The Influence of MBTI: From Social Circles to Service Industries
MBTI has gained popularity among young people and has extended its influence to the service industry. This article explores its role in social interactions and its limitations.
MBTI's Growing Flame: From Social Circles to Service Industries
In today's world, MBTI has become an increasingly popular topic among young people. This personality typing system has not only made waves in social circles but has also extended its reach into the service industry.
The Rise of MBTI in Social Circles
For many young people like Xiaozhu and Suxi, MBTI has become an essential part of their social lives. Xiaozhu, a sophomore majoring in finance at East China Normal University, is a loyal fan of MBTI. She has taken many tests and uses the four letters to introduce herself and understand others. Suxi, a first-year graduate student majoring in broadcasting, gained popularity on Douyin with her introduction video that included her MBTI type. Almost all her classmates also introduced their MBTI types, which helped them quickly establish common topics and initial impressions.
MBTI is based on the eight personality theories of psychologist Carl Jung and is divided into four dimensions: attention direction, cognitive style, judgment style, and lifestyle. Each dimension has two directions, resulting in 16 different personality patterns. It has been widely used in career development, team building, relationship counseling, and education.
MBTI as a Social Tool
In social situations, young people often use MBTI to quickly understand others and make initial judgments. For example, if someone is an 'i person', others know to be more active in communication. However, differences between 'T' (rational) people and 'F' (emotional) people can sometimes cause problems in interactions. Despite its limitations, MBTI can save time and make social interactions more efficient.
MBTI in the Service Industry
The popularity of MBTI has also influenced the service industry. Brands like DR钻戒 and Haidilao have introduced services tailored to different personality types. DR's 'companion rose' service caters to 'i people' by allowing them to shop without being followed by salespeople. Haidilao's 'EI partitioned waiting area' service divides waiting areas for 'i people' and 'e people' to provide a better viewing experience.
MBTI as a Mirror
MBTI is not only a tool for understanding others but also a mirror for reflecting one's own personality changes. Xiaozhu and Suxi have both experienced changes in their MBTI types due to personal experiences. Xiaozhu's personality shifted from 'F' (emotional) to 'T' (rational) after a personal tragedy. Suxi's MBTI type changed from 'ENFP' to 'ENTJ' after experiencing relationship problems.
Limitations of MBTI
Although MBTI is popular, there are also debates about its scientific nature. Lingjie, the host of a MBTI super topic on Weibo, has pointed out that MBTI tests are not always accurate. The questions in the tests may not be applicable to everyone, and people's choices are often influenced by preferences rather than absolute traits. Personality is complex and not as simple as the four dimensions of MBTI suggest.
In conclusion, MBTI has become a significant phenomenon in both social circles and the service industry. While it has its uses as a social tool and a mirror for self-reflection, its limitations should also be recognized.