Is MBTI Reliable?

Analysis on the reliability of MBTI personality test.

Is MBTI Reliable?

MBTI, short for Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, was developed by Katharine Briggs and Isabel Briggs Myers in the 1940s. It classifies people's personalities into 16 types. The assessment is done through questionnaires, mapping answers onto two directions of four dimensions (E-I, S-N, T-F, J-P). However, this tool has always been controversial. So, is MBTI really reliable? Let's analyze from multiple angles.

First, the repeatability of MBTI questionnaires is not good. A recent study shows that only 10% to 40% of people will get the same result after some time. This means that if you take the questionnaire at different times, you may get completely different results. It also implies that over time, you may find that your personality has changed to varying degrees, making the test results unreliable.

Second, the scientific nature of MBTI is questioned. Although MBTI is based on many psychological theories, there is not enough scientific research to support its validity. The standardization of this test is minimal, and the test questions have not been experimentally verified and modified. Moreover, this test has not undergone sufficient experimental research to measure its effectiveness. Therefore, whether it is a valid personality scale still requires more scientific analysis and research support.

Third, the binary identifiers of MBTI (such as E and I, S and N, etc.) may be too simplistic. Such an approach can lead people to draw wrong conclusions because many people do not completely fit into any single classification. In this case, if you choose the wrong answer, you may get the wrong test result, that is, a result that does not match your personality.

Finally, the results of MBTI may bring biases and fixed impressions. If you are overly confident in the results of MBTI, it will cause your behavior and attitude to be restricted by the results. This situation will lead people to form fixed impressions of others regardless of their daily behaviors. For example, if a person is classified as INTJ type, they may be regarded as rational, wise, and firm people. Such stereotypes cannot truly reflect their actual personalities.

In conclusion, although MBTI may have some credibility in certain aspects, it is not a very effective personality measurement tool. There are some significant flaws in its design and testing. Therefore, if you want to use this test, you should be reserved and not fully trust its results.