Do Personality Tests Have Any Impact on Mental Health? Let's Explore

This article is authored byDr Maitri Thakker, Clinical Psychologist.

Personality Tests: Impact On Social Media

Scroll down any social media platform, and you will come across quite a few quizzes promising to give you a deeper idea of the person you are. From fun questions on Facebook and Instagram to structured tools used in therapy, you will find that personality tests are all around you.

So, whether you are exploring the Enneagram test to know more about the nine personality types, or wondering if you are one of the rare INFJ types, also known as the Advocate, and characterised by introversion, intuition, feeling, and judging, you can’t help but give in to the curiosity about your personality type. Not to forget, seeing yourself described in some familiar terms gives a sense of validation or affirmation of your beliefs.

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At the same time, the question also arises whether these tests can impact your mental health. Interestingly, the answer is yes — and the effect can be both positive and negative.

When used in the right context, particularly in therapeutic or guided settings, the assessment of your personality can be beneficial. The Big Five and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator tests give a clearer picture of how we think, feel, and behave. While the Big Five broadly categorizes personality types based on Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator is a self-report questionnaire that categorizes respondents into 16 distinct personality types.

For many people, these tests provide the language for things they have always sensed, but couldn’t articulate, for reasons they can’t spell out.

The Flip Side

It is equally important to note that the impact cannot always be positive, especially when the tests are taken out of context. Rigid self-labelling is a common pitfall. Case in point, when someone who identifies as an “introvert” avoids social situations he/she would enjoy, only because it feels “off-brand”. Even though they prefer keeping their own company or, at most, restricting themselves to smaller groups, introverts are not inherently antisocial.

This kind of avoidance of social situations arises from a desire to maintain a perceived introverted identity, rather than a genuine lack of enjoyment or social skills. Consequently, this hinders personal growth and reinforces a fixed identity with very little room for change.

Personality test results can worsen symptoms, especially for those struggling with low self-esteem, anxiety, or identity confusion. Certain traits may be misunderstood as flaws and consequently, trigger doubt or emotional distress. If someone feels a test is inaccurate or judgmental, it can lead to confusion, frustration, or even internalised shame.

It is also necessary to remember that one’s personality develops and changes from time to time, depending on circumstances, experiences, and time itself. Clinging obstinately to a result can make you feel caged, and consequently, unable to explore other aspects of yourself.

The Last Word?

Personality tests can be insightful, and even empowering, but only when approached with care. They are certainly not diagnostic tools in any way. They only offer a snapshot, not the full picture. Hence, the results should not be taken or treated as the absolute truths.

In the end, it is good if you are using them to get a better understanding of yourself and lead your life accordingly. However, at the same time, it is important to note that meaningful growth doesn’t come from a quiz alone. True healing lies in reflection, exploration, and when needed, professional guidance as well.

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