I'm Not Crazy, I'm Just Not You: The Real Meaning of the Sixteen Personality Types

by Roger R. Pearman, Sarah Albritton, Sarah C. Albritton

Book Overview

No one is right or wrong - just different! Tracing the growth of the study of personality type from its roots in the work of Carl Jung to today's subtly nuanced type theory, I'm Not Crazy, I'm Just... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0891060960
• ISBN13: 9780891060963
• Release Date: March 1997
• Publisher: Nicholas Brealey Publishing
• Length: 208 Pages
• Weight: 0.75 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 6.1" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

In-depth Analysis

If you want to understand type just a little bit more in depth then this book is for you. I use it as a reference and, as such, I wish there was an index and easier to read. But still a great reference tool.

Paradoxically fluffy and profound

I think this, aside from Keirsey's, "Please Understand Me II," is probably the most useful book I've found in understanding the overarching theory and subtheories of Jungian-Briggsian personality theory. This slim volume manages to convey a number of different sub-theories of how preferences interact, from the conflicts between the Perceiving and Judging functions, to temperament. Sometimes these models can seem to conflict with each other, however, this seems to flesh out the theory more than a simple one-perspective guide ever could.It does all of this in an oddly sketchy, yet very iNtuitive way: for each type, the profile is just a series of phrases that describe the dominant and auxiliary functions. And yet, these same sparse phrases manage to trigger lines of thought and association, that can lead to a larger understanding of just what each preference means, and how to understand their interaction in each of the sixteen types. I think, in fact, it is this exact lack of detail, that assists one in understanding personality typing in a more profound way, one that almost defies expression in words.There is some wonderful advice (quick, and to the point) on dealing with inferior function eruptions for each type, as well as symptoms of these grip experiences (if you're interested in this aspect, supplement with Naomi Quenk's wonderful book, "Was That Really Me?" for a more in-depth look at inferior functions), so that you can diagnose yourself quickly, and find ways to correct your imbalance. There are also some wonderful suggestions on how to communicate with other types, and show them the sort of respect they most appreciate receiving. And the authors find some wonderful real-life examples in illustrating the preferences, and how they express themselves in people (I'm particularly fond of the illustration of Sensing and iNtuition). What is unfortunate about this book is that the tone can become a bit heavy-handed, and a little too intellectually fluffy at the same time. Admonitions litter the 200 or so pages quite frequently, warning people that "personality type can be used to gain power unethically, so don't do it!" I think, in some ways, this diminishes some of the power of this book in assisting you to understand Jung's theory.However, I think this book serves as a wonderful iNtuitive guide to understanding the whole of personality typing, in ways that most other books can't. Sometimes paradox and conflicting information can help you to understand theory far better than the a completely coherent presentation can. I don't recommend this book for Sensing types looking to learn more, but for an iNtuitive, especially an NTP or NFP, this is probably one of the best out there!~~INTP author~~

Great Addition to Jung and Myers-Briggs

I find this book to be intellectually rewarding. I have studied Character Typing alot and in college it is my major. This book helps you really understand the many facets of type and how they interact. Thanks

This book explains everything

Instead of just telling you that the MBTI exists and providing unsubstantiated examples, this book explains the theories behind type classification, giving you the background necessary to make justifications about the role it should play in your life. Rather than encouraging the use of type theory to put people in categories, "I'm Not Crazy..." provides the opporunity for you to broaden your understanding of the motivations behind the thoughts and actions of those that are close to you.

A great book for understanding business relationships

I've known my MBTI for many years, so what? It wasn't until I read this book that I understood all the implications. The book goes beyond just explaining your personality type, but actually provides useful information regarding how to deal with each. Information is displayed in great succinct charts covering such aspects as: expression of attitudes, motivators, inner tensions, development recommendations, how the type gathers/absorbs information, valued relationship qualities, as well as hot buttons, prejudices, and other issues. I purchased two copies, one to keep and one to distribute among my team.