Fact Check: Enneagram is fake and not based on real psychology. Enneargram is based on mysticism and is pseudoscience.

Fact Check: "Enneagram is fake and not based on real psychology. Enneagram is based on mysticism and is pseudoscience."

What We Know

The Enneagram is a personality typology that categorizes individuals into nine distinct personality types. It has gained popularity in both personal development and business contexts, often touted for its potential to enhance self-awareness and interpersonal relationships. However, the scientific community has raised significant concerns regarding its validity and reliability. A systematic review of the literature found "mixed evidence of reliability and validity" for the Enneagram, with some studies indicating that it may be helpful for personal and spiritual growth, while others noted that factor analytic work typically identified fewer than nine factors, challenging the model's foundational claims (Hook et al., 2021).

The origins of the Enneagram are rooted in mysticism, with its contemporary form largely derived from the teachings of Oscar Ichazo and Claudio Naranjo, who integrated various spiritual and psychological concepts into their interpretations (Wikipedia). This blending of mysticism with psychological typology has led many experts to classify the Enneagram as pseudoscience, primarily due to the lack of empirical support and rigorous psychometric evaluation (Whitaker, Shermer).

Analysis

The claim that the Enneagram is "fake" and not based on real psychology stems from its classification as pseudoscience by various academic sources. The Enneagram has been criticized for its lack of empirical validation, with limited peer-reviewed studies supporting its claims about distinct personality types and their underlying motivations (Psychology Today). Critics argue that while some individuals may find personal value in the Enneagram for self-discovery, this does not equate to scientific legitimacy.

Moreover, the Enneagram's historical roots in mysticism raise questions about its scientific basis. The model incorporates elements from various spiritual traditions, which can detract from its credibility in the eyes of psychologists and researchers who prioritize evidence-based practices (Wikipedia, Whitaker).

However, it is important to note that some studies have shown partial alignment with established psychological theories, such as the Big Five personality traits, suggesting that there may be some merit to the Enneagram's insights, albeit limited (Hook et al., 2021). This complexity indicates that while the Enneagram may not be a scientifically validated tool, it could still offer subjective benefits to individuals seeking personal growth.

Conclusion

The verdict on the claim that "Enneagram is fake and not based on real psychology" is Partially True. While it is accurate to describe the Enneagram as lacking empirical support and being rooted in mysticism, it is also true that some individuals find value in its application for personal development. The Enneagram's classification as pseudoscience is supported by its limited validation in the academic community, yet its practical utility for self-exploration cannot be entirely dismissed.