Jordan Peterson & The Big Five Test: The Gold Standard for Personality

Have you ever heard of the Big Five personality test from Jordan Peterson’s perspective? If you’re interested in a deeper understanding of yourself or those around you, the ideas of one of today’s most famous psychologists might be a turning point in your journey. In this article, we’ll cover what Peterson says about this test, why he sees it as the best model, and his bold opinions on the famous MBTI test.

What is the Personality Test Recommended by Peterson?

The Big Five is a scientific tool that measures five key personality dimensions: Openness to Experience, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism. Jordan Peterson believes these dimensions accurately reflect how we think, feel, and act, considering them the “gold standard” in modern psychology. Peterson didn’t just stick to theory; he co-created a practical test called “Understand Myself,” used by millions worldwide to discover their personality patterns.

Why Does Peterson Believe the Big Five Model is Best?

Peterson states, “There are five personality traits, and they are the most scientifically tested and studied tools to date.” Instead of rigid classifications, this model gives you a nuanced picture of your behaviors. Researchers have used this test to predict individuals’ success at work and in their social relationships. For example, someone high in Openness might be creative and innovative but could struggle to build a stable identity.

The Story Behind Peterson’s Rejection of the MBTI Model

One of the most controversial points in Peterson’s lectures is his public criticism of the MBTI test. Peterson states that this model is “outdated and inaccurate,” focusing on putting people into fixed boxes while humans are far more complex. In one interview, he said, “The MBTI is not scientifically valid and is often used for entertainment more than as a serious analytical tool.” He believes the Big Five model is better because it provides clear scores for each trait, reflecting the true diversity of human beings.

Inspiring Quotes and Stories

Peterson captivates people with his direct style. One of his famous quotes is: “You are responsible for making your principles clear, so you are not taken inappropriate advantage of, and so you can be secure while you work and play.” In another lecture, he summarizes the journey of self-discovery: “You have to determine where you are going in your life because you cannot get there unless you move in that direction.” He emphasizes that the Big Five is a realistic map to help you know your strengths and challenges.

Why Should You Try the Big Five Test?

Whether you’re looking for self-development or a way to understand others, the Big Five test offers realistic insights. It’s not a magic trick, but it’s one of the most validated tools, and Peterson considers it a key to genuine understanding and facing life’s complexities. It doesn’t give you a final answer on “who you are,” but rather provides a map to help you develop yourself and better understand your choices.

Keywords: Jordan Peterson Big Five test, personality analysis, Peterson on MBTI, self-development, self-understanding.