Why we think Vladimir Putin is a Type 8

• Shows of strength and masculinity. Putin frequently engages in displays of physical prowess. His well-publicized activities, such as riding a horse shirtless, flying with migrating birds, practicing judo, hunting, or scuba diving to archaeological sites, are not just hobbies but also displays of vitality, strength, and connection with the Russian land. 

• Using tactics to make others squirm. In 2007, Putin brought his pet Labrador to a meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who has a strong fear of dogs due to being attacked by one in 1995. Putin had a smirk on his face while Merkel showed discomfort in the meeting. The New Yorker reported that Merkel later told journalists, “I understand why he has to do this – to prove he’s a man.… He’s afraid of his own weakness. Russia has nothing, no successful politics or economy. All they have is this.”

• Emphasizing his identity as a protector. He portrays himself as a protector of Russian values and sovereignty. He frequently plays into the narrative of Russia as a 'besieged fortress,' with forces (usually Western) trying to undermine it. This narrative bolsters his image as a defender, standing up against those who threaten Russia. His background in the KGB (and its successor agency, the FSB) are also part of his identity as a protector. 

• Dominating body language. Putin's physical posture is upright and commanding. He uses his posture and body language to convey dominance in interactions with other leaders. He also rarely displays overt emotion in public settings, which he’d see as a sign of weakness in political and intelligence settings.

• Domineering control. Putin maintains tight control over major media outlets in Russia. TV stations, in particular, have come under the influence of the state or pro-Kremlin business figures. He passed laws that restrict NGOs and label them as "foreign agents" if they receive international funding, effectively stigmatizing and hampering their operations. He has placed former colleagues in key positions of power and expanded the influence of security and intelligence agencies.

• “Kill or be killed” approach to power. After the fall of the Soviet Union, oligarchs rose to power in Russia and had significant influence over politics. Putin's rise to power was all about stomping out the opposition in an aggressive way. Even after he consolidated power, his presidency continues to be all about suppressing the power of others in aggressive ways so that he can maintain his power. Examples include the arrests of and threats toward Mikhail Khodorkovsky, Anna Politkovskaya, Boris Nemtsov, and Alexei Navalny.