What’s the Difference? Distinguishing Type 5 from types 1 and 8

This post discusses type 5

Core Motivation: feel important;

Action Goal: reveal what is important and true

There are circumstances when type 5 people can seem to fit the description for type 1 or type 8.  Below are some pointers that clarify what sets type 5 people apart from each of the other types.  

Both 5 and 1 types can appear opinionated and rigidly confident in their perspectives.  The difference shows up when we look at process by which those opinions and perspectives are formed.  Type 5 people rely on their own, individual analysis of data collected from personal experience and observation. In contrast, type 1 people rely on formally recognized information from established, industry data sources.  

Both 5 and 8 types act in ways that frequently alienate other people.  The difference shows up when we look at how the alienation factor functions within each type’s social dynamics.  Type 5 people tend to be aware (even proud) of their alienation, and often use it to affirm a sense of indignance that others do not possess their understanding of life’s truths.  In contrast, type 8 people are often unaware of the extent to which they alienate others.  Type 8’s focus much energy on exerting any power that have to position themselves for leadership, strongly resistant to understanding why anyone would not welcome and appreciate their efforts.

Overall, type 5 individuals are self-reliant people who would rather spend time pursuing what interests them than socializing.  They are generally very cerebral individuals who think about everything far more than most people.

What’s the Difference? Distinguishing Type 4 from types 6 and 7

This post discusses type 4

Core Motivation: feel understood;

Action Goal: communicate honestly or not at all

There are circumstances when type 4 people can seem to fit the description for type 6 or type 7.  Below are some pointers that clarify what sets type 4 people apart from each of the other types.  

Both 4 and 6 types are emotionally sensitive.  The difference shows up when we look at the kinds of relationships where that sensitivity appears.  Type 4 people invest most of their emotional energy into the few most intimate relationships they have.  And, their emotional sensitivity is reserved for those relationships.  In contrast, type 6 people bring their emotional sensitivity to every interaction they have, whether or not it is in the context of an emotionally intimate relationship.

Both 4 and 7 types live life with a strong intuitive sense of what feels right or not right.  The difference shows up when we look at the general categories of what feels right to each type.  Type 4 people prioritize deep emotional experience and expression, supporting their intuitive attraction to the Arts and spiritual pursuits.  In contrast, type 7 people prioritize the thrill of the moment, supporting their intuitive attraction to extreme sports and other experiences that provide opportunity for intense sensory stimulation.

Overall, type 4 individuals are deeply focused on their internal life.  They often surprise those around them with their ability to not notice events or communication they would consider mundane. 

What’s the Difference? Distinguishing Type 3 from types 1 and 8

This post discusses type 3 (Core Motivation: feel successful;

Action Goal: lead a major agenda) in relation to types 1 and 8.

There are circumstances when type 3 people can seem to fit the description for type 1 or type 8.  Below are some pointers that clarify what sets type 3 people apart from each of the other types.  

Both 3 and 1 types tend to be organized, result oriented planners who like functioning within a proven, efficient system.  The difference shows up when we look at the relationship between the person and the system.  Type 3 people generally feel unsettled and dissatisfied until they reach a central, public, leadership position.  In contrast, type 1 people generally find long-term success in taking on active, invaluable support roles within the system.   

Both 3 and 8 types actively pursue the lead position within a group.  The difference shows up when we look at their respective approaches to taking the lead.  Type 3 people engage in diplomatic relationship building with those who can help them reach the top.  In contrast, type 8 people use any power at their disposal to force others out of the way.

Overall, type 3 individuals assess the system and people around them before implementing system-wide, diplomatic strategies designed to bring organizational success with them at the lead.

What’s the Difference? Distinguishing Type 2 from types 6 and 9

This post discusses type 2 (motivation: feel needed; Action Goal: give) in relation to types 6 and 9.

There are circumstances when type 2 people can seem to fit the description for type 6 or type 9.  Below are some pointers that clarify what sets type 2 people apart from each of the other types.  

Both 2 and 6 types actively pursue ways to understand and fill the individual needs of people around them.  The difference shows up when we look at how the givers want their actions to be perceived.  Type 2 people want their actions to be seen as selfless acts of thoughtfull kindness.  Type 6 people want their actions to be seen as expressions of connectedness and mutual trust in the relationship.

