The Enneagram: A Primer for Psychiatry Residents

Abstract

The Enneagram is a personality theory describing nine strategies by which the psyche develops a worldview and relates to self and others. Each of the nine "types" has a basic fear, basic desire, and predictable behavior pattern in times of stress and security—all of which shape motivations underlying behavior. The Enneagram has been used by psychiatrists since the 1970s. The authors summarize the Enneagram theory, review the history and literature validating its use, and suggest areas for application in psychiatry, including diagnosis and psychotherapy. As the Enneagram becomes increasingly popular, clinicians will benefit from knowledge about the system.