Understanding Enneagram types in relationships

It’s hard to quantify how anyone approaches a relationship, but the enneagram is a good place to start when trying to identify tendencies. This article takes a three tiered approach going from a superficial overview to decent depth on each of the types.

Overview of Enneagram types in a relationship

1. The Reformer - Perfectionist, responsible, and rational
2. The Helper - Generous, caring, and people-pleasing
3. The Achiever - Ambitious, adaptable, and driven
4. The Individualist - Sensitive, creative, and moody
5. The Investigator - Analytical, independent, and perceptive
6. The Loyalist - Loyal, anxious, and security-seeking
7. The Enthusiast - Optimistic, spontaneous, and scattered
8. The Challenger - Powerful, assertive, and confrontational
9. The Peacemaker - Easygoing, agreeable, and conflict-avoidant

Mid-tier with a little more depth

Enneagram Type 1 Relationship Overview

Type 1 reformers are often perfectionists and can be critical of themselves and others. In relationships, they may have high expectations and struggle to accept their partner’s flaws. They may also struggle with expressing their emotions and may come across as distant or cold.

Enneagram Type 2 Relationship Overview

Type 2 helpers are often focused on the needs of others and may struggle with setting boundaries. In relationships, they may be prone to putting their partner’s needs before their own, leading to feelings of resentment or burnout.

Enneagram Type 3 Relationship Overview

Type 3 achievers are often focused on success and may prioritize work or career over relationships. In relationships, they may struggle with vulnerability and may avoid emotional intimacy.

Enneagram Type 4 Relationship Overview

Type 4 individualists are often sensitive and may struggle with feeling misunderstood. In relationships, they may be prone to dramatic emotional outbursts and may struggle with trusting their partner.

Enneagram Type 5 Relationship Overview

Type 5 investigators are often analytical and may struggle with emotional intimacy. In relationships, they may come across as distant or aloof and may struggle with expressing their emotions.

Enneagram Type 6 Relationship Overview

Type 6 loyalists are often anxious and may struggle with trust. In relationships, they may seek constant reassurance and may be prone to jealousy or possessiveness.

Enneagram Type 7 Relationship Overview

Type 7 enthusiasts are often spontaneous and may struggle with commitment. In relationships, they may struggle with emotional intimacy and may prioritize excitement over stability.

Enneagram Type 8 Relationship Overview

Type 8 challengers are often powerful and may struggle with vulnerability. In relationships, they may come across as domineering or controlling and may struggle with empathy.

Enneagram Type 9 Relationship Overview

Type 9 peacemakers are often conflict-avoidant and may struggle with asserting their needs. In relationships, they may struggle with setting boundaries and may prioritize harmony over authenticity.

Enneagram relationships on a deeper level

Enneagram Type 1 in Relationships

Enneagram type 1 individuals are often known as “The Perfectionist” or “The Reformer.” In a relationship, they bring a strong sense of responsibility and integrity, and they strive to do things in the “right” way. They are typically driven by a sense of purpose and have high standards for themselves and others.

In a romantic relationship, type 1s may struggle with accepting their partner’s flaws and may be overly critical or judgmental. They may have a tendency to nitpick at their partner’s behavior, especially if they feel it falls short of their standards. However, they also have a strong desire to improve themselves and their relationships, so they may be open to feedback and willing to work on issues that arise.

Type 1s value honesty, communication, and respect in relationships. They appreciate partners who are dependable, responsible, and who share their desire for growth and self-improvement. They may struggle with vulnerability and expressing their emotions, but they have a deep sense of loyalty and dedication to their loved ones.

It’s important for partners of type 1s to understand and appreciate their strong sense of morality and desire for order and structure. They may also need reassurance that they are appreciated for who they are, even if they don’t always meet their own high standards. With patience and understanding, type 1s can form strong, committed, and fulfilling relationships. More on type 1

Enneagram Type 2 in Relationships

Enneagram Type 2, also known as “The Helper,” is warm, caring, and attentive to the needs of others. They are motivated by the desire to be loved and appreciated, and they often seek validation through their relationships. In a romantic relationship, they are incredibly loving and affectionate partners who go above and beyond to make their significant other feel loved and appreciated.

However, their desire to please others can sometimes lead to neglecting their own needs and wants. They may struggle with setting healthy boundaries or expressing their true feelings out of fear of upsetting their partner. This can lead to resentment building up over time, causing conflicts and tension in the relationship.

Type 2s may also struggle with jealousy and possessiveness, particularly if they feel their partner is not reciprocating their love and affection. They may become overly involved in their partner’s life, making decisions for them or trying to solve their problems without being asked. This can lead to their partner feeling smothered or controlled, causing strain in the relationship.