Both 2 and 9 types can come across as very acquiescent to the will of others.  The difference shows up when we look at the context of the acquiescence.  Type 2 people generally find a long-term personal or professional context or specific relationship which becomes the focus of their committed selflessness.  Type 9 people are comfortable accepting directives from whatever personal or professional circle they are encountering at a given moment.

Overall, type 2 people live to priotize the needs of others as their way of making a difference in the world around them.

What’s the Difference? Distinguishing Type 1 from 3, 5, 6, and 8

This next set of posts  contrasts the different Enneagram types that can exhibit common characteristics.  The posts will progress in order from 1 to 9, discussing each type in relation to the specific other types that appear to share similar traits.   This post discusses type 1 (motivation: feel safe; Action Goal: make the world right) in relation to types 3, 5, 6, and 8.

There are circumstances when type 1 people can seem to fit the description for type 3, type 5, type 6 or type 8.  Below are some pointers that clarify what sets type 1 people apart from each of the other types.  

Both 1 and 3 types tend to be organized, result oriented planners who like functioning within a proven, efficient system.  The difference shows up when we look at the relationship between the person and the system.  Type 1 people generally find long-term success in taking on active, invaluable support roles within the system.  In contrast, type 3 people generally feel unsettled and dissatisfied until they reach a central, public, leadership position.  

Both 1 and 5 types can appear opinionated and rigidly confident in their perspectives.  The difference shows up when we look at process by which those opinions and perspectives are formed.  Type 1 people rely on formally recognized information from established, industry data sources.  In contrast, type 5 people rely on their own, individual analysis of data collected from personal experience and observation.

Both 1 and 6 types can find themselves stuck in a state of anxiety.  The difference shows up when we look at the reaction to feeling anxious.  Type 1 people react by seeking and holding onto order and predictability.  In contrast, type 6 people react by becoming more frenetic and dramatic in their multitasking.

Both 1 and 8 types can come across as inflexible and controlling.  The difference shows up when we look at communication style.  Type 1 people will tend to back up their position using formal arguments.  Type 8 people tend towards intimidating language aimed at pressuring the other person into compliance.

Overall, type 1 people are straight shooters who find comfort and resolution in a linear approach to life.

Understanding Your Child: Type 9 of 9

In this post, I discuss type 9 of 9

Core Motivation: feel accepted;                                                                                        

Action Goal: find places and ways to belong

Children strongly influenced by a type 9 core personality are not easily categorized.  They readily change their demeanor to match the expectations of those around them.  Type 9 children are very open to suggestion from both children and adults, especially when that leads to approval and inclusion.  When a type 9 child is subject to an unsupportive environment, she generally lacks the motivation or ambition required to seek a way out.  Children strongly influenced by a type 9 personality are generally eager to please and to be liked.

If you are wondering whether a child you know is influenced by a type 9 personality, it may help to ask yourself these questions:

A.     Does the child seem happiest when receiving approval from a social group?

B.     Are the child’s actions and attitude easily influenced by others?

C.     Does the child seem to lack inner direction and a clear sense of their own identity?

D.     Does the child rarely stand up for himself?

All of these statements would be true for most children influenced by a type 9 core personality.  As always, wings influence the core type, so there may be some minor exceptions.  Type 9 children generally ask for little on their own behalf.  Unless persistently prompted to do so, type 9 children will not tune in to their inner thoughts and feelings.  Unless actively challenged, the older the child gets, the more likely she is to be drawn into peer dynamics that are not in her best interest.  Gently facilitating exploration of personal hobbies and interests will support both her development as an empowered, healthy person, and the relationship between the two of you.

Understanding Your Child: Type 8 of 9

In this post, I discuss type 8 of 9

Core Motivation: feel powerful;                                                                                          

Action Goal: take charge of people & circumstances

Children strongly influenced by a type 8 core personality are likely to develop a reputation for bullying.  Often, these children are not aware of how their behavior makes others feel.  They generally do not realize that other children do not know how to stand up to them.  As such, they conclude that they have ‘won fair and square’ even when they have gotten their way through sheer intimidation.  Type 8 children respond more positively to adult direction that makes room for the child to exercise some power in the process.

