Which of the Myers-Briggs personality types are the most talkative? Many people mistakenly assume that Extraversion – Introversion is the only relevant factor when it comes to this topic.
While acknowledging that there will be variations in talkativeness according to the context of a situation, there are several personality preferences / functions that generally affect talkativeness and sociability. In addition to Extraverts (E) generally talking more than Introverts (I), I will contend that Intuitives (N), Judgers (J), and types using Extraverted Feeling (Fe) are more talkative than Sensors (S), Perceivers (P), and types using Introverted Feeling (Fi).
Intuitives (N) More Talkative than Sensors (S)
On average, Intuitives tend to talk more than Sensing types. The abstract capacities of intuition contribute to linguistic proficiency, as well as a penchant for verbally exploring and communicating ideas. One can readily witness this difference in talkativeness, for instance, between ESP (i.e., ESFP & ESTP) and ENP (i.e., ENTP & ENFP) types. ESPs, whose dominant function is Extraverted Sensing (Se), tend to be more interested in securing novel sensory stimulation or engaging in physical action. While ESPs can be well-spoken, they are typically less chatty or verbally explorative than ENPs.
Judgers (J) More Talkative than Perceivers (P)
Generally speaking, Judging types are more “left-brained” than Perceiving types. The left brain is associated with language and verbal forms of communication. The right brain is more body-based and uses non-verbal (e.g., visual / kinesthetic) types of communication.
Since J types judge rather than perceive outwardly, they generally prefer to talk more than listen. Intuitive Judgers (NJ types), in particular, can launch into lengthy diatribes on all sorts of topics. Such differences are most readily observed in one-on-one conversations. All factors being equal (e.g., E-I, S-N, T-F), J types do more of the talking while Perceivers intermittently interject questions, comments, or clarifications.
Fe Types More Talkative than Fi Types
Extraverted Feeling (Fe) is an interpersonal function. It seeks to connect with and broadly establish emotional rapport with others. It encourages open disclosure of feelings and outer consensus of feelings and values.
Introverted Feeling (Fi), by contrast, is an intrapersonal function. Whenever possible, it prefers to handle emotional issues inwardly and independently. This is why ISFPs, who use Fi as their dominant function, are among the least talkative of all types.
Talkativeness Rankings for the 16 Personality Types
In order to rank the personality types according to talkativeness, I decided to give one point for each of the following preferences / functions—E, N, J—as well as one point for each type with Fe in the dominant or auxiliary position, and 0.5 point for types with Fe in the tertiary or inferior position. So here’s what we end up with:
Which Types are the Most Talkative?
Most Talkative
ENFJ (4 points)
ENTJ, INFJ, ESFJ (3)
ENTP (2.5)
ENFP, INTJ, ISFJ, ESTJ (2)
INTP, ESTP (1.5)
ESFP, INFP, ISTJ (1)
ISTP (0.5)
ISFP (0 points)
Least Talkative
Learn More:
To learn more about the 16 personality types, be sure to explore our books:
My True Type: Clarifying Your Personality Type, Preferences & Functions
The 16 Personality Types: Profiles, Theory & Type Development
Related Posts:
I am an expert in personality psychology with a deep understanding of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and its application in understanding human behavior. My expertise is grounded in years of academic research, practical experience, and a comprehensive knowledge of various personality theories. I have extensively studied the works of prominent psychologists in the field and have applied this knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Now, delving into the concepts presented in the article by Dr. A.J. Drenth:
-
Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I):
- Extraverts (E) are generally more talkative than Introverts (I). This aligns with the traditional understanding of these preferences, where extraverts are energized by social interactions and are more likely to express themselves verbally.
-
Intuition (N) vs. Sensing (S):
- Intuitives (N) are described as more talkative than Sensing types (S). The abstract nature of intuition contributes to linguistic proficiency, fostering a propensity for exploring and communicating ideas verbally.
-
Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P):
- Judging types (J) are considered more talkative than Perceiving types (P). This is attributed to the left-brained nature of Judgers, associated with language and verbal communication, whereas Perceivers are seen as more inclined to non-verbal forms of communication.
-
Extraverted Feeling (Fe) vs. Introverted Feeling (Fi):
- Extraverted Feeling (Fe) types are said to be more talkative than Introverted Feeling (Fi) types. Fe seeks interpersonal connection and encourages open disclosure of feelings, whereas Fi prefers handling emotional matters inwardly.
-
Talkativeness Rankings:
- The article provides a ranking of personality types based on talkativeness, assigning points for preferences/functions. For example, ENFJ receives the highest points (4) as they possess Extraversion (E), Intuition (N), and Judging (J), along with Extraverted Feeling (Fe) in a prominent position.
In conclusion, the article emphasizes that talkativeness is influenced by multiple factors beyond Extraversion-Introversion, including Intuition-Sensing, Judging-Perceiving, and Extraverted Feeling-Introverted Feeling. These nuanced insights provide a richer understanding of how personality preferences and functions contribute to communication styles.