It’s essential for Type 2s to learn to balance their desire to help others with taking care of their own emotional needs. Communicating openly and honestly with their partner and setting clear boundaries can help prevent resentment from building up over time. It’s also important for them to recognize that their partner is their own person and to respect their autonomy, rather than trying to control or fix everything. More on type 2

Enneagram Type 3 in Relationships

Enneagram type 3 individuals, also known as “The Achievers,” are focused on success, achievement, and recognition. They are highly ambitious and driven, always looking for new opportunities to prove their worth and achieve their goals. In a relationship, they are often very attentive and focused on their partner, but they may struggle with balancing their desire for success with their commitment to the relationship.

Type 3 individuals are often very charming and sociable, making them skilled at creating and maintaining relationships. They enjoy being seen as successful and competent, and they often use their relationships as a way to build their reputation and status. However, they may struggle with truly connecting emotionally with their partners, as they are often more focused on achieving their goals than on deepening their relationships.

In a romantic relationship, a type 3 individual may prioritize their own success and achievement over the needs of their partner. They may struggle with expressing vulnerability or admitting when they are wrong, as they fear it could damage their image of being successful and competent. Type 3s also have a tendency to avoid conflict and may struggle with addressing issues in the relationship head-on.

To have a successful relationship, type 3 individuals need to learn how to balance their drive for success with their commitment to their partner. They need to prioritize emotional connection and vulnerability over success and recognition, and they need to learn how to communicate effectively and address conflicts in the relationship. Additionally, they need to recognize the value of their partner’s needs and goals and work to support and encourage them as well. More on type 3

Enneagram Type 4 in Relationships

Enneagram Type 4 individuals are known for their strong emotions and introspective nature. In relationships, they seek deep connection and often crave a sense of being understood and appreciated for their unique qualities. However, they may also struggle with feelings of inadequacy and fear of rejection.

When in a romantic relationship, Type 4s tend to be very emotionally expressive and desire a partner who can empathize with and appreciate their depth of feeling. They often have a strong sense of aesthetics and may express their creativity through their style or personal space. They may also be drawn to partners who have a certain mystique or artistic flair.

One potential challenge for Type 4s in relationships is their tendency towards emotional intensity and mood swings. They may become overwhelmed by their own emotions or those of their partner, leading to conflict or difficulty managing their feelings. Additionally, they may struggle with feelings of jealousy or envy towards their partner, particularly if they perceive their partner as having qualities or experiences they themselves lack.

In order to have a successful relationship, Type 4s may need to work on managing their emotions and communicating their needs and feelings clearly to their partner. They may also benefit from developing a sense of self-acceptance and self-love, as they can be very self-critical and hard on themselves. Finally, cultivating a sense of gratitude for what they have and practicing mindfulness can help Type 4s stay grounded and present in their relationships. More on type 4

Enneagram Type 5 in Relationships

Enneagram type 5, also known as the Investigator or Observer, tends to be analytical, cerebral, and introspective. They are driven by a desire to understand the world around them and gather information, often at the expense of social interaction and emotional expression.

In a relationship, type 5s may struggle with expressing their emotions and communicating their needs to their partner. They may need a lot of alone time and space to recharge and pursue their intellectual interests, which can be challenging for their partner to understand and accept.

Type 5s can also be prone to overthinking and analysis paralysis, which can lead to indecisiveness and inaction. This can cause frustration for their partner, who may feel like they are not taking an active role in the relationship or making decisions.

However, when type 5s do feel comfortable and secure in a relationship, they can be incredibly loyal and committed partners. They are often excellent listeners and can offer valuable insights and perspectives to their partner. They also tend to be open-minded and non-judgmental, which can create a safe and accepting space for their partner to share their thoughts and feelings.

Overall, relationships with type 5s can be rewarding and intellectually stimulating, but may require patience, understanding, and a willingness to give them the space they need to recharge and pursue their interests. More on type 5

Enneagram Type 6 in Relationships

Enneagram Type Sixes, also known as the Loyalists, are known for their sense of duty and loyalty towards others. They are excellent at predicting potential problems and preparing for them. In a relationship, Type Sixes tend to be very caring and supportive towards their partner. However, they may struggle with trust issues and may need reassurance from their partner that they are loved and accepted. They often seek a partner who is stable and reliable, and they may have a hard time feeling secure if their partner is unpredictable or inconsistent.

Type Sixes are often very attuned to the needs of others and can be excellent at anticipating their partner’s needs. They are committed to their relationships and will work hard to maintain them, often placing their partner’s needs ahead of their own. However, they can become anxious and insecure in their relationships, which may lead to them seeking reassurance from their partner. They may also struggle with decision-making in their relationships, as they tend to weigh all options carefully before making a choice.

