Personality tests have several purposes and benefits. Sarah Levine-Miles, a psychotherapist and licensed clinical social worker based in Rockville, Maryland, says personality assessments can help someone learn more about their unique personality traits and how they impact their individual strengths, challenges and relationships. Dr. Stanger adds to this, saying that a personality test can be a pivotal moment in one’s journey towards self-discovery and personal growth.
“These assessments can be especially beneficial for individuals grappling with addiction, recovery or mental health concerns,” adds Dr. Stanger. “They offer a means to unearth underlying issues, motivations and behavioral patterns that may be contributing to their challenges.”
Additionally, personality tests are also a helpful tool for psychotherapists, serving as a way to understand their clients’ personality more, according to Dr. Stanger. A personality test can be used to tailor therapy or intervention plans for an individual, she explains. Levine-Miles echoes this, saying, “A therapist can use a client’s results of personality tests to help them utilize strengths and work on challenges.”
Both experts agree that personality tests can also help people understand each other more, which can be beneficial in romantic relationships, family dynamics, friendships and in the workplace.
“Personality tests can help loved ones understand a person’s behavioral patterns, needs, preferences and communication styles,” explains Levine-Miles. “By understanding more about their friend, family member or partner, someone can have greater insight into how to communicate effectively.” What’s more, Levine-Miles suggests that having conversations about the outcomes of personality tests may foster more “openness, honesty, vulnerability and trust.”
