Analyzing the Role of Enneagram Types in Criminal Behavior

For centuries the complex factors underlying unlawful acts have captivated the curiosity of those who study criminal psychology, human behavior and the enforcement of societal order. The Enneagram personality typing system is gaining popularity as a tool for understanding human behavior, including criminal behavior. An analysis of the various Enneagram personality types and their propensities for unlawful behavior can yield insights into the psychological mechanisms underlying the perpetration of criminal acts.

Enneagram Type 1: The Perfectionist

Those possessing a Perfectionist personality type are characterized by their tendency to assiduously pursue flawlessness in any and all endeavors upon which they embark. When their high standards are not met, they can become critical and angry. Driven by an unquenchable thirst to attain their envisioned level of perfection, these individuals, in a desperate bid to grasp even a modicum of control or success, may resort to criminal acts as a means to that obsessive end.

Enneagram Type 2: The Helper

The nurturing spirits that are innate in those inclined toward helping others evince a benevolent propensity to offer comfort and solace. Though the impulse to accommodate others may initially seem benign, taken to an extreme it can metastasize into a tangled web of codependency and manipulation. To satisfy their psychological cravings or gain validation from peers, those inclined towards unlawful acts may engage in criminal behavior.

Enneagram Type 3: The Achiever

Although exhibiting an intense and unwavering determination to thrive in every facet of their existence, high achievers remain perpetually motivated and compelled to prevail. However, when their desire for success becomes obsessive, it can lead to a disregard for ethical behavior and boundaries. Achievers, driven by an insatiable hunger for success and power, may resort to illegal means in pursuit of their goals, engaging in criminal behavior merely as a vehicle to reach their desired destination.

Enneagram Type 4: The Individualist

Those possessing an individualistic mindset frequently exhibit both an acute awareness of their own distinct identity as well as an aspiration to differentiate themselves conspicuously from those surrounding them. While an overabundance of individuality may galvanize their craving for distinction to an extreme degree, this predilection can ultimately engender sentiments of seclusion and estrangement from their fellow beings. Displaying individualistic tendencies within criminal behaviors, those with such proclivities may participate in unlawful acts as an attention-seeking mechanism or as a nonconformist rejection of established cultural standards.

Enneagram Type 5: The Investigator

Propelled by an insatiable curiosity, investigators eagerly delve into the enigmas of existence that surround them, accumulating wisdom through their indefatigable pursuit of understanding. Though an inquisitive mind is admirable, in excess such relentless intellectual yearning can foster a solitary life bereft of human connection and estranged from what truly matters. In the context of criminal behavior, Investigators may engage in illegal activity as a means of testing their knowledge or to gain access to restricted information.

Enneagram Type 6: The Loyalist

Loyalists prioritize security and loyalty above all else. Although excessive fear can compel some individuals into blind subservience to authority figures, even when such obedience compromises their ethical principles. To placate those exploiting their fealty or secure their own precarious position, Loyalists may pursue unlawful acts within the realm of criminal misconduct.

Enneagram Type 7: The Enthusiast

Those consumed by a passion for life itself are recognized for an irrepressible vigor and an insatiable hunger to venture into uncharted territory. Even as their insatiable craving for excitement dangerously escalates into a compulsion beyond control, it can prompt an irresponsible indifference towards peril. Motivated by a thirst for new thrills, some adventure-seekers will resort to unlawful exploits in their restless quest for exhilaration within the sphere of criminal conduct.

Enneagram Type 8: The Challenger

Those possessing an innate drive to overcome adversity and emerge victorious are characterized by their indomitable spirit and unquenchable thirst for supremacy. When taken to an extreme degree, their craving for authority can manifest itself through hostility and a propensity to subjugate those around them. To demonstrate their dominance over adversaries or exact retribution, individuals classified as 'Challengers' in the realm of unlawful conduct may undertake illicit acts.

Enneagram Type 9: The Peacemaker

Peacemakers prioritize harmony and peace above all else. Though at their zenith an ardent aspiration for concord may portend a proclivity to eschew contention and lapse into lassitude. Forms of avoiding confrontation or indirectly expressing anger, criminal peacemakers may sometimes partake in unlawful deeds.

To understand the complex criminal mind and what drives its sinister machinations, the Enneagram personality system can serve as an illuminating typological tool. By examining how different Enneagram personalities contribute to criminal activity, we can gain valuable insights into the psychology of criminals. Additionally, by understanding our own Enneagram type, we can gain self-awareness that can help us avoid engaging in illegal behavior.

Discover the hidden aspects of your own personality and gain a deeper understanding of how Enneagram types may influence behavior, by taking the Enneagram test and exploring the connections to criminal behavior discussed in this blog.

Discover your personality type and gain self-awareness by taking the Enneagram test today!