Subtypes

The Enneagram model includes characteristic patterns of behaviour for each type, known as subtypes. These subtypes are categorised as Self-preservation, One to one or Social bonding. They are another set of behaviours that may release or cover up mental fixations and emotional passions, which we project on to the world and use as a coping strategy.  

These subtypes describe our main priorities – the people and projects most important to us. All three subtypes will be present in us, and we use all three instincts in daily activities in life, but one is more dominant and influences how we express our personality type. Two of the subtypes go with the flow of energy of the fixation and passion, and one goes against it and doesn’t look like the others, and is known as the countertype. 

For some people their preferred subtype is obvious to them, but for others it may take time to explore and discover this. Since we are not always able to see ourselves objectively, it may be helpful to have some feedback from those who know us well. 

Even if we identify with each subtype there will be a dominant one. Our attention will shift from one subtype to another, depending on our circumstances and we may spend a long period of time in one subtype before moving to another, but if we look back over our lives, there will be one, which is the most important and compelling to us overall.

Self-preservation: (taste/smell)

– survival and material security instinct. One person.

Instinct is for basic survival needs such as the home, family and health. Energy goes into family environment, food, shopping, personal possessions, daily rhythms, warmth, well-being, financial stability. Focus is on safety and security issues, avoiding danger and maintaining a sense of structure. 

One to One: (touch)

– bonding instinct. Two people.  

Instinct is for quality relationships with one other person, physical relationships and our spiritual relationship. Energy goes into intimate and intense relationships on a one to one basis, physical attraction, spiritual union, gender identity, creation, vision and inspiration. 

Social bonding: (sight and sound)

– herd instinct. Three or more people. 

The instinct is for the world outside the immediate family and home. Energy goes into extended family, world issues, belonging to a group, community, role in society, need for status, meetings, committees, teams, social gatherings, networking, social structures, systems, rules. Concerned about how much power and status one has relative to others.