And finally, Patrick Kerwin shared the criticism that the MBTI® tool is not predictive of behavior. Guess, what? It’s not meant to predict behavior. Instead, the MBTI tool is about giving us some understanding around how we take in information (Perceiving processes of S-N) and make decisions (Judging processes of T-F). Isabel Briggs Myers called this “clearer perceptions” and “sounder judgments.” If you try to apply the MBTI tool beyond that, you are overstepping its purpose.
So, yes…we agree. The MBTI tool does not predict behavior. However, we have plenty of very rich data showing that certain types are attracted to certain occupations, and it’s readily available. As one colleague in our Research division likes to say, “Just read the manual.” This attraction to careers by type can be invaluable in the career exploration process. I use the MBTI assessment as a career tool, but I always combine it with the Strong Interest Inventory®assessment. The MBTI tool helps me explore a client’s motivations, while the Strong adds vocational interests. Together, these tools can be very powerful for individuals engaged in career exploration.
Want to read more about the Users Conference? Check out my previous blogs in this series:
- MBTI® Users Conference—Type, Interpersonal Needs, and Stress: A FIRO-B® and MBTI® Workplace Culture Connection
- MBTI® Users Conference—“Culture Matters” Panel: Macro and Micro Perspectives
- MBTI® Users Conference—Networking and the Step II™ Receiving Facet Challenge
- MBTI® Users Conference—Creating a Culture of Clarity / It’s Not Meant to Be Predictive
- MBTI® Users Conference—Creating a Culture of Clarity / It Is Reliable
- MBTI® Users Conference—Creating a Culture of Clarity / It Doesn’t Just Flatter You
- MBTI® Users Conference—Creating a Culture of Clarity / Where’s the Research?
- MBTI® Users Conference—Creating a Culture of Clarity / Clinical Psychology Criticism
- MBTI® Users Conference—Creating a Culture of Clarity / Ambiverts?
- MBTI® Users Conference—Creating a Culture of Clarity / Type Dynamics
- MBTI® Users Conference—Creating a Culture of Clarity / Proper Type Language
- MBTI® Users Conference—Creating a Culture of Clarity
- MBTI® Users Conference—Communication Breakthroughs: The Genesis for Better Understanding of Others
- MBTI® Users Conference—From Diversity to Inclusion to Engagement
- MBTI® Users Conference—The Art of Culture Hacking
- MBTI® Users Conference—A Step II™ Day
- MBTI® Users Conference—Culture Matters
- MBTI® Users Conference—What I'm Thankful For