The MBTI four temperaments provide a fascinating framework for delving into personality & behavior, grounded in the ancient concepts of Plato & Hippocrates, and reinterpreted by psychologist David Keirsey.
Keirsey’s adaptation categorizes individuals into four primary temperaments: the practical Artisans, the dutiful Guardians, the passionate Idealists, and the strategic Rationals. Each temperament represents a unique constellation of traits, influencing a person’s approach to life’s challenges, their communication style, and their intrinsic motivations.
The four temperaments framework serves as a prism for the study of personality, simplifying the complex landscape of human behavior into distinct archetypes that enable a quick understanding of personal and interpersonal dynamics. It acknowledges the varied blend of traits within each temperament, adding nuance & facilitating a deeper comprehension of one’s motivations and how we engage with the world.
In this article, we’ll provide an overview of the MBTI four temperaments by exploring their core values & distinct behaviors, temperament sub-types (such as NTJs & NTPs) and how these categories can guide individuals toward greater fulfillment & self-realization. Through this exploration, we hope that you will gain insights into the foundational elements of personality that shape our interactions & engagements with the world around us.
Key Takeaways:
- The MBTI four temperaments—Artisan, Guardian, Idealist, and Rational—offer a framework for understanding diverse personality traits and behaviors that have been recognized since ancient times and refined by modern psychologists like David Keirsey.
- Rationals (NT) are driven by autonomy and ingenuity, favoring abstract thought and strategic planning, and they value willpower and intellectual achievement as they seek to understand and master the world around them.
- Idealists (NF) prioritize empathy and authenticity, engaging in abstract communication and striving for personal growth, benevolence, and the cultivation of meaningful relationships.
- Artisans (SP) are characterized by their adaptability and creativity, often communicating in concrete terms and valuing artistic expression and spontaneity in their pursuit of audacity.
- Guardians (SJ), making up the largest portion of the population, are duty-focused, past-oriented, and safety-conscious, deeply valuing tradition and stability in their service-oriented roles.
Understanding the Asymmetry in the Keirsey System
The Keirsey Temperament Sorter breaks the mold of conventional symmetry seen in Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) groupings. While many might expect a neat division like NT, NF, ST, SJ, Keirsey’s approach is rooted in the observation of behavior, leading to a mix within the Sensing groups. Both SP (Artisan) & SJ (Guardian) temperaments house thinking & feeling types, a departure from the NT (Rational) & NF (Idealist) temperaments which are split along those lines.
The Behavioral Basis of Groupings
Keirsey’s system sidesteps the cognitive function focus of the 16 personality types, opting instead for a behavioral lens. This results in a system where SPs and SJs are both thinkers & feelers, reflecting a broader range of human interaction and activity. It’s a practical move, considering how people act & communicate, rather than the underlying mental processes.
Debates Within the MBTI Community
The lack of symmetry in the Keirsey Temperament Sorter often sparks discussions among MBTI enthusiasts. Some argue that a more balanced model would align better with cognitive functions, while others see the wisdom in Keirsey’s observation-based categories. This debate highlights the diverse interpretations and applications of personality theory.
NT: The Rational Temperament
Overview of the Rational Temperament
The Rational temperament is characterized by a distinct preference for intuitive & thinking functions. Individuals who embody this temperament are highly pragmatic, utilizing their intuitive grasp of complex systems & their analytical thinking to navigate the world. Rationals are often seen as strategic architects of ideas, constantly seeking out knowledge & engaging in the dissection of new concepts. Their strength lies in their ability to not only absorb information but also to apply it in innovative & effective ways, making them adept at problem-solving & theoretical exploration.
