Both Type Five and Type Six look for safety, but they go about it differently. Sixes generally prefer to build support networks and form alliances with others, while Fives are extremely self-reliant. Fives minimize their needs and take refuge in their inner world. So, while both types need security, they use entirely different strategies to get it.
People with the 6w5 personality type use both strategies because they are, in many ways, a blend of the two types.
The Enneagram personality test can be found here.
Keep in mind that every Six has both a Five-Wing and a Seven-Wing, but these wings can be developed to different degrees. When we talk about 6w5s, we mean Sixes with a stronger Five-Wing.
The 6w5 is more independent than the 6w7. The 6w7 is more people-oriented, while 6w5s are less likely to rely on others to meet their needs. They do not need as much reassurance and will usually deal with their typical Type Six anxiety alone.
Overall, 6w5s seem more detached and pessimistic than Sixes with a Seven-Wing. In the 6w5, the Six’s tendency to perceive others as a potential threat is reinforced by the Five’s tendency to withdraw from others out of fear of being depleted.
People with the 6w5 personality type are unquestionably introverts. They may have one or two close friends, but in general, they prefer to keep to themselves. It takes time to earn their trust, and their relationships usually develop slowly.
When dealing with 6w5s, boundaries are essential. Both Sixes and Fives want some control over their environment. Sixes want predictability and safety, while Fives want privacy and control over their time and energy.
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As a result, 6w5s do not want you to show up unannounced. They will not appreciate your spontaneity either. If anything, it will make them uncomfortable and may make them want to avoid you in the future.
Compared with 6w7s, 6w5s are less concerned about other people’s opinions of them and more willing to express their ideas freely.
Because of their strong Five-Wing, 6w5s often come across as knowledgeable and sophisticated. It is not uncommon for them to get involved in politics or otherwise fight for what they believe is right.
6w5s value emotional control. Because they are still Sixes, they may be riddled with anxiety — and often are. Still, they are good at hiding their fears and discomfort, preferring to deal with their issues alone.
The stronger their Five-Wing, the better they are at controlling their emotions.
When a 6w5 is anxious about something, they may use intellectualization as their defense mechanism.
Intellectualization is an attempt to leave emotions behind and focus on a rational analysis of the upsetting event. It may involve a lot of reading and studying, and perhaps even some written analysis.
If their Five-Wing is particularly strong, 6w5s may also reduce their needs and hoard their financial resources. This strategy reassures them that they will always have enough of whatever they need to deal with their problems, should the need arise.
To understand this personality type better, it is a good idea to read the original Type Five and Type Six profiles.
The 5w6 profile can be found here.
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