Before analyzing why Jack Pearson embodies an Enneagram 8, let’s explore the core characteristics of the Eight personality type. The common term for an Eight is “The Challenger.” Eights are known for their desire to be in control and dislike of feeling powerless. An Eight in stress can take on characteristics of an Enneagram 5, and when they are doing well can demonstrate traits on an Enneagram 2. For comprehensive information about Enneagram types, explore The Enneagram Institute website or Truity, which offer detailed descriptions and insights.*
Make sure to check out my previous post where I shared why I decided to write about This Is Us. While I wouldn’t say that the show has a MAIN character, I would propose that Jack Pearson is the CENTRAL character. He is the patriarch of the Pearson family, and much of the show is presented based on him as the foundation.
Two reminders:
- There are spoilers ahead, so don’t keep reading if you don’t want things spoiled.
- I’m not going in order of how the series develops here, so my examples will be jumping around the seasons.
Now, let’s get into Jack’s personality.
Jack’s Protection
Jack grew up with an alcoholic father who was both physically and emotionally abusive to Jack, his brother Nicky, and especially their mom. While his personality was not created by his environment, it was reinforced by it. An Enneagram 8 with this kind of childhood is likely to have their controlling and protective nature reinforced.
Jack grew up trying to protect both his mother and his brother from his father’s violent outbursts. He felt that it was up to him to stand up to his dad (Season 1, Episode 11.) As he got older, he was able to convince his mom to leave his father for her own health and safety.
We also see Jack’s strong need to protect others when Nicky gets drafted into the Vietnam War. Jack will do whatever it takes to take care of Nicky, including cheating on his medical exam so he can go to Vietnam himself (Season 3, Episode 4.)
Family Leadership
Enneagram 8s are also known for being charismatic leaders, and Jack Pearson is no exception. His wife and children don’t just admire him. He is their hero. He is so influential that they put him on a pedestal in life and even more so after he dies. His love and care for his children inspires many of their own personalities and actions from the time they are small and well into adulthood. He is the epitome of honorable and trustworthy, and they all wish to make him proud long after his death.
His Seven Wing
Even more specific than being an Enneagram 8, I believe Jack has a 7 wing. He is known for his grand romantic gestures, and he is more than willing to recruit other people to be part of his plans. For example, in Season 5, Episode 12, he enlists his best friend Miguel to help recreate his first date with Rebecca. They set up a carnival in her apartment! He is able to constantly surprise Rebecca, and sometimes she even feels intimidated by his ability to sweep her off her feet. These are qualities that indicate an 8w7.
Additionally, though he works hard and stays in his job at the construction company where he works, Jack dreams of his own company. He wants to start Big Three Homes so he can be under his own control and bring his own visions to life. This is another indication that Jack is an Eight with a Seven wing.
Jack Retreats When Stressed
When life gets hard and stressful, Jack tends to retreat into himself. He has a very hard time taking care of himself during these times. Often he resorts to drinking in solitude. He must take time alone in order to process his thoughts and feelings. During these times, he pulls away from Rebecca and has a difficult time communicating with her. Usually he comes around and returns to his typical self once he has sifted through everything. These are all characteristic of an Eight moving to Five in times of stress.
Moving to Two
Enneagram 8s take on qualities of the Enneagram 2 when they are doing well. We also see this tendency in Jack. When he is at his best, he is a doting father intent on doing whatever it takes to help his children. One really good example of this is his attempt to find black male role models for Randall. He sees Randall struggling – asking questions about and seeking his biological parents. Jack is able to genuinely set aside his fears and let go of control in this situation. He takes Randall to karate lessons with black men and boys. (Season 1, Episode 9.) By doing this, he is showing a vulnerability that is more indicative of an Eight on their path to integration.
Understanding Jack Pearson as an Enneagram 8
Jack Pearson’s complex character exemplifies an Enneagram 8. I completely understand why his family loves and adores him and even more so when viewing him from a personality perspective. Jack’s fierce protection of his family, the way he inspires them to follow his lead, and the behaviors he exhibits in good times and bad all seem indicative of an Enneagram 8 to me. From this perspective, the ways he is able to overcome his struggles and inspire everyone around him makes him all the more admirable as a character.
* I also utilize The Wisdom of the Enneagram for analysis