As NT types ourselves, we find a deep resonance with the intuitive works of Carl Jung. There’s a profound satisfaction in delving into the abstract & symbolic realms that Jung explored, and then employing logical frameworks to organize these insights into a coherent system. Rationals are systematic thinkers, often driven by the pursuit of understanding & mastery over the subjects that pique their interest. This systematic approach is not just a method of thought, but a way of life, leading to a continuous quest for improvement & optimization in various aspects of their lives.
| Cognitive Function | Use within NT Temperament |
|---|---|
| Extroverted Thinking (Te) | NT types utilize Te to structure their external environment, make logical decisions, and lead with a focus on efficiency and objective outcomes. |
| Introverted Thinking (Ti) | Ti allows NTs to critically analyze information, create internal frameworks, and approach problems with a deeply logical and independent mindset. |
| Extroverted Intuition (Ne) | Ne equips NTs with the ability to envision numerous possibilities, innovate, and recognize patterns and connections in the world around them. |
| Introverted Intuition (Ni) | NT types use Ni to synthesize complex information into focused insights, enabling strategic foresight and long-term visionary planning. |
The NTJ Subtype
The NTJ subtype encompasses two distinct personality types within the Rational temperament: the INTJ and the ENTJ. Both types are united by their shared strengths in Extroverted Thinking (Te) and Introverted Intuition (Ni), making them exceptional at creating and deconstructing systems.
NTJs are the quintessential doers, not content with mere theoretical understanding; they are driven to apply their insights practically, often excelling in roles that require strategic planning and organizational restructuring. With their intuitive grasp of how things work, NTJs are adept at identifying the most efficient pathways to their goals, making them powerful troubleshooters and problem solvers.
Their proactive approach is complemented by a natural ability to foresee potential issues & navigate complex challenges with a clear, logical mindset. Whether it’s an INTJ’s more introspective and conceptual style or an ENTJ’s dynamic and commanding approach, NTJs are invariably focused on optimizing and improving the systems they engage with, always with an eye towards effective action & tangible results.
The NTP Subtype
The NTP subtype includes the INTP and the ENTP personality types. They can be characterized by a focus on external exploration and the ability to make connections across a wide array of seemingly unrelated topics.
Unlike their NTJ counterparts who are inwardly focused on achieving specific goals, NTPs are the quintessential idea generators, their minds constantly leaping from one concept to another in a never-ending quest for knowledge and understanding. They possess a unique blend of creativity and logical analysis, which allows them not only to come up with innovative ideas but also to ensure that these ideas are viable within a logical framework.
NTPs are the explorers of the intellectual realm, with a natural inclination to dive into a variety of subjects, reveling in the intricate connections that bind concepts together. Their creative prowess is matched by a critical thinking ability that enables them to sift through information and retain what is most coherent and compelling. This makes them adept at navigating complex systems and contributing novel insights that often challenge conventional wisdom.
NF: The Idealist Temperament
Overview of the Idealist Temperament
The Idealist temperament is marked by a primary reliance on intuition & feeling functions, which manifest in a distinctive set of social & emotional characteristics. Idealists are deeply attuned to the feelings of others and to the underlying values and ideals that bind people together. They are often the moral compass of their groups, striving for social justice and working tirelessly to maintain harmony within their communities.
This temperament is characterized by a strong sense of empathy and a desire to understand and nurture the potential of others. Idealists are naturally drawn to causes that promote growth, healing, and authenticity, and they frequently find themselves in positions where they can serve as counselors, advocates, and diplomats.
Idealists are deeply connected to the emotional fabric of the group, guided by their intuitive ability to read social cues and their empathetic nature to care for others. Their actions reflect their strong values and desire to serve the greater good, making them ideal candidates for roles that require both understanding and compassion.
| Cognitive Function | Use within NF Temperament |
|---|---|
| Extroverted Feeling (Fe) | NF types use Fe to connect with others, creating empathetic communication and understanding, and often leading with a focus on group harmony and collective values. |
| Introverted Feeling (Fi) | Fi provides NFs with a deep sense of personal values and beliefs, which they use to make decisions that are aligned with their integrity and authenticity. |
| Extroverted Intuition (Ne) | Ne allows NFs to perceive a wealth of possibilities and abstract connections, fueling their imagination and inspiring them to explore potential futures and innovative ideas. |
| Introverted Intuition (Ni) | NF types employ Ni to develop profound insights and visions, often guiding them towards their idealistic goals and helping them understand the deeper meaning behind events and relationships. |
The NFJ Subtype
The NFJ subtype is comprised of the INFJ and the ENFJ personality types within the Idealist temperament, both of which share a natural proficiency in Extroverted Feeling (Fe) and Introverted Intuition (Ni). NFJs are the quintessential empathizers, deeply committed to understanding and nurturing the emotional needs of others, and fostering harmony in their communities.
