In the article Fictional Character Development and Personality the Myers Briggs Personality Tool was described as one way for developing characters traits and habits. This article is the third, which outlines four of the sixteen profiles and gives some idea of how they may manifest themselves in terms of personality. The first and second articles can be found following the highlighted links links.
Characters – Strategists
Characters of this profile have preferences for Introversion, Intuition, Thinking and Perceiving (INTP). You will often find this character asking the question ‘Why?’ and Why not?’ They dislike small talk and gossip. They are very quick logical thinkers and have a clear focus. Strategists are very good at solving complex problems and enjoy the challenge, often seeking new issues. They are not afraid of challenging others’ beliefs and despite appearing very quiet and reserved can be very tough.
Characters – Idealists
The INFP profile is one of the more quiet characters in the MBTI house of type. They make decisions based on their personal values However beware, if their principles are threatened in any way, they will fight back with surprising force. These characters are hard to get to know and they may appear very remote. Their ideals drive them and the choices they make in life and are always searching for the right way. They never give up on their ideals and have very little regard for material possessions or surroundings. Despite their distant nature, they have a warm sense of humour and are fiercely loyal.
Characters – Peacemakers
This profile has preferences for Intuition, Sensing, Feeling and Perceiving (ISFP). Again a quiet character but one who tends to go with the flow and deferring to others. They are good helping others and tend to dislike confrontation or conflict. Peacemakers are compassionate, open and flexible characters who never force their opinions on others. Characters with these traits will be rather quiet but friendly and enjoy the company of single friends.
Characters - Resolvers
The ISTP profile prefers deal with facts and will make decisions based upon solid evidence. They are inquisitive by nature, like to understand how things work, and so are often good with mechanical gadgets. You will often find one of these characters taking something apart, only to put it back together again. They quietly observe what is going on around them and are curious about most things. They have a great quirky humour and can be rather unpredictable. This character will not like to be tied down by people, structures or schedules and at times are impulsive.
These four profiles describe some of the ways in which characters with similar personalities might behave. Using the Myers Briggs indicator is just one way to add depth to characters. Other tools include the use of zodiac signs, which will be covered in a later article.
