The Impact of Psychological Trauma on Dichotomies in the 16 Personality Types Model

Psychological trauma can significantly influence the expression of personality traits described in the 16 personality types model. These changes can affect all four key dichotomies: extraversion-introversion, sensing-intuition, thinking-feeling, and judging-perceiving. Let's explore how trauma impacts each of these dichotomies.

Extraversion-Introversion

Extroverts who experience traumatic events may become more reserved and inclined towards solitude, exhibiting traits more characteristic of introverts. For instance, a previously active and sociable person might begin to avoid social interactions due to increased anxiety or feelings of insecurity. Research conducted by the University of California found that victims of violence often exhibit introverted traits even if they were previously extroverted (BMC Psychiatry).

Sensing-Intuition

Trauma also affects the preference for sensing or intuition. People inclined towards sensing may become more detail-oriented and focused on reality, avoiding abstract thinking. Conversely, intuitives might retreat into fantasies and abstractions to escape painful memories. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology noted that individuals who experienced severe trauma often show changes in their cognitive style (ScienceDirect).

Thinking-Feeling

Thinkers who undergo traumatic experiences may become more emotional and focused on interpersonal relationships. Feelers may start using a logical approach to rationalize their emotions. A Harvard University study found that thinkers, after trauma, often demonstrate increased emotional sensitivity typical of feelers, while feelers begin to employ logical reasoning to analyze their experiences (Frontiers).

Judging-Perceiving

Judgers may become less organized and more spontaneous, avoiding rigid structures. Perceivers, on the other hand, may seek more organization and control. Research published in the Journal of Personality Psychology shows that after trauma, perceivers often seek stability and predictability, shifting towards more judging behaviors, while judgers avoid strict structures, seeking greater flexibility and spontaneity (BMC Psychiatry).

The Impact of Trauma Experienced in Adulthood

While childhood traumas have profound and long-lasting impacts on personality, traumas experienced in adulthood can have an even more significant effect on the expression of dichotomies. For example, a person who experiences a traumatic event in their 40s may shift from being an extrovert to exhibiting "acquired" introversion.

Adult trauma can lead to serious changes in personality. For instance, someone who was an extrovert throughout their life might become introverted after a traumatic event, such as the loss of a loved one, a serious illness, or violence. In such cases, there is a reevaluation of life values and ways of interacting with the world.

Example: A study published in the journal "Frontiers in Psychology" noted that adults who experienced trauma later in life often show significant personality changes. Those who were extroverts might become more reserved and cautious in social interactions, displaying traits typical of introversion (Frontiers).

Conclusion

Psychological trauma can significantly alter the expression of dichotomies in the 16 personality types model. These changes can be temporary or long-term, depending on the severity of the trauma and individual personality traits. Understanding these changes is crucial for psychologists and therapists working with trauma survivors to provide effective support and assistance.

Sources

• Study on the impact of violence on personality traits - University of California BMC Psychiatry
• Impact of trauma on cognitive style - Journal of Clinical Psychology ScienceDirect
• Thinking-feeling dichotomy after trauma - Harvard University Frontiers
• Judging-perceiving after trauma - Journal of Personality Psychology BMC Psychiatry