If you are wondering whether a child you know is influenced by a type 8 personality, it may help to ask yourself these questions:

A.     Does the child often act in a way that is perceived as ‘bossy?’

B.     Is the child quick to communicate when he or she is upset?

C.     Is the child generally resistant to being told what to do?

D.     Does the child prefer to play with children who want to follow?

E.     Are other children intimidated by or afraid of this child?

All of these statements would be true for most children influenced by a type 8 core personality.  As always, wings influence the core type, so there may be some minor exceptions.  Type 8 children are often identified by caregivers as disruptive and tough to manage.  However, grownups who understand the need these children have to feel empowered, can appreciate the confidence of these children and their willingness to take risks and go after what they want.

Understanding Your Child: Type 7 of 9

In this post, I discuss type 7 of 9

Core Motivation: feel the high;                                                                                                   

Action Goal: Seek out where thrill can be had in each moment

Children strongly influenced by a type 7 core personality seem to effortlessly embrace the natural joy of childhood.  Type 7 children are generally playful, fun-living, easy-going children who, for the most part, do not wallow in negative emotions.  Unless they are feeling some immediate discomfort (such as hunger or boredom,) type 7 children eagerly welcome opportunities for spontaneity and imaginative play.  Strongly connected to the present moment, these children have a tendency to exhibit dramatic reactions to sensory discomforts. 

If you are wondering whether a child you know is influenced by a type 7 personality, it may help to ask yourself these questions:

A.     Does the child seem happiest while engaged in exciting activities?

B.     Is the child easily eased into a change of plans?

C.     Is the child generally upbeat?

D.     Does the child have a vivid imagination?

E.     Is the present moment notably more relevant to the child’s perceptions, feelings and mood than any past or future events?

All of these statements would be true for most children influenced by a type 7 core personality.  As always, wings influence the core type, so there may be some minor exceptions.  Type 7 children have as much potential to grow into master meditators or athletes as they have to fall into addictive patterns.  If a child in your life is strongly influenced by a type 7 core personality, he or she will benefit from lots of opportunity to experience the natural highs of sports and other healthy activities.

Understanding Your Child: Type 6 of 9

In this post, I discuss type 6 of 9

Core Motivation: feel seen;                                                                                         

Action Goal: be everywhere at once

Children strongly influenced by a type 6 core personality are generally likeable, sympathetic children, often perceived as having certain ADD/ADHD characteristics.  They often project a strong sense of not wanting to miss out on any corner of life.  Type 6 children are likely to be misread as feeling over-confident while, in fact, they are experiencing internal anxiety that drives them to seek out both distracting and validating experiences.  

If you are wondering whether a child you know is influenced by a type 6 personality, it may help to ask yourself these questions:

A.     Does the child seem happiest in active, social contexts?

B.     Does the child’s attention remain consistently active, while shifting focus as a matter of course?

C.     Does the child exhibit some signs of anxiety?

D.     Does the child seem adept at eliciting the desired response from peers and grownups?

E.     Does the child express different, conflicting feelings in the span of a day?

All of these statements would be true for most children influenced by a type 6 core personality.  As always, wings influence the core type, so there may be some minor exceptions.  Type 6 children function with a baseline, frenetic energy.  They will generally appear successful and happy, though they are often feeling some sense of anxiety or inadequacy.  If a child in your life is strongly influenced by a type 6 core personality, taking time with nothing on the agenda to be fully present with that child will help to reinforce self-esteem and connection in your relationship.

Understanding Your Child: Type 5 of 9

In this post, I discuss type 5 of 9

Core Motivation: feel important;

Action Goal: reveal what is important and true

Children strongly influenced by a type 5 core personality are very cerebral and analytical.  Their proudest moments involve some form of being proven ‘right.’  They will rarely concede in arguments with other children or with grownups.  They like learning and problem solving, and tend to have long attention spans that they use to stay on any mental task until they feel it is completed, leaving them extremely resistant to being interrupted.  Type 5 children enjoy communicating with grownups, and often feel that their peers do not understand them.  For children strongly influenced by a type 5 core personality, thinking can often feel more fun than playing.

If you are wondering whether a child you know is influenced by a type 5 personality, it may help to ask yourself these questions:

A.     Does it seem easy for the child to say exactly what he is thinking?

B.     Does the child persist in trying to understand new information until it makes sense to her?

C.     Does the child enjoy problem solving?

D.     Does the child put a high value on being right?

E.     Does the child thrive on opportunities to analyze information and think freely?
F.   Does the child strongly resist interruptions and distractions?

