Most people know what a Type A personality looks like. It’s an incredibly ambitious, organized, and driven person to succeed. You are probably also well-known for your Type B personality. Type B people are a little more laid-back, patient, and creative. But why did Alphabet stop there? What do you think of Type C personality? What is that? If so, what are they like? Well, here’s a quick snapshot. If you have someone in your life who tends to be introverted, overthinks, and has difficulty revealing their emotions, they’re probably Type C.
“Type C personalities are typically detail-oriented, logical, and very strict about following rules and regulations. They tend to suppress their emotions by emphasizing rationale and procedure over self-expression,” Sean O’Neill, a licensed marriage and family therapist and clinical director of Maple Moon Recovery, said in an interview with Scary Mommy.
If this sounds familiar, here’s what you need to know about this personality type, its common strengths and weaknesses, and how being a Type C can affect parenting.
What is a Type C personality?
Writing in Psychology Today, Dr. Susan Krauss Whitbourne defines Type C personalities as “honest” individuals who are concerned with accuracy and quality. So basically, anyone who wants to get it done right every time.
Of course, having a Type C personality is more than simply lacking Type A or Type B traits. In fact, Type C personalities seem to embody both traits. Similar to Type A, Type C personalities are hard-working, controlling, and often perfectionists. However, they are more submissive than the typical type of As. Similar to Type B personalities, Type C personalities tend to cooperate with those around them.
People with Type C personalities often:
- analytical
- Calm
- dislike conflict
- consistent
- controlled
- cooperative
- creative
- Detail-oriented
- concentrated
- introvert
- thoughtful
“Type C people work best in controlled environments that emphasize precision and careful planning, but may have problems with adaptability and emotional accessibility,” says O’Neill.
Because of these characteristics, Type Cs can struggle with change. They often become overwhelmed by the minutiae of life, such as the need to understand how everything flows, and find it difficult to take action or start something new. They also have a hard time communicating their emotions and may err on the side of pleasing others. They tend to waver when making decisions, preferring to agree with someone rather than take a potentially risky position on something.
Wondering if you have a Type C personality? Ask yourself:
- Do you take time to think things through when making a decision?
- Do you use a planned and systematic approach when solving problems?
- Are you used to analyzing large amounts of information?
- Do you like solitary activities?
- Do you have a hard time sharing your feelings?
- Are you always super serious at work?
- Do you consider yourself a perfectionist?
- Do you take a long time to make decisions?
- Do you often feel like criticizing someone when they’re doing something wrong?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, you may be a Type C.
What is parenting a Type C child like?
Although every family is unique, Type C parents certainly exhibit some traits common to their personality type.
“Type C personalities tend to be more controlling and perfectionistic as parents, so they expect that from their children,” says Reena B. Patel, parenting expert, guidance counselor, certified educational psychologist, and board-certified behavior analyst.
“Because of their consistency, they find it difficult to adapt to unwanted changes and prefer to stick to routines. They are very sensitive to the needs of others and usually respond calmly to situations, which makes them very good parents at supporting their children’s development. They are interested, focused, thoughtful, and intentional, which makes them true parents who give their children the time and attention they need.”
How can I embrace my personality type?
No matter your personality type, there are always ways to grow and take advantage of some of your unique traits. Some of the things that sound more negative (the question “Do you often feel like criticizing someone is very applicable…”) may be coming from a good place. Here are some great things about Type C people.
- You are a great peace builder. You don’t like to ruffle feathers and find it easy to get along with most groups of people.
- You like to get things right. Please remember. Being diligent is a great asset, but it’s important to understand that there are many different ways to deal with problems, and other people’s strategies can be just as good as yours.
- You are focused on what you are doing. Although you are detail-oriented, you never forget the broader end result and will do whatever it takes to get the job done right.
- Although you are independent and completely content to do things alone, remember that no one is an island. Ask those around you for support and advice.
Now, enter “C”. But if you find yourself falling into classic Type C traps and getting caught up in their consequences, consider seeing a therapist to help you break those patterns and become your best self.
