The Personality Type Debate: Donald Trump as an ESTP or ESFJ-T

When discussing personalities, the debate over whether Donald Trump is best described as an ESTP or an ESFJ-T has been a subject of much interest and analysis. This article delves into the characteristics and functions of each type, providing a comprehensive comparison to help you decide which personality type aligns more closely with the legendary real estate tycoon and former U.S. President.

Understanding ESTP and ESFJ-T

ESTP (Extroverted, Sensing, Thinking, Perceiving) and ESFJ-T (Extroverted, Sensing, Feeling, Judging, tertiary Fi) are two distinct personality types within the Myers-Briggs type indicator (MBTI). Both types share some similarities, such as being extroverted and sensing, but their decision-making processes and traits differ significantly.

ESTP Characteristics

Follows his gut: An ESTP relies on their intuition and emotions to make decisions. Following their gut is more characteristic of a Feeler (Fe) than a Thinker (T) trait, which might explain why Trump is often seen as impulsive and intuitive in his decision-making.

Responds spontaneously: Sensing (S) traits are more closely aligned with this trait, as Sensing types tend to react to immediate situations with adroitness.

Improviser: An improviser is a strong trait for an ESTP. They thrive in dynamic environments, often improvising solutions on the fly.

Talented persuader: This reflects the primary function of an ESFJ (Fe), where persuasion is a well-practiced skill. However, it takes precedence over the tertiary function (Fi) in ESTPs, which is more reflective and less dominant.

Negotiator: Again, this is a trait of Fe, where persuasion is key, rather than a strategic approach grounded in Ti.

Cannot stand boredom: This is a common trait among many personality types, including INTJ, ENFP, and ENTJ, so it is not unique to ESTP or ESFJ-T.

Adrenaline: This can be a key driver for an SP type, but it needs to be supported by evidence to affirm the presence of this trait.

Tactical intelligence: ESTPs often have a tactical intelligence, focused on current situations and practical solutions rather than a long-term strategic plan.

Drawn to the finer things in life: This is more characteristic of an SJ (Judging) type, which is why the ESFJ-T might align more closely with this trait.

Outgoing: Both ESTP and ESFJ-T are extroverted, so this is a shared trait.

Acting instead of thinking: This is more characteristic of Feelers (Fe), who believe in doing something rather than overthinking it.

ESFJ-T Characteristics

Follows his gut: This is not as true for an ESFJ-T as it is for an ESTP, as they tend to be more thoughtful in their decisions.

Responds spontaneously: This is more aligned with an SP type, particularly an ESTP, rather than an ESFJ-T.

Improviser: Improvisation is more characteristic of an ESTP, as they are more prone to spontaneity and reacting to immediate situations.

Talented persuader: While persuasion is a strong function for an ESFJ-T, it is often more strategic and less spontaneous compared to the ESTP's improvisational approach.

Negotiator: ESFJ-Ts are known for their strategic negotiation skills, which are more suited to their Fi function rather than Fe.

Cannot stand boredom: This is true for many types, so it is not a distinguishing trait for either type.

Adrenaline: This trait is not a clear indicator for ESFJ-Ts, as they are more focused on long-term strategic planning.

Tactical intelligence: Tactical intelligence is more characteristic of an ESTP, who are more focused on practical, current solutions rather than long-term strategies.

Drawn to the finer things in life: This aligns more with an SJ type, such as an ESFJ-T, who value comfort and tradition.

Outgoing: Both types are extroverted, so this is a shared trait.

Acting instead of thinking: This is more characteristic of ESFJ-Ts, who prefer to take action based on their Fe feelings rather than overthinking.

The Dominant Function in Donald Trump

Given the traits outlined, Donald Trump aligns more closely with the characteristics of an ESTP. As an ESTP, he follows his gut, responds spontaneously, is an improviser, a talented persuader and negotiator, cannot stand boredom, needs adrenaline, has more of a tactical intelligence, is drawn to the finer things in life, is outgoing, and would rather act than think about acting. These traits are more representative of the core functions of an ESTP than those of an ESFJ-T.

Conclusion

The debate over whether Donald Trump is an ESTP or an ESFJ-T is intriguing, and the evidence suggests that he is likely an ESTP. Understanding personality types can provide valuable insights into leadership styles, decision-making processes, and interpersonal dynamics. Whether you lean towards the ESTP or ESFJ-T theory, it's clear that Trump's unique approach to life and leadership has been a defining feature of his career and presidency.

Related Articles

Understanding Donald Trump's Multiple Personality Types ESTP vs. ESFJ: Navigating the Differences in Personality Types Tactical vs. Strategic Planning: Insights from ESTP and ESFJ Leaders

Endnotes

1. Utter, John (2X). Personal Communication. Report detailing responses to ESFJ and ESTP indicators.