As an INFJ, I believe that understanding personality types can significantly help create deep and compelling characters. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator framework, commonly known as MBTI, is a widely-used tool that can aid in character development.

In this blog, I’ll delve into how this framework can be used to develop personality types and how they can be effectively incorporated into a character’s development.

Understanding the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator 📊

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator is a personality test that categorizes people into one of 16 personality types. These personalities are formed based on four pairs of contrasting traits: extraversion vs. introversion, sensing vs. intuition, thinking vs. feeling, and judging vs. perceiving.

Extraversion vs. Introversion 🌞🌜

The first pair of traits refers to how people get their energy. Extraverts gain energy from being around others and in social situations, while introverts recharge by being alone and in quieter environments.

Sensing vs. Intuition 🤔🤯

This pair of traits refers to how people take in and process information. Sensing individuals focus on the information that comes through their five senses, while intuitive individuals rely more on their intuition and gut instincts.

Thinking vs. Feeling 💭❤️

The third pair of traits concerns how people make decisions and evaluate information. Thinking individuals make decisions more based on logic and objectivity, while feeling individuals rely on emotions and personal values.

Judging vs. Perceiving ✔️❌

The final pair of traits refers to how people prefer to organize their lives. Judging individuals prefer to plan, be organized, and make decisions, while perceiving individuals are more flexible and adaptable.

Using MBTI to Develop Characters 🧍‍♀️🧍‍♂️

Using the MBTI framework to develop characters can provide a lot of depth to their personalities, making them feel more real and relatable. Below are some tips on how to use this framework:

Determine Your Character’s Personality Type 🧐

The first step in developing a character using MBTI is to determine their personality type. This can be done by taking a personality test or by reading about the different personality types and determining which one fits your character best.

Use Traits to Shape Your Character’s Thoughts and Actions 🧠💭

Once you have established your character’s personality type, use the traits associated with their type to shape their thoughts and actions. This can be done by thinking about how your character might react in certain situations based on their personality type.

Add Nuances to Your Character’s Personality 🌟🔍

While the MBTI framework can be a great tool for character development, it’s important to remember that not everyone will fit perfectly into their personality type. As a writer, it’s essential to add nuances to your character’s personality to make them feel more complex and real.

Incorporate Personality into Dialogue and Interactions 💬👥

Finally, once you have developed your character’s personality, make sure to incorporate it into their dialogue and interactions with other characters. This will help their personality feel integrated into the story and make them feel like a fully-fleshed out character.

Final Thoughts 💭

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator is a powerful tool for developing fictional characters. By using the traits associated with each personality type, writers can create realistic and relatable characters that readers will connect with.

Remember to consider that personality types are not the only factor that shapes character development. There are many other personal experiences that can shape an individual’s persona. Use MBTI as a tool for creating round and multidimensional characters.

A close-up of a person typing on a laptop keyboard

Overall, using the MBTI framework to create characters is an excellent way to add depth and complexity to your story. By incorporating the traits of personality types into how your characters think, feel, and act, readers can better understand and connect with your characters.