They are adept at using their strong intuitive insights to guide and inspire those around them, often excelling in roles that involve counseling, teaching, or advocacy. With a visionary approach to life and a strong desire to contribute to the welfare of others, NFJs are often at the heart of social movements, using their interpersonal skills to build consensus and effect positive change.
Whether it’s the introspective depth and complexity of an INFJ or the charismatic and persuasive leadership of an ENFJ, NFJs are united by their drive to actualize their ideals and to help others realize their potential.
The NFP Subtype
The NFP subtype includes the INFP and the ENFP personality types, which are characterized by their use of Introverted Feeling (Fi) and Extroverted Intuition (Ne). NFPs are the quintessential idealists, constantly seeking authenticity and alignment with their core values, and they are highly adept at exploring and generating creative ideas.
Unlike their NFJ counterparts, who focus on external harmony, NFPs are driven by an internal quest for identity and meaning, often expressing themselves through art, writing, or other forms of personal expression. They are curious about the world and its myriad possibilities, using their Ne to draw connections and find inspiration in everything around them. With their strong sense of individualism and a talent for innovative thinking, NFPs are often the catalysts for new and unconventional approaches, always exploring and wondering at the intricacies that tie the world together.
SP: The Artisan Temperament
Overview of the Artisan Temperament
The Artisan temperament is characterized by a primary reliance on Extroverted Sensing and is equally divided between Thinking & Feeling functions, leading to a diverse array of personalities that are adaptable, pragmatic, and focused on the here and now. Artisans are the embodiment of spontaneity & action, often seeking out new experiences and living life with a sense of immediacy & impact.
They are highly attuned to their immediate environment and excel in situations that require good hand-eye coordination, quick reflexes, and the ability to stay present and engaged. Artisans are also known for their artistic abilities, whether in the fine arts, performing arts, or any domain where aesthetics and technique are important.
Craving freedom and individuality, Artisans navigate life with a desire to make their mark on the world in tangible ways. They are often drawn to activities that allow them to express their individuality and to make use of their strong observational skills and keen sense of opportunity. With a natural talent for improvisation and a tendency to live in the moment, Artisans are the most likely to take risks & push boundaries, whether in their personal pursuits or professional endeavors. Their pursuit of freedom is not just a desire for independence, but also a deep-seated need for a space where they can exercise their creativity & make decisions on their own terms.
| Cognitive Function | Use within SP Temperament |
|---|---|
| Extroverted Sensing (Se) | SP types employ Se to immerse themselves in the present, relishing in vivid sensory experiences and reacting swiftly to changes in their environment. |
| Introverted Thinking (Ti) | Ti allows STPs to analyze situations with precision, enabling them to solve problems creatively and with an internal logical framework. |
| Introverted Feeling (Fi) | Fi provides SFPs with a deep sense of personal values, guiding their decisions with authenticity and often leading to a strong aesthetic sense. |
The SFP Subtype
The SFP subtype, including ISFP and ESFP personalities, epitomizes the Artisan temperament’s expressiveness, led by Extroverted Sensing (Se) and supported by Introverted Feeling (Fi). These individuals are adventurers at heart, immersing themselves in the environment for thrill and beauty, and their spontaneity is captivating. Their choices and actions are deeply rooted in personal values, reflecting a commitment to authenticity and individual expression.
SFPs are acutely observant and move through the world with agility, their Se making them responsive to its subtleties. Their Fi lends them a sympathetic nature, guiding them toward activities that fulfill their moral standards & personal creativity. Through arts, performance, or their infectious enthusiasm for life, SFPs infuse their surroundings with energy and warmth, leaving a memorable impact through their genuine interactions.
The STP Subtype
The STP subtype, comprising ISTP and ESTP personalities, is distinguished within the Artisan temperament by tactical adaptability and a sharp perception enabled by Extroverted Sensing (Se). These realist types excel in action-oriented tasks, adeptly handling immediate challenges with skill. Their proficiency with tools and in competitive scenarios is enhanced by their auxiliary Introverted Thinking (Ti), which equips them with logical problem-solving skills to navigate complex situations effectively.
