MBTI S1-2 Understanding MBTI Beyond Stereotypes: Barnum effect

Are you trusting what the Internet tells you?

What is Barnum effect?

The Barnum effect is when people believe that vague or general statements about personality apply specifically to them, even though those statements could describe almost anyone.

This is also relevant to stereotypes. Many online descriptions of MBTI consist of vague statements that you might find agreeable, without noticing that they might also apply to other MBTI types or to people in general. Here are a few examples.

1. INFPs (one of the MBTI types) possess rich inner worlds. They are creative. The like imagining things. They often daydream. They craft stories and dialogues within their minds.

How is this description vague or general, which is an example of "Barnum effect"?

• Creativity, imagination, and daydreaming are universal experiences shared by people and not confined to a single personality type. Everyone is creative in their own ways.

• The traits are mostly broad and positive, which are more likely to be accepted. Such descriptions can feel personally meaningful but apply to a wide range of individuals.

2. ESTJs are reliable, responsible, and hardworking individuals. They have a strong work ethic and can juggle multiple tasks or jobs while still making time for hobbies—often practical ones that help sharpen their skills. They dislike laziness and constantly strive to overcome their weaknesses.

How is this description vague or general, which is an example of "Barnum effect"?

• This description highlights common positive stereotypes that many people might recognize or identify with, illustrating how such broad traits can feel personally relevant but apply widely—an example of the Barnum effect.

Through these two examples, we can observe how many online personality tests today often portray MBTI types with statements like these, which can mislead people a lot.

Why do MBTI tests provide unclear descriptions?

It is marketing!

• People generally favor ego boosts and having great emotional experiences rather than the truth. Some online tests aim to make you feel understood so that you are interested in buying their stories or products.

• Online test websites do not want to receive criticism from people. The best way is to make the statements open to many possible interpretations.

Does Barnum effect in tests reduce the credibility of MBTI?

The answer is: Barnum effect in most MBTI tests reduces the credibility of the online MBTI test, but not the MBTI theory.

• The MBTI theory is based on two core concepts: cognitive functions and their positions in the cognitive stack. Understanding all cognitive functions and cognitive stacks provides way more insights without the necessity of any online tests.

• These two concepts redefine the core of MBTI, allowing you to explain all your thought patterns through the framework of your cognitive functions in various positions in the cognitive stack.

How should we approach the MBTI?

1. Avoid falling prey to Barnum effects. Be cautious about fully trusting content on platforms like Instagram and short videos, as they may reinforce stereotypes and aim to engage people for traffic.

2. Understand all cognitive functions. Reflect on your experiences when engaging each cognitive function. Information about cognitive functions can be found online, and I will discuss them in detail in the future.

3. Grasp each position in your cognitive stack. This helps you unlock your potential and activate cognitive functions you may have overlooked. Since many online descriptions of the cognitive stack can be unclear, I will also explain this concept in the future.

4. Approach MBTI with experience and thoughtful reflection. Do not overlook any confusion, as it can signify a blind spot or an opportunity for growth through confusion.

I genuinely hope that your journey of self-discovery through MBTI brings you valuable insights and a deeper understanding of yourself. Wishing you all the best on this meaningful path!