All of these statements would be true for most children influenced by a type 5 personality.  As always, wings influence the core type, so there may be some minor exceptions.  Type 5 children generally are very  eager to show how much they know.   If a child in your life is strongly influenced by a type 5 core personality, encouraging and valuing his or her independent thought process is one of the most effective ways to support that child’s self esteem and the relationship between you.

Understanding Your Child: Type 4 of 9

In this post, I discuss type 4 of 9

Core Motivation: feel understood;

Action Goal: communicate honestly or not at all

Children strongly influenced by a type 4 core personality generally come across as shy and introverted.  They may seem to lack confidence and joie de vivre.  Type 4 children are emotionally sensitive and tend to be wary of new people and situations.  They are very intuitive and feel their intuitions and emotions strongly.  Asking a type 4 child to explain his or her feelings in logical terms is likely to alienate that child and push him further inside himself.  It is very important for children strongly influenced by a type 4 personality to have frequent opportunity for engaging in creative, artistic expression.  Once they find their creative voice of choice, they will gain confidence in themselves and trust in their world.

If you are wondering whether a child you know is influenced by a type 4 personality, it may help to ask yourself these questions:

A.   Does he or she tend to withdraw, especially where large numbers of people are present?

B.   Does he or she focus on emotional experience?

C.  Does he or she express emotions with intense language?

D.  Is he or she most relaxed around the few trusted family or friends?

E.   Does he or she get very absorbed in one or more forms of creative, artistic expression?

All of these statements would be true for most children influenced by a type 4 personality.  As always, wings influence the core type, so there may be some minor exceptions.  Type 4 children generally are very empathic to animals and those more vulnerable than themselves.  If a child in your life is strongly influenced by a type 4 core personality, focusing on supporting that child's internal world will build the trust and connection between you.

Understanding Your Child: Type 3 of 9

In this post, I discuss type 3 of 9 (Core Motivation: feel successful; Action Goal: lead a major agenda).  A child strongly influenced by a type 3 core personality will be readily recognized as ‘leader of the pack.’  He or she will project a ‘child with a plan’ persona, in a diplomatic, generally not a bossy, way.  Social contact is very important to type 3 children, such that they might get grumpy when they feel deprived of it in any way.  They are born leaders and, if supported, will generally continue to succeed in leadership roles throughout their lives. 

If you are wondering whether a child you know is influenced by a type 3 personality, it may help to ask yourself these questions:

A.   Does he or she naturally emerge as an identified leader within his or her social structure?

B.   Does he or she specifically dislike being ‘managed’?

C.  Does he or she like solving group problems?

D.  Is he or she generally diplomatic (especially for a child)?

E.   Does he or she focus more on practical outcomes than emotional ones?

All of these statements would be true for most children influenced by a type 3 personality.  As always, wings influence the core type, so there may be some minor exceptions.  Type 3 children generally achieve success (short and long term) when trusted with age appropriate responsibility and authority.  If a child in your life is strongly influenced by a type 3 core personality, you will likely see repeated opportunities to foster their leadership development.  The more you pursue those opportunities, the more you will connect with that child.

Understanding Your Child: Type 2 of 9

In this post, I discuss type 2 of 9 (Motivation: feel needed; Action Goal: give).   It is rare to come across a child with an obvious tendency toward a type 2 core personality.  Although many children enjoy ‘helping’ grownups, the type 2 child would stand out in her eagerness to be helpful and giving to other children on a day to day basis.  This child would act confident, and would be focused on other children with the expectation that she would be appreciated for her efforts.  Although grownups with a core 2 personality often do not act confident after years of unbalanced relationships, type 2 children will generally show a sense of pride in their role as giver.

If you are wondering whether a child you know is influenced by a type 2 personality, it may help to ask yourself these questions:
A.   Are they frequently focused on giving something to somebody?
B.   Are they confused when their offer to give is not accepted?
C.  Do they seem unclear on how to focus on themselves?
D.  Do they have little to say when asked about their own needs or feelings?
E.   Do they interpret not being allowed to give as not being liked?

All of these statements would be true for most 2 types.  As always, wings influence the core type, so there may be some minor exceptions.  Type 2 children, while acting with maturity, may need consistent guidance on issues related to boundaries.   If a child in your life is strongly influenced by a type 2 core personality, that child may benefit from frequent exploration of activities they personally enjoy and have the opportunity to choose on a consistent basis.  It may also be beneficial to support that child is discovering choices other than giving that are met with validation from adults and other children.

