Enneagram Theory & Personality Dynamics Flashcards

What is the 'trifix' concept in Enneagram theory?

Answer: One dominant type from each of the three centers forming a person's three-type stack

Trifix (developed by Katherine Fauvre) posits that each person has a dominant type from each center—head, heart, and body—which together shape a unique personality flavor.

A Type Two in an interpersonal conflict is likely to first experience which internal sequence?

Answer: Pride in their giving → resentment when unacknowledged → need suppression

Twos typically move from unconscious pride in their helpfulness to resentment when their giving goes unrecognized, while suppressing awareness of their own needs.

In Enneagram wing theory, how does a wing function differently from a stress/security type?

Answer: Wings are adjacent types that color the core type's style; stress/security types indicate directional movement under pressure or growth

Wings are the adjacent types on the circle that shade the core type's personality flavor and are generally more stable, while stress and security arrows show dynamic movement patterns.

Which description best captures the Type Eight's relationship to vulnerability?

Answer: Eights deny and defend against vulnerability because it feels like dangerous weakness

Type Eight's core strategy involves armoring against vulnerability, perceiving it as an opening for harm or control by others, which drives their powerful, assertive outer presentation.

What is the significance of the Enneagram's inner lines (hexad) as distinct from the triangle?

Answer: The hexad connects types 1-4-2-8-5-7 and shows the law of seven process lines

The hexad connects types 1-4-2-8-5-7 in that sequence, illustrating the Law of Seven, while the triangle (3-6-9) reflects points where processes encounter intervals requiring additional input.

A CNET teacher facilitating a panel notices a participant describing a behavior but not the inner motivation. The teacher's best next move is to:

Answer: Invite the participant to explore what was wanted or feared underneath the behavior

The Narrative approach prioritizes inner motivation over behavior; an effective facilitator guides participants deeper into the 'why' beneath the 'what' of their actions.

Type Seven's 'reframing' defense mechanism serves primarily to:

Answer: Escape painful limitations and negative feelings by shifting focus to positive possibilities

Sevens unconsciously reframe pain, limitation, and suffering into positive alternatives as a defense against the fear of being trapped in emotional distress.