Enneagram Type 5: The Investigator
Got an Enneagram Type 5 result but don’t really know what it means? Then continue reading this post as we reveal your true personality!
A form of personality test, the Enneagram is used to analyze how a person sees the world and manages his emotions.
It’s divided into nine personality types and mapped out on a nine-pointed diagram to see how they relate to one another. Enneagram is from the two Greek words Ennea (nine) and Gramma (something written or drawn.)
Since each personality has its own way of viewing the world, through the Enneagram, you can now understand why a person acts a certain way. It can offer opportunities for personal growth, too, as it can predict how a personality may react in some situations.
Enneagram Type 5: Defining traits
The fifth type on the Enneagram is best described by the nickname ‘The Investigator’. Below is a list of its common characteristics:
- Independent and detached
- Is always lost in their thoughts or absentminded
- Can be very difficult to get to know
- Is extremely knowledgeable on subjects that interest them
- Gives out insightful responses
- Thinks twice before speaking
- Has set boundaries between work, friends, and family
What are they Like?
They’re very curious about the world and how one thing relates to another. They’re introverted and analytical, too, gathering information to make new patterns and ideas. Investigators inspire others to become critical thinkers.
Their resources are often limited except for subjects they’re truly interested in—they have a huge collection for those. Investigators are also non-conformists and couldn’t care less about current trends.
Their core values
Since Investigators are often introverted, they have high standards for autonomy and freedom. Social customs have little meaning to them and they are more curious about the unknown.
Investigators also value understanding, freedom, and independence. When things go wrong, they’re the ones who stay calm to analyze and figure out what should be done next.
How to recognize an enneagram type 5?
They’re curious about the unknown and are energized by thinking when they’re left alone. They come across as unemotional, stoic and detached and this is the best way to recognize this type.
Investigators love learning and mastering new things. They seem quiet and calm on the outside, but when something that interests them is brought up, they suddenly turn giddy and excited.
This unexpected change in behaviour often surprises people who don’t know Investigators well.
Enneagram Type 5: What they’re like at different levels
Normal Level
Investigators are often seen as intellectuals—making them a crucial part of society. They handle complex issues with ease and are usually catalysts for change due to their endless curiosity.
The impossible now becomes possible with their plans and new ways of thinking.
They share their ideas freely in subjects they specialize in. They simplify what others see as complicated and can explain mind-boggling topics with confidence.
Moderate Level
Investigators are emotionally withdrawn people and may have some complex interests that they choose to keep secret. This is also the reason some seem aloof or distant.
They’re named the “bookworm” of their group since they’re well-informed on topics that interest them.
In their spare time, they’d rather spend time in the world they’ve made in their minds instead of doing mundane tasks. Furthermore, they’d rather read or play strategic card and board games for leisure.
Extreme Level
Investigators can start neglecting others’ views and only care for themselves. They may develop radical views, too, and lose touch with reality.
Being emotionally detached can get Investigators involved in pointless and useless arguments. This results in severed friendships along the way, which can certainly leave them confused.
They may think they’re better off alone and choose to escape the real world. Furthermore, they can become addicted to far-off theories only a few can understand and thus, feel intellectually superior.