In romantic relationships, Type Sixes often seek a sense of security and stability. They may be drawn to partners who are dependable, loyal, and trustworthy. They are also attracted to partners who are supportive and nurturing, as they appreciate being cared for and protected. Type Sixes may struggle with jealousy and possessiveness in their relationships, as they fear losing their partner to someone else. They may also be hesitant to take risks in their relationships, as they prefer to avoid potential conflict or disappointment.

Type Sixes can be very supportive partners, offering stability and security to their loved ones. However, they may also struggle with anxiety and fear, which can impact their relationships. They benefit from partners who are patient, understanding, and reassuring, helping them to feel more secure in their relationships. With the right partner, Type Sixes can build lasting and meaningful relationships based on trust and mutual support. More on type 6

Enneagram Type 7 in Relationships

Enneagram type sevens, also known as the Enthusiast, are adventurous, fun-loving, and spontaneous individuals who enjoy experiencing new things and are always on the lookout for new adventures. In a relationship, sevens can bring a sense of excitement, joy, and spontaneity to their partners’ lives.

One of the most significant strengths of Enneagram sevens in a relationship is their ability to keep things exciting and fresh. Sevens thrive on novelty and enjoy exploring new places, trying new foods, and experiencing new activities. They are always open to trying new things and often encourage their partners to do the same.

However, Enneagram sevens’ love of novelty can sometimes lead to a lack of commitment in relationships. They may struggle with staying focused on one partner or one activity for an extended period, as they constantly seek out new experiences.

Additionally, sevens can struggle with being present in the moment and may sometimes avoid dealing with difficult emotions or situations. This can lead to a lack of emotional depth in relationships, as sevens may find it challenging to address and work through their partner’s emotions or conflicts.

Despite these potential challenges, Enneagram sevens are typically warm, enthusiastic, and engaging partners who bring joy and excitement to their relationships. They are optimistic, playful, and spontaneous, and they love to make their partners feel loved and appreciated. Sevens are also skilled at diffusing tension and making light of difficult situations, which can be a valuable asset in any relationship. More on type 7

Enneagram Type 8 in Relationships

Enneagram type 8, also known as the Challenger or Leader, is characterized by their assertiveness, self-confidence, and protective nature. They have a strong desire for control and can be seen as intimidating to others, but their true motivation is to protect those they care about and ensure justice and fairness in their relationships. In a relationship, type 8s value honesty, loyalty, and strength.

Type 8s tend to take charge in a relationship and may come across as dominant. They want their partner to be direct and honest with them and may have little patience for indecisiveness or lack of confidence. They are fiercely loyal to their loved ones and will defend them at all costs. They also have a strong need for physical touch and intimacy in their relationships, and may have difficulty expressing vulnerability or emotions.

In order for a relationship with a type 8 to thrive, their partner must be willing to meet their need for honesty, loyalty, and respect. Type 8s also appreciate a partner who is willing to stand up for themselves and speak their mind, rather than being passive or submissive. It is important for type 8s to recognize the impact their strong personality can have on their partner and to strive for balance and compromise in their relationship.

Type 8s may struggle with vulnerability and may need to work on expressing their emotions and allowing themselves to be vulnerable with their partner. They may also need to work on recognizing and respecting their partner’s emotions and perspective, rather than dismissing them in favor of their own. With effort and communication, a relationship with a type 8 can be deeply fulfilling and loving. More on type 8

Enneagram Type 9 in Relationships

Enneagram Type 9, also known as the “Peacemaker,” is a gentle and easygoing personality type that values harmony and peaceful interactions. Nines are known for their empathetic and compassionate nature and their ability to see things from multiple perspectives.

In a relationship, Nines tend to prioritize the needs and feelings of their partner over their own. They are highly empathetic and sensitive to the emotions of others, often putting themselves in their partner’s shoes to better understand their perspective. This makes them excellent at compromising and finding common ground, as they are always looking for ways to create harmony in the relationship.

Nines are also known for their ability to remain calm and composed even in the midst of conflict. They avoid confrontation and tend to retreat or withdraw from situations that feel too emotionally charged. While this can be a positive trait in some situations, it can also lead to problems in a relationship if the Nine avoids discussing important issues or expressing their true feelings.

One potential challenge for Nines in relationships is their tendency to prioritize harmony over their own needs. This can lead to a lack of assertiveness and difficulty setting boundaries, which can be problematic if their partner takes advantage of their accommodating nature. Nines may also struggle with making decisions, as they often see multiple sides to every situation and may be hesitant to take a definitive stance. More on type 9

Enneagram Relationship Conclusion

There are near infinite possibilities for how a person can think, feel and behave in a relationship therefore this is all to be taken with a grain of salt. It is however helpful to be aware of common tendencies that the types display and that you might be prone to. The hope is that you use this information to bring your best self forward in all your relationships. ❤️