Energetic and unfazed by change, STPs excel in dynamic environments, using their combination of Se and Ti to make rapid, practical decisions. Drawn to fields that allow for hands-on engagement and active problem-solving, such as engineering or emergency services, STPs are the embodiment of practical ingenuity, living boldly and communicating directly.
SJ: The Guardian Temperament
Overview of the Guardian Temperament
The Guardian temperament is characterized by a primary reliance on Introverted Sensing, balanced between Thinking and Feeling functions, which creates a temperament rooted in practicality, duty, and social responsibility. Guardians, which encompass the personality types ISTJ, ISFJ, ESTJ, and ESFJ, are the stabilizing force in many communities, valuing security and the smooth operation of social systems. Their Sensing function allows them to be highly observant of the details in their environment, ensuring that everything runs according to plan. The split between Thinking and Feeling in Guardians means that some, like the ISTJ and ESTJ, approach situations with a focus on logic and order, while others, such as the ISFJ and ESFJ, are more oriented towards providing support and maintaining interpersonal harmony.
Guardians are driven by a deep-seated need for stability and are often the upholders of cultural traditions and the status quo, reflecting their placement in the Alpha and Beta Quadras. They are traditionalists at heart, often finding satisfaction in roles that allow them to preserve and transmit the values and customs that knit the fabric of society together. Whether it’s through their meticulous attention to detail in maintaining systems and structures, or their caring nature in looking after the well-being of others, Guardians ensure that the foundations upon which societies are built remain strong and reliable. Their commitment to their roles and responsibilities makes them indispensable in creating and sustaining a sense of continuity and order in an ever-changing world.
| Cognitive Function | Use within SJ Temperament |
|---|---|
| Introverted Sensing (Si) | SJ types employ Si to absorb and recall past experiences, creating a stable and reliable framework from which to operate and maintain consistency in their environment. |
| Extroverted Thinking (Te) | Te allows STJs to organize and structure the external world, making logical and efficient decisions, and often leading with a focus on order and practicality. |
| Extroverted Feeling (Fe) | Fe provides SFJs with the ability to connect with others, fostering social harmony and responding to the emotional needs of the community with warmth and consideration. |
The STJ Subtype
The STJ subtype, consisting of ISTJ and ESTJ personality types within the Guardian temperament, is defined by a dominant Introverted Sensing (Si) function and an auxiliary Extroverted Thinking (Te) function. STJs are the quintessential organizers, taking a methodical and detail-oriented approach to life that ensures stability and adherence to established systems. ISTJs apply their Si to remember and use past experiences to inform present responsibilities, while ESTJs use their Te to manage and direct tasks and people efficiently, making them natural leaders in structured environments.
Both ISTJs and ESTJs are known for their reliability and a conservative bent, favoring tried-and-true methods over untested innovations. Their Si provides a deep sense of historical continuity, which they use to maintain and uphold traditions and standards. With Te, they implement and enforce these structures, ensuring that every process is executed with precision, leading to the achievement of collective goals with a clear, organized approach.
The SFJ Subtype: The Protectors
The SFJ subtype within the Guardian temperament encompasses the ISFJ and ESFJ personality types, characterized by their dominant Introverted Sensing (Si) and auxiliary Extroverted Feeling (Fe). SFJs are the archetypal nurturers and protectors, deeply committed to the welfare and harmony of the groups to which they belong. ISFJs utilize their Si to store and recall detailed memories, using this rich historical context to care for others, while ESFJs employ their Fe to actively harmonize their environment, often taking on roles that cater to the needs and feelings of those around them.
SFJs are known for their warmth and their strong sense of duty, upholding social conventions and ensuring that the needs of the community are met. Their Si helps them create and maintain a stable and secure environment, while their Fe drives them to build strong interpersonal relationships, often leading to positions where they act as the social glue within a group. With a natural inclination towards service, SFJs are the cornerstone of many social institutions, dedicating themselves to traditions that reinforce unity and collective well-being.
Compatibility In The 4 Temperaments
Below we consider the unique asymmetry of the Keirsey system, where SP & SJ temperaments combine thinking & feeling types, unlike the NT & NF groupings. This distinction plays a crucial role in understanding how different temperaments may align or clash. For a deeper dive into how personality types mesh in relationships, check out our detailed article on type compatibility.