Understanding Your Child: Type 1 of 9

Anyone who spends time with children knows that they experience life differently from grownups.   As their brains process the constant influx of new information, their personalities continue to develop in various directions that help define skills, interests, perspective and temperament.  There are different opinions as to whether core personality is fully formed at birth, or is influenced by environmental factors.  Regardless, as young personalities move through developmental stages, it may be difficult to clearly identify a core personality type.  
 

That said, I still think it can be very helpful to notice certain Enneagram personality markers in a young child.  As a parent, I need all the clues I can get, and the Enneagram can offer some valuable ones.  This next series of posts will progress through the 9 personality types as they apply to children.  In this post, I discuss type 1 of 9 (Motivation: feel safe; Action Goal: make the world right).  

Children with a tendency toward a type 1 core personality feel safest when life is highly consistent and predictable.  They generally feel stressed in times of transition and when unexpected events or circumstances arise.  Like their grownup counterparts, they prefer structure, rules, a clear ‘right’ way to live and do things.  Children influenced by a type 1 personality generally find it challenging to talk about feelings (theirs or anyone else’s.)  It is important to understand that the linear thought process of type 1 personality children is not likely to be positively influenced by pressure to change.  Helping the type 1 child process emotional experience involves baby steps that begin with helping the child find safety in his/her own body.

If you are wondering whether a child you know is influenced by a type 1 personality, it may help to ask yourself these questions:

A.   Do they like routine?

B.   Do they tend to be organized?

C.  Are they very bothered when things do not go as planned?

D.  Do they often seem inflexible?

E.   Do they try to avoid change?

F.   Do they seem confused when asked to talk about feelings?

G.  Do they thrive on adult validation?

H.  Does the term “perfectionist” suit them?

All of these statements would be true for most children influenced by a type 1 personality.  As children develop, the personality wings evolve in relation to the core personality, making it possible for different parts of the personality to surface in different ways at various points of development.  

If you have regular contact with a type 1 child, it might help to understand that they are driven by the need to feel safe.  Just as with adults, the overwhelming threat of an ever-changing world puts 1 types in a constant state of self-preservation that translates into what many interpret as perfectionist behavior.

Personality Types Explored: Type 9 of 9

Personality type 9 explored

Core Motivation: feel accepted;                                                                   

Action Goal: find places and ways to belong

Type 9 people are the most diverse group among the nine personality groups.  At their core, they are extremely adaptable to their environment, and tend to be very open to others’ preferences for how to live or do things.  Unless specifically influenced by someone with an intolerant personality, they readily empathize with other people’s feelings and perspectives and are generally reticent to choose one side over another.    Under duress, type 9 people are the most strongly influenced by their personality wings (8 on one side, and 1 on the other).  Typically, trauma or severe stress will elicit reaction from either the 8 (power seeking) wing, or the 1 (safety seeking) wing.  9 type people who are not directly influenced by an outside attitude, and are not processing extreme trauma or stress tend to be very easygoing in both work and home environments.

If you are wondering if someone you know is a type 9, it may help to ask the following questions:

1.   Do they seem happiest when they feel part of a defined group?

2.   Does their behavior change significantly in response to their environment?

3.   Is it difficult to say exactly who they are and what they want?

4.   Do they focus their identity on the roles they play relative to others?

5.   Do they seek a clear structure or power role when stressed?

All of these statements would be true for most 9 types.  As mentioned, wings influence the core type, so there may be minor exceptions.   On a personal level, I think 9 types could be compatible with 1 types, 2 types, 3 types, 6 types, 7 types and 8 types.  If you have a type 9 person in your life, it may help to realize that they are particularly susceptible to the effects of stress and trauma.  Although, at their core, they put high priority on pleasing others, stress and trauma tend to undermine their sense of self at a very fundamental level.  As a result, they may begin to live purely in reaction to the threat they feel.  It may be useful to support them in identifying a social or professional group that can guide them back to a part of their identity that fulfills them.

