Why People Confuse Them
Both strategies have a strong will, can be dominant and like to protect others. Some Twos, especially those in leadership roles, see strength and decisiveness in themselves and conclude they're Eights. On top of that, the Two shifts toward the Eight under pressure.
What the Difference Is
The Eight is direct. When they're unhappy, they say so and make it clear it's a fight. Under pressure, they push even harder and won't hesitate to threaten. The Two has great difficulty saying openly that they're angry. They choose hints, and when that doesn't work, they try to make the other person feel guilty by showing how much they're suffering.
Both fear rejection, but they control others differently and for different reasons. The Eight controls to protect themselves and expand their power. The Two controls so that others won't leave them. The Eight shows strength openly; the Two hides it beneath kindness.
Subtypes: The social Two, influential and protective, can be confused with the Eight, and the social Eight with the Two.
Three Questions That Settle It
Answer honestly, based on how things usually are, not how you'd like them to be.
- When someone makes you angry, what do you do?
2More likely a Two if you hint at it and wait for them to notice.
8More likely an Eight if you tell them straight to their face.
- Why do you want to have things under control?
2More likely a Two if it's so you don't lose the people close to you.
8More likely an Eight if it's so no one controls you and no one hurts you.
- How do you feel when you show weakness?
2More likely a Two if you don't mind, because it sometimes brings you closer to people.
8More likely an Eight if you avoid it, because weakness is a risk.
Not sure? The test will tell you in 10 minutes. What's my strategy? →
How to Spot a Two →How to Spot an Eight →How They Work Together in a Relationship →