the most popular tests--such as the famous Myers-Briggs
battery which divides people into 16 personality types--are not used by mainstream
psychologists because they imply that you're either 'this' or you're 'that', whereas in
fact most personality traits fall on a continuous scale."
Your personality type represents your "comfort
zone." This is where you are most relaxed and effective. While
your primary type is the strongest, part of your personal
development is shoring up your areas of weakness.
Personality type tests may help you learn new methods of coping with stress and anxiety,
find careers which are especially suitable for you or suggest ways to improve your
personal relationships...in short, they are a valuable tool for self-assessment.