NT & NF Dynamics
NTs and NFs within the Keirsey Temperament framework present a fascinating case of compatibility due to their opposing cognitive functions, which align with distinct Socionics Quadras. NTs, with their use of both introverted and extroverted thinking (Ti and Te) as well as intuition (Ni and Ne), fall into the Alpha and Gamma Quadras. These shared functions within the NT temperament foster a high level of compatibility, particularly between NTJs and NTPs, who are often on the same wavelength when it comes to logical analysis and abstract thinking.
NFs, wielding both forms of feeling (Fi and Fe) and intuition (Ni and Ne), are part of the Beta and Delta Quadras, creating strong bonds between NFPs and NFJs based on shared values and empathetic understanding. While NTJs and NFPs, or NTPs and NFJs, might not find the same level of compatibility due to their similar thinking and feeling functions, they can still enjoy meaningful connections. These pairings, though not as naturally compatible as others within their respective temperaments, can offer a balanced perspective, combining their similar decision-making processes with their distinct approaches to life and relationships.
SP & ST Dynamics
In the realm of SP (Artisan) and SJ (Guardian) temperaments, compatibility takes on a different form compared to the NT and NF temperaments. SPs and SJs do not typically find the same level of compatibility within their own groups; that is, SPs are not as compatible with other SPs, nor are SJs with other SJs. Instead, the compatibility tends to extend across these two temperaments, with SPs often forming complementary partnerships with SJs, united by their shared Sensing preference that grounds their experiences in the tangible world.
Drilling down, it’s the ST types within the SP and SJ categories that sync up well, such as an ESTP (SP) finding commonality with an ISTJ (SJ) in their practical and logical approach. Similarly, the SF types within both temperaments also pair harmoniously, exemplified by an ESFP (SP) resonating with the nurturing and supportive nature of an ISFJ or even an ESFJ (SJ). These connections underscore the shared Sensing function’s role in fostering a practical bond, bridging the gap between the SP’s adaptability and the SJ’s dependability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why SP & SJ Instead of SF & ST?
Keirsey’s temperament theory categorizes types based on observable behaviors and temperaments, rather than cognitive functions. This explains why SPs &SJs are not divided into thinking and feeling categories like NTs & NFs. So, while the system is not symmetrical on paper, it makes sense as 4 observable archetypes, although it is debatable by many in the MBTI community.
Can a person’s temperament change over time?
A person’s primary temperament remains constant over time, deeply rooted in their personality. However, through cognitive transitions, as described by the four sides of the mind theory, an individual such as an INTJ (NT) can exhibit behaviors of their shadow (ENTP, another NT), aspirational (ESFP, an SP), or super-ego (ISFJ, an SJ) sides, reflecting different temperaments in specific contexts. These transitions are not changes in temperament but rather the activation of different facets of their complex personality.
How does Keirsey’s Temperament Theory apply in the workplace?
Keirsey’s Temperament Theory aids in aligning workplace roles with employees’ intrinsic strengths and improving team dynamics by understanding personality-driven behaviors and preferences. It serves as a tool for managers to customize their leadership approach, enhancing motivation and productivity among diverse temperament types.
How do the temperaments interact with each other?
The MBTI four temperaments interact with each other by balancing complementary traits, where, for example, the Idealist’s (NF) empathy and vision can mesh well with the Rational’s (NT) logical problem-solving. In contrast, Artisans (SPs) and Guardians (SJs) share a Sensing preference, which can lead to practical partnerships despite their differing approaches to spontaneity and structure.
Conclusion
In summary, the Keirsey Temperament Theory provides an invaluable system for observing and understanding the diverse personalities we encounter. By learning about the compatibilities between SPs and SJs, such as the synergy between ST and SF types, we gain insight into how different individuals can complement and enhance each other’s lives.
Recognizing an ESFP’s (SP) potential compatibility with an ISFJ or ESFJ (SJ) illustrates the practical applications of this knowledge in fostering successful relationships. The benefits of this system extend beyond personal insights, offering strategies for improved communication and collaboration in various social and professional settings. Embracing this framework equips us with the tools to appreciate the unique contributions of each temperament, leading to more harmonious & productive interactions.
