Akito Sohma is one of the most compelling figures in the beloved anime series Fruits Basket. As the head of the Sohma family, Akito Sohma carries a heavy burden—one tied to a mysterious and ancient curse. This curse, known as the zodiac curse, causes members of the Sohma family to transform into animals of the Chinese zodiac whenever they’re embraced by someone of the opposite gender. Given this supernatural condition, Akito Sohma plays a pivotal role in preserving the secrecy of the curse and enforcing its rules across the family.

Now, when we really dive into who Akito Sohma is, it becomes clear that he’s far more than just a strict authority figure. He’s a deeply layered character whose actions are rooted in a painful past. Growing up in an environment filled with psychological abuse, Akito Sohma developed a guarded personality—mistrustful, emotionally distant, and often manipulative. These traits aren’t born out of pure malice but stem from profound loneliness and insecurity. In fact, Akito clings to the curse and the structure it provides because, for him, control over the Sohma family represents a way to feel secure in an otherwise unstable world.

That said, Akito Sohma isn’t without moments of vulnerability. There are times throughout the series when we catch glimpses of the wounded person beneath the cold exterior. These glimpses make Akito Sohma not only human but also relatable. He’s not purely evil; rather, he’s shaped by years of trauma and emotional neglect. As the story unfolds, Akito begins to reflect on their choices and slowly recognizes the damage the curse has inflicted on everyone involved. This internal evolution is central to Fruits Basket, highlighting core themes like love, healing, acceptance, and ultimately, forgiveness.

In many ways, Akito Sohma’s journey is one of the emotional backbones of the series. His transformation—from a controlling, feared leader to someone confronting their pain and seeking change—adds significant depth to the narrative. It’s hard to imagine Fruits Basket without Akito Sohma’s presence, given how much his character challenges both the other characters and the audience to think about empathy, power, and redemption.

From a personality standpoint, Akito Sohma seems to align closely with the INTJ type—Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging. People with this personality are often strategic, independent, and highly focused on long-term goals. Akito Sohma certainly fits that mold, especially in how they manage the Sohma family with calculated precision. Being introverted, Akito avoids close personal bonds and rarely opens up emotionally. However, what sets Akito apart is the intense inner conflict between logic and raw emotion. While INTJs typically rely on rational thinking, Akito’s deep-seated fears and unresolved trauma sometimes lead to impulsive, even destructive behavior. This suggests an unhealthy expression of the INTJ type—one where control becomes obsession, and judgment turns into cruelty.

Looking at Akito Sohma through another lens, such as the Enneagram, further enriches our understanding. He most likely embodies Type One: The Perfectionist. This type strives for integrity, order, and high moral standards. Akito Sohma clearly believes in a rigid sense of right and wrong and demands that others—especially the zodiac members—live up to those ideals. When things deviate from his expectations, Akito reacts with anger, sometimes lashing out in harsh or controlling ways. But behind this stern demeanor lies a deep fear of failure and disorder. Akito feels immense pressure to maintain perfection, not just for the family, but for himself. This fear drives much of his need for control and stems from a fragile sense of self-worth.

Ultimately, Akito Sohma stands out as a complex and tragic figure. Whether viewed through the lens of personality types or narrative function, Akito Sohma serves as a powerful exploration of how trauma shapes identity. Despite the harm caused, there’s a part of Akito that yearns for connection and peace. Over time, and with the help of others, Akito begins to confront these buried desires. So while Akito Sohma starts as a symbol of oppression, their arc evolves into something far more nuanced—a journey toward self-awareness, accountability, and, perhaps, healing.

All in all, Akito Sohma remains a vital and unforgettable character in Fruits Basket. Their struggles, flaws, and gradual growth reflect the show’s deeper messages about compassion and the possibility of change. And though Akito Sohma’s path is fraught with pain, it’s also one of the most transformative in the entire series.