What is the SO/SP instinctual subtype? What are subtypes? As mentioned in a previous article, the enneagram is a lot deeper than it shows. We have subtypes that help you understand a person’s personality traits better.
These subtypes influence things we prioritize and those we do not. It gives you a better insight on what goes on in a person’s mind. If you’re the SO/SP trying to learn more about yourself, then this article is for you. But first, what does this all mean?
What Are The 3 Subtypes?
Instinctual stacking helps to understand the enneagrams better. Here are the 3 variants:
- Social (SO)
- Sexual (SX)
- Self Preservation (SP)
They are further divided into 6 categories which indicate the dominant and secondary type while leaving the third as the blind spot. Although the blind spot isn’t critical in decision making, it is not completely eradicated. These six variants are:
- SX/SP
- SO/SX
- SO/SP
- SP/SX
- SP/SP
- SX/SO
This article focuses on the SO/SP which means the SO is the dominant one while the SP acts as the secondary. Which makes the SX the blind spot.
Generally the SO/SP subtype will bring about a calmer and gentler person. People with this subtype are known as intellectual and lovable by a lot of people. They care about their friends and families and take care of the essentials while not losing sight of the fun.
Considering the sexual subtype is secondary, they aren’t quick to jump into intense relationships except with family, friends and partners. They are success driven and known as the model citizens. If you’ve ever wondered if this was you, let’s find it.
Top Signs You’re An SO/SP Instinctual Subtype
1. You Are Private
Due to the social part of you, you do not mind community settings from time to time but you are still private. You are considered more introverted and calm amongst your group.
People with this subtype stacking tend to be wary of new people regardless of being social. They are comfortable amongst their circle but others view them as shy, withdrawn and introverted.
2. You Care About Your Community
The SO/SP is very calculating. You don’t make friends just for the sake of it. You know your immediate communities strengths, weaknesses, interests and stressors. In other words, you know how to keep your group together.
People with this stacking look out for those around them because it reflects greatly on them too. They believe in community development and that way success gets to more people. Lack of sense of your community can be a stressor.
3. You Carry A Strong Sense of Moral Responsibility
There’s a reason why you are classified as a model citizen. You know the world doesn’t revolve around you and it takes two to tango. As mentioned above, this is another reason you take your group seriously.
Your friends can say you keep the group together in your own special way. This also makes you influential because you can come off as assertive. The SO/SP motivates people.
4. You Are Considered Formal
Especially towards people you don’t know, it can be said that you are quite formal. When you’re around unfamiliar faces, you joke less, smile less and are more intense. But when you’re around friends, you let your guard down.
Although your demeanor can be seen as quiet, you are loyal to your friends and a very reliable companion.
5. You Are Flexible
You know what to do, when to do it and how to do it. This comes to you easily because you manage different personalities often and if you want harmony, it is important to understand each.
Yet another reason why you are so loved.
What About The SX Subtype?
The SX subtype in this case would be the blind spot. It doesn’t heavily influence your personality and it isn’t essential for you. Most of your judgment comes from the social and self preservation subtypes.
What Is The Difference Between SO/SP and SP/SO?
The major difference between these two subtype stacking is their interchangeable dominant and secondary subtype. As well as SX being the blind spot in both. The SO/SP has SO as the dominant while the SP/SO has self preservation as the dominant.
Which do you think you are?
