The relationship between the Cognitive Process Profile (CPP) and the Myers-Briggs Type Inventory (MBTI)

Abstract

Personality, psychological type and cognitive ability are frequently implied to be underlying causes of differences in reasoning processes, decision-making processes and general success in a job. However, there is a trend towards utilising cognitive and personality measures interchangeably in the context of selection and development, particularly as it pertains to selection based on cognitive ability and cognitive style.

The general aim of this research was therefore to investigate the relationship between psychological type, as measured by the Myers-Briggs Type Inventory (MBTI), and cognitive abilities and styles as measured by the Cognitive Process Profile (CPP).

Cognitive ability is discussed under the cognitive psychology paradigm. A clarification of concepts associated with cognitive psychology is provided, and the CPP model is introduced as an integrative model encompassing aspects of cognitive ability and cognitive style.

Psychological type is discussed under the analytical psychology paradigm, with a focus on personality structure, dynamics and development. This is then integrated into an overview of Jung's theory of personality types and the development of the MBTI.

An empirical investigation, utilising Pairwise comparisons and Chi-square statistics was conducted. The results were then integrated to enable a better understanding of the relationship between cognition and personality. Based on this, it was concluded that there is insufficient evidence to suggest that a relationship exists between cognitive styles (as defined by the CPP) and personality (as defined by the MBTI). There were however, sufficient statistically significant findings to suggest that there is some relationship between cognitive processes / competencies and personality.