The Enneagram is a personality typology system that has been used for centuries to help people understand themselves and others on a deeper level. However, what many do not know is that this system goes beyond the nine basic personality types, introducing an additional layer of complexity and precision: the Enneagram subtypes, also known as instincts. These subtypes reveal the richness and diversity of the human spectrum, immersing us in 27 unique personality patterns.
The concept of Enneagram Subtypes has evolved significantly since its origins. The Enneagram system itself is believed to have roots in ancient wisdom traditions, but it was Oscar Ichazo and Claudio Naranjo who brought it into contemporary psychology. Ichazo introduced the idea of the nine personality types and their interconnections, while Naranjo expanded on this by identifying the three instinctual variants within each type: Self-Preservation, Sexual (or One-to-One), and Social. This development marked the beginning of the Enneagram Subtypes as we understand them today.
If you have arrived here and you do not know your enneagram type and you are interested in knowing your subtype, we give you access to our quick enneagram test, it is one of the most accurate, with this test you will then be able to find out your subtype without any complexity. We have developed it to be easy to access and accurate. With just one click on our button you will start the test to then find out your subtype
Surely if you have come this far, you know that there are 9 types of Enneagram, each with different points in its development, but in the deeper knowledge of each of them, these subtypes are achieved thanks to the union of all the enneatypes (from 1 to 9) with each of their biological instincts, those we mentioned above, having 3 subtypes per enneatype, adding up to a total of 27 subtypes of the enneagram.
It is worth noting that the subtypes of the enneagram are not usually fixed, although your enneagram type is, it will vary depending on the stage of your life in which you are, the one that usually lasts the longest is that lowest subtype. The authors usually say that these subtypes have an order, however, for many (like us), it may depend on the level of interest and development of each person and their enneatype.
If you are interested in knowing the 27 subtypes of the enneagram, here are the links to learn about the subtypes by enneagram.
Enneagram subtypes, a blend between your main Enneagram type and your dominant survival instinct, play a crucial role in how we interact with the world. Divided into three major categories: self-preservation, social, and sexual-transmitter, these instincts underline our innate biological behavior, influencing our priorities, concerns, and the way we relate to others.
Subtypes add a layer of complexity to our personality, often explaining the internal contradictions we may experience. For example, a type 5 with a sexual-transmitter instinct may yearn for both independence and deep intimate connections, reflecting how our instincts can both complement and counteract our natural Enneagram type inclinations.
Considering the three instincts within each of the nine Enneagram types, we encounter 27 distinct personality variations, each with its nuances and complexities. These subtypes provide us with a powerful tool for self-exploration and personal growth, offering insights into our deepest motivations and how we can seek balance in our lives.
The Enneagram Subtypes Test is a specialized tool designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of your instinctual variant within your primary Enneagram type. This test explores the nuances of how your instincts influence your behaviors, relationships, and personal growth. By taking the Enneagram Subtypes Test, you gain a deeper insight into your dominant subtype and strategies to balance and develop your other instinctual drives. The results can be used for personal reflection, growth, and enhancing your interpersonal relationships.
Enneagram subtypes offer a more nuanced perspective on our personality, revealing how basic survival instincts influence our interactions, desires, and fears. By delving into each of these subtypes, we can gain a more complete understanding of ourselves and how we navigate the world.
The self-preservation subtype focuses on self-preservation. People with this dominant subtype invest heavily in creating a safe and comfortable environment. They are individuals who value stability and tend to be very aware of their physical and safety needs.
This subtype tends to focus on creating a structured and predictable life, prioritizing comfort and self-preservation over exploring the unknown or engaging in extensive social situations.
The social subtype highlights the importance of interactions and connections with groups and communities. People with this dominant instinct seek to be an integral part of social networks, valuing a sense of belonging and acceptance within these groups.
This subtype underscores the importance of social interactions, focusing on creating and maintaining bonds that provide them with a sense of identity and belonging.
People with the sexual-transmitter subtype are characterized by their desire to establish deep and intense connections. This instinct is not limited to romantic or sexual relationships but encompasses all forms of intimate and meaningful interaction.
This subtype is motivated by the need to find and nurture connections that transcend the superficial, always seeking to deepen the human experience.
Although we tend to have a dominant subtype, we all possess the three instincts at different levels of development. This stacking of subtypes helps us understand how our priorities can change and how we can work towards a healthier balance among them.
In the workplace, Enneagram Subtypes can significantly influence behavior. For instance, a Self-Preservation subtype may prioritize stability and practical concerns, a Sexual subtype might focus on intense one-to-one connections, and a Social subtype could emphasize teamwork and networking. Understanding these tendencies can enhance team dynamics and personal productivity .
In relationships, subtypes shape interaction styles and emotional responses. For example, a Sexual subtype often seeks deep, intimate connections, while a Social subtype might engage more broadly within community settings. Awareness of these patterns helps in managing interpersonal conflicts and fostering stronger bonds .
Balancing the influences of your subtypes across different life areas can lead to more harmonious living. Strategies such as setting boundaries for Self-Preservation subtypes, deepening connections for Sexual subtypes, and enhancing community engagement for Social subtypes are effective approaches .
Enneagram subtypes offer us a window into the complexities of our personality, giving us the opportunity to understand our internal contradictions and how they influence our daily lives. By exploring and understanding our subtypes, we can move towards more meaningful personal growth, recognizing and embracing the richness of our individuality.
| Subtype | Main Focus | Practical Example |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Preservation | Self-preservation and physical comfort | Concern for health, home, safety. |
| Social | Relationships and belonging to groups | Interest in group dynamics, social recognition. |
| Sexual-Transmitter | Intimate and deep connections | Seeking meaningful relationships, mutual influence. |
In the end, the journey towards self-knowledge is an endless path, but understanding Enneagram subtypes is a crucial step for those seeking to deepen their understanding of themselves and others.