ISTJ and Communication type Type 1
Right or Wrong?

Introduction to Type 1 Communication Through a Polyvagal Lens

Type  1 correspond statistically to an ISTJ  under Jungian typology.
In the realm of communication, especially with an Enneagram Type 1 individual, understanding the interplay of their neurological responses is paramount. Type 1s, often guided by a stringent internal compass of right and wrong, can experience significant stress under the belief that they are "imperfect" or that "something must be wrong with them." This deep-seated fear of imperfection triggers a pronounced sympathetic response, propelling them into a state where they feel compelled to demonstrate their perfection and rectitude.

Under the scrutiny of a polyvagal perspective, this drive for perfection can be seen as an attempt to navigate out of a perceived "zone of unsafety," marked by a strong dorsal vagal activation. This activation is reflective of a withdrawal into a state of conservation and minimal external engagement, as if to protect oneself from further judgment or perceived threats to their self-worth. In their pursuit of perfection, Type 1s may often abstract from their own needs, leading to an internal struggle that is both obsessive and compulsive in nature.

The underlying "False Core" belief—that they are fundamentally flawed—serves as a relentless driver of their actions and thoughts, encapsulating the essence of their internal conflict. This belief, deeply ingrained and resistant to change, perpetuates a cycle of striving and frustration, as every effort to prove their worth only reinforces the initial premise of imperfection.

Communicating effectively with a Type 1, therefore, requires a nuanced approach that acknowledges these internal dynamics. It involves creating an environment that feels inherently safe, devoid of triggers that might elicit a heightened sympathetic response, such as implications of error or wrongdoing. The goal is to circumvent the activation of their dorsal vagal complex, which inclines them towards disconnection and self-preservation, and instead engage their capacity for social connection and openness.

In the subsequent sections, we delve deeper into the strategies and considerations essential for fostering meaningful communication with Type 1s, aiming to bridge the gap between their internal struggles and the possibility of authentic, empathetic connections.

Beyond your "rights"

Imagine you're someone who relies heavily on abstract concepts like justice and fairness to guide your interactions, rather than forming deep connections with others. This approach might feel like standing firm on your principles, but neurologically, it could be signaling an overreliance on your dorsal vagal complex. 

This part of your nervous system helps you stay still and disconnected, focusing on your own beliefs without truly engaging with those around you. Simultaneously, your sympathetic nervous system might be revving up, pushing you to assert your views and stand your ground.

This dual activation of the dorsal vagal and sympathetic systems can create a bit of a standoff within, making it challenging to truly connect and engage with others on a deeper level. So, how do you break this cycle and discover new ways of being, ways that bring you back in touch with your own body and the world around you?

One approach is to dive deep into your sensory experiences, to ground yourself in the here and now.

Presence, mostly to your body, is a keypoint. Under this point of view some techniques that ground yourself in your body and make you feel the inner sensations can be very good.

Think back to a time when you felt genuinely open and connected to others. Try to recall what that felt like in your body, the sensations, emotions, and energy that flowed through you. By revisiting this state, you invite yourself to explore life through this lens of openness and connection.

Envision carrying this sense of openness with you, letting it color your interactions and perspectives. Notice how this shift might change your approach to life, making it richer, more vibrant, and more connected. This is another facet of the polyvagal theory in action! You can harness your body's innate wisdom to foster deeper connections and a more fulfilling way of being.

ISTJ and Type 1

Building on the previous explanation, the behavior described aligns closely with Type One on the Enneagram, often characterized by a strong sense of morality, ethics, and the desire to improve both themselves and the world around them. Type Ones are driven by principles of right and wrong, and they often hold themselves and others to very high standards. This rigid adherence to what they perceive as 'correct' or 'just' can indeed correlate with an activation of the dorsal vagal complex, as it reflects a state of being where one is steadfast, perhaps even rigid, in their positions, leading to a certain level of disconnection from others.When we bring the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) into the conversation, particularly the ISTJ personality type, there's an interesting overlap. ISTJs, known for their dependability, practicality, and focus on tradition and rules, can exhibit similar tendencies. The 'I' (Introversion) in ISTJ might contribute to a preference for inward focus and contemplation, resonating with the dorsal vagal activation's aspect of withdrawal or disconnection in social contexts.The 'T' (Thinking) aspect, which emphasizes logic and objective decision-making over personal feelings or extenuating circumstances, can indeed be linked to the sympathetic nervous system's activation. This link is because the sympathetic system gears us up for action, often driven by a more analytical, detached approach to problem-solving and decision-making, mirroring the 'T' characteristic of prioritizing logic and efficiency.In summary, the behavior of Type One on the Enneagram, particularly when mirrored in an ISTJ personality type, can manifest as a dominance of the dorsal vagal system's activation, reflecting in their principled, sometimes rigid stance. The 'T' component of ISTJ further supports this with its correlation to the sympathetic system's action-oriented, logical approach. Understanding these dynamics from a polyvagal perspective offers insightful avenues for Type Ones and ISTJs to explore more balanced, connected ways of interacting with the world, potentially softening their rigid adherence to principles and allowing for more empathetic, engaged connections with others.

Other aspects of communicating with a type 1

You must create an ambiance of safety

Triggers of high sympathetic activity are the words error, wrong