MBTI and Personality Disorders: A Misguided Questionnaire

When discussing personality types, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) often comes up. However, it is important to understand that equating MBTI types with actual personality disorders is a misinformed and dangerous practice. In this article, we explore the rationale behind why this association is not only misguided but also goes against well-established psychological principles and best practices.

A Personal Perspective on MBTI and HPD

My personal experience with the Hogwarts Personality Disorder (HPD) and my high ENFJ score is a prime example of how MBTI types overlap with but are not synonymous with personality disorders. I score very high in HPD traits, which includes my intense need to be seen as holy and righteous, as well as beautiful and sexy, similar to an angel or a goddess from the beginning of time. However, my desire for recognition and approval manifests differently from the villainous character Harley Quinn, who longs for the Joker's love and marriage, in spite of her lifestyle choices. My empathy for others is strong, yet it often leads me to prioritize their feelings over my own, seeking validation through excessive words of affirmation and physical touch.

The Borderline Histrionic and OCPD in INTJ/ENTJ

It is often argued that INTJs and ENTJs cannot have Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) because they are known for their practical and analytical traits. However, consider how many fictional masterminds have a flair for the dramatic, such as Dr. Hannibal Lecter or Tony Stark, who exhibit a certain level of emotional intensity and manipulation—traits often seen in drama queen archetypes. Nevertheless, it is crucial to remember that MBTI is not a diagnostic tool for personality disorders. The compatibility of personality types with dramatic flair is a popular myth rather than a factual correlation.

Official Guidelines from the Myers-Briggs Institute

The Myers-Briggs Institute provides clear guidelines for the proper use and interpretation of the MBTI, which emphasize that it is not a tool for diagnosing mental illnesses or identifying psychological disorders. According to their website, the MBTI is based on the work of Carl Jung and developed by Isabel Briggs Myers and Katharine C. Briggs. The Myers-Briggs Institute asserts that the MBTI is:

Used to describe healthy personality differences, not psychological disorders or fixed traits. Emphasizes that all types are valuable, with no type being better or healthier than another. Presented in nonjudgmental terms, avoiding biases due to personal type preferences.

The institute also stresses that while people have preferences and predispositions, they have the full capacity to exhibit any trait because of personal history, education, training, and experience. It is unethical to use MBTI results to screen job applicants or make personal relationship decisions based solely on type information.

Empirical Evidence and Stereotyping

Historically, there has been an overreliance on stereotypes and anecdotal evidence when discussing the correlation between MBTI types and personality disorders. There is no empirical evidence to support such a correlation, making the question of equating MBTI types with personality disorders a misplaced and unwarranted inquiry. It is essential to approach the MBTI with the understanding that it is a tool for personality type identification and not a diagnostic instrument. Personalized and consistent use of non-preference tendencies can sometimes lead to stress or misinterpretation, which is why it is crucial to avoid rigid categorization and stereotyping.

Overall, the proper use of MBTI lies in acknowledging its value as a tool for self-reflection, understanding others, and personal development, while maintaining a clear distinction between personality types and psychological disorders. The misuse of MBTI in diagnosing or labeling personality disorders not only undermines its purpose but also contributes to the proliferation of stigmatizing misinformation.