Personality Types Explored: Type 8 of 9

Personality type 8 explored

Core Motivation: feel powerful;                                                                   

Action Goal: take charge of people & circumstances

Type 8 people are driven by the question: “how can I exercise my power here?”  They see their environment as a land of opportunity for manifesting their full power potential.  The quest for power can be very positive, especially within social or corporate structures in need of strong leadership.  Type 8 personalities can align with very benevolent objectives that aim to eliminate all that ails society.  Type 8 people position themselves for leadership in corporate, political, athletic, and fiscal realms.  However, even when they have good intentions, type 8 individuals generally come across as intimidating and challenging communication partners.  The type 8 approach to life is to plough through.  This approach carries over into every facet of life, and can earn them a reputation for inflexibility and bossiness.  

If you are wondering if someone you know is a type 8, it may help to ask the following questions:

1.   Do they routinely pursue the alpha role in personal and professional contexts?

2.   Do they confront challenges and people head on?

3.   Do they have strong resistance to taking orders?

4.   Do they get along best with those who are comfortable following?

5.   Are they generally perceived as tough and unapproachable?

All of these statements would be true for most 8 types.  As always, wings influence the core type, so there may be minor exceptions.   On a personal level, I think 8 types could be compatible with 2 types and 7 types.  If you interact with a type 8 individual on a regular basis, you may feel the need to hold back your thoughts or feelings much of the time.  8 types are particularly tuned in to the power dynamic around them, and often can seem sensitive to communication they interpret as threatening to their power status.

Personality Types Explored: Type 7 of 9

Personality type 7 explored

Core Motivation: feel the high;                                                                          

Action Goal: seek out where thrill can be had in each moment

Type 7 people live in the here and now.  Living for the present, they pursue experiences that yield a high concentration of thrilling or intensely satisfying moments.  Fun is a top a priority for them.  Type 7 people generally choose professions that promise high profile excitement.  Advertising and media, acting, extreme athletics, etc. are industries that attract a high percentage of 7 types.  Being successfully spontaneous comes naturally to them.  Your type 7 friend is the one to invite to a good-time outing.  Type 7 people are generally well meaning, although reliability and honesty are not intrinsically important to them.  The truth of the moment is their focus, and they are comfortable saying or promising whatever feels genuine at the time.  

If you are wondering if someone you know is a type 7, it may help to ask the following questions:

1.   Do they prioritize having a good time?
2.   Do they favor spontaneity over long-term planning?
3.   Are they generally fun to be around?
4.   Do they generally minimize the importance of follow-through?
5.   Do they generally have a ‘live and let live’ attitude?

All of these statements would be true for most 7 types.  As always, wings influence the core type, so there may be minor exceptions.   On a personal level, I think 7 types could be compatible with 2 types, 3 types, and 7 types.  If you have a personal or professional relationship with a type 7 individual, it is important to align your expectations with recognition of type 7 natural tendencies.  Emphasizing opportunities for in-the-moment gratification is likely one of the more effective ways to engage a type 7 person in any kind of joint venture.

Personality Types Explored: Type 6 of 9

Personality type 6 explored

Core Motivation: feel seen;                                                                   

Action Goal: be everywhere at once

Type 6 people are the most psychologically complex of the 9 types. They frequently shift their focus, and cycle through various tasks, goals and emotional states as a matter of course.  Their propensity for perpetual multitasking acts as both a superpower and an Achilles heel.  At their happiest, 6 types can be compared to a waiter balancing a huge tray of dishes and glasses on their head.  When stressed, 6 types lose connection to their unified life, and can appear scattered or anxious. Internally, they can experience a sense of urgency about not ‘missing anything,’ as someone juggling a bunch of soup bowls might feel.  Type 6 people tend to be sensitive to subtle mood shifts in the people around them.  This sensitivity can trigger the type 6 person into their own unsettled emotional state.

If you are wondering if someone you know is a type 6, it may help to ask the following questions:

1.   Are they generally social?

2.   Do they seem to have many ‘irons in the fire’ at all times?

3.   Do they often express an unsettled feeling?

4.   Can they seem hyper-sensitive to the way others relate to them?

5.   Does their attention shift frequently?

6.   Are they hyper-vigilant with regard to certain concerns?

All of these statements would be true for most 6 types.  As always, wings influence the core type, so there may be minor exceptions.   On a personal level, I think 6 types could be compatible with 2 types, 3 types, and 9 types.  If you have a family member or co-worker who is a type 6, it is reasonable to assume that they are managing many different (possibly conflicting) thoughts and feelings within themselves on an ongoing basis.   Maintaining direct communication (that doesn’t leave them guessing and worrying) is likely to serve your relationship well.