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Helping women in prison to better understand themselves and others Using the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator to help women in prison become aware of their potential is one of hundreds of ways in which Medical Mission Sisters around the world try to be a healing presence to others today. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), based on the work of Carl Jung, has been used by millions of people around the world to help them better understand themselves and others. For the past 11 years, Sister Kathleen Fitzgerald has been offering the MBTI at the Maryland Correctional Institution for Women in Jessup, Maryland. “This indicator has helped me very much to appreciate the unique giftedness of each person, including myself,” she says.
“I believe that participation in this program helps the women to grow in self-understanding and appreciation of their gifts, as well as fostering understanding of others and enhancing communication skills,” Sister Kathleen adds. “For me, to see the expression of joy/delight as a woman recognizes her characteristics and gifts in the type descriptions is a highlight of this ministry.” When women are admitted to the prison, they attend an orientation session where they hear about the program. If a woman chooses to participate, she answers a questionnaire, then Sister Kathleen schedules a one-hour feedback session. Through an optional follow-up workshop, women can explore how knowledge of their and others' personality types facilitates communication and working together.
Over 750 women in the prison have benefited from the program. One of them reflects, "I found the MBTI to be very helpful, and very enlightening at the same time ... I lost myself in addiction and I really believe that the 'Would You Like to Know Yourself Better' test came right on time ... it's great to have a start in the right direction. God bless and thanks." In 2007, Sister Kathleen was honored by the Maryland Correctional Institution for Women for a decade of loving service.
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