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What is Personality Type?
The concept of personality type is about the natural habits of mind we develop as we grow. For example, some may have a preference for noticing concrete reality, others for noticing abstract concepts. Or one has a preference for the external world of people and action, another a leaning towards the inner world of ideas and contemplation. In every case, both will be true for us at different times, but we have an inclination towards one or the other when free to choose.
These natural preferences fall into patterns, and an understanding of these patterns can help us to make sense of ourselves, our relationships, our life choices.
One of the most widely used personality type systems describing these patterns is called Myers-Briggs, after the mother-daughter team that developed it. This system also has the most books available on the open market for those who want to explore it further.
See below for a list of books I've found really useful...
General Books on Personality Type
Gifts Differing: Understanding Personality Type
The original book by Isabel Briggs Myers who developed the MBTI. Clear and readable, focussing mainly on the strengths of each type. Also describes how the system was developed.
What Type Am I?: The Myers-Brigg Type Indication Made Easy
A really clear and simple explanation of the basics of type. Well laid out with cartoons and bullet points, making it easy to dip into. A recommended 'first' book, especially if you don't like the idea of masses of dense text.
Type Talk: The 16 Personality Types That Determine How We Live, Love, and Work
A lively and observant look at the different types and temperaments, and how to see the differences in people around you. Includes more of the weaknesses of each type, rather than just the strengths.
Was That Really Me?: How Everyday Stress Brings Out Our Hidden Personality
Sometimes when we're under particular pressure, we find ourselves behaving differently, or 'out of character'. This book looks at how these behaviours are linked to our basic type, and are an expression of of our 3rd and 4th functions. A deeper look into the dynamics of type.
Please Understand Me II: Temperament, Character, Intelligence
Looks at the four temperaments, and how they relate to the 16 M-B types. However, the focus is on differences in behaviour, rather than interior preferences. Includes a questionnaire. The alternative approach to descriptions may be more useful for some.
Books on Personality Types and Relationships
Do What You Are : Discover the Perfect Career for You Through the Secrets of Personality Type--Revised and Updated Edition Featuring E-careers for the 21st Century
A great book to investigate possible career choices, with worksheets to help you think through your own situation.
Nurture by Nature: How to Raise Happy, Healthy, Responsible Children Through the Insights of Personality Type
Applying the understanding of type to parenting, by the authors of Do What You Are. A fascinating look at how type develops through maturity, and very practical.
Just Your Type: Create the Relationship You've Always Wanted Using the Secrets of Personality Type
There is no 'right' or 'wrong' type combination, but this book explores the gifts and struggles for couples of each combination of types.
People Types and Tiger Stripes
An in-depth and practical look at how an understanding of personality type can help in the classroom, understanding the needs of both teachers and pupils.
Books on Personality Types and Faith
Pray Your Way
One of the earliest books on how the different ways God has made us is reflected in how we choose to relate to Him. Also ideas for growth. A classic in this field.
Soultypes: Matching Your Personality and Spiritual Path
Offers a deeper understanding of type and type dynamics, in the context of what supports or hinders our spiritual development. Very clear, grouped by dominant function and laid out in a way that makes it easy to compare between types. Written broadly to apply to all faiths.
Knowing Me Knowing God: Exploring Your Spirituality With Myers-Briggs
A slim and easy-to-read book, an excellent introduction to understanding type and how it relates to our spiritual lives.
Myers-Briggs Resources
- Personality Type Resources
- A listing of books and web resources I have found useful in the exploration and understanding of MBTI theory.
Other books on Myers-Briggs
About the Author
Christine Rigden is a qualified Career and Life Coach, and MBTI practitioner. She leads personality type workshops for churches and businesses for personal and team development. She also coaches individuals exploring changes in direction in their lives. See her web site Insights For Change.
Blogs on Myers-Briggs
- Orrin Woodward Leadership Team :: Myers-Briggs Personality Test
- Orrin Woodward Leadership Team, Woodward Book Reviews, Launching a Leadership Revolution Blog.
- Musings from the Third Half: On Using the Myers Briggs Type ...
- Although developed several decades before, the MBTI came into vogue in the 1980s when a number of books about it were published, including the second edition of A Guide to the Development and Use of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator ...
- Can Your Personality Get You Fired? - Careers Articles
- And though there are a myriad of test instruments to choose from, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) remains the standard-bearer of all personality assessments. According to its publishers, Myers-Briggs is used by roughly nine out ...
- Personality tests | Friendly Blog
- Many, but by no means all, psychological researchers believe that the dimensional approach is more accurate, although as judged by the popularity of the Myers-Briggs tool, typological approaches have substantial appeal as a ...
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