Tuesday, November 24, 2015

MBTI: SJ Temperament


                One of the primary concerns of the SJ is to belong – yet not simply for himself (that is, because of who he is), but because he has worked to belong and deserves it. The attitude of an SJ often tends towards being parental, with a longing to be needed. They almost desire to be “bound and obligated.”[1] A deeply rooted belief in hierarchy is a sizable part of what makes an SJ function.
                SJs tend to be a little pessimistic in all they do, or at least, the strongest SJs are. This comes partially from a strong sense of reality. They long and strive to be prepared for anything that may occur. They want to be useful, to belong in the groups they are near.
                One unique characteristic of the SJ is that he feels strongly that it is “his duty to give, serve, and care for.”[2] He does not like to accept care from others, since he is, in his own mind, the one who should be giving it. They have a strong sense of caring, especially for the very young and old. It is the SJs who conserve and save, most especially in any line of work they may be in: pastor, accountant, banker, manager, medical fields, etc. Often they may end up in a position of some power, revealing themselves to be conservative in spending and life in general. They are also very responsible, but often without the thanks and appreciation that such responsibility should receive. This responsibility results in many SJs being teachers, librarians, dentists, or entering other solidly respectable lines of work.

                One of their most distinguishing characteristics is their passion for tradition. To an SJ, history is of the utmost importance. They want to learn the lessons of history and put them to practical use. And, to an SJ, tradition is there and inherently rooted somehow in history.


[1] David Keirsey and Marilyn Bates, Please Understand Me: Character & Temperament Types, (Del Mar: Prometheus Nemesis Book Company, 1984), page 40.
[2] David Keirsey and Marilyn Bates, Please Understand Me: Character & Temperament Types, (Del Mar: Prometheus Nemesis Book Company, 1984), page 42.

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