INFP vs ISFP: 9 Differences
INFP vs ISFP is an extremely common personality type dilemma, with most people erring on the side of intuition. Of course, there are multiple reasons for that. Intuitive content dominates the internet, which can make it especially challenging for sensors to accurately identify themselves. ISFPs especially seem to have very little content written about them. So, this article will highlight the differences between these two personality types from a cognitive function standpoint. Hopefully, it will clear up the INFP vs ISFP dilemma for you.
Beware of Bias
Sensors often mistype as intuitive types because intuitive types are seen as more desirable. Therefore, the ISFP is much more likely to mistype as an INFP than the other way around. Please evaluate yourself for any biases and set those aside in order to accurately identify your personality type. No personality type is better than the other.
INFP vs ISFP: Cognitive Functions
The INFP and the ISFP share dominant Introverted Feeling (Fi) and inferior Extraverted Thinking (Te), which actually makes these two personality types fairly similar. It’s their auxiliary and tertiary cognitive functions that differ. INFPs have auxiliary Extraverted Intuition (Ne) and tertiary Introverted Sensing (Si), while ISFPs have auxiliary Extraverted Sensing (Se) and tertiary Introverted Intuition (Ni).
In summary, their cognitive function stacks are as follows:
INFP = Fi-Ne-Si-Te
ISFP = Fi-Se-Ni-Te
INFP vs ISFP: Why Does This Mistype Happen?
The most basic reason any mistype happens is due to a failure to understand the cognitive functions. However, bias plays a major factor in the INFP vs ISFP mistype. For instance, INFPs are often described as deeper and more intellectual than ISFPs. ISFP descriptions like to focus on physical art and athletic ability. In addition, many ISFPs relate to the idealism and sentimentality ascribed to INFPs. (Dominant Fi plays a significant role in idealism and sentimentality.) The aim of this article is to focus on their differences in cognition, and the way these differences might manifest in the external world, so that you can see past the misleading stereotypes.
INFP vs ISFP: 9 Differences
Note: This article is discussing INFP vs ISFP tendencies, not absolutes. Everyone can and should grow over time, which will make it harder to distinguish their personality type. Your default tendencies, or the ones you displayed when you were young, will be the most telling. Identify your natural leaning, where you had to grow from.
1. INFPs build high expectations for their experiences, while ISFPs want to appreciate the present
Ne is an imaginative function, focused on hypothetical scenarios that may or may not ever happen. INFPs tend to fall into the trap of imagining their future experiences, before they actually experience them, building a complex, mental image in their mind (Si) of how the experience could or should go. The unfortunate result of this tendency is that INFPs may find themselves disappointed by experiences themselves, preferring to live in their imagination. They may get picky about what exactly they’re willing to experience, or form detailed preferences for everything.
As Se users, ISFPs are more open-minded when it comes to their experiences. They want to appreciate what life has to offer now. Sure, ISFPs will have preferences that they’re aware of, but they’re less likely to place high expectations specifically on their physical experiences. They don’t want to overthink things to the extent that it prevents them from enjoying life. They try to take each moment as it comes, and get what they can out of it. I’m not saying that ISFPs aren’t imaginative. However, they won’t compare each experience with a detailed mental image from either their imagination or their past.
2. INFPs have an easier time putting words to their thoughts, while ISFPs struggle to place words to their thoughts
Those with Si, regardless of the placement, typically have a concrete connection to their thoughts. As a result, these types are often capable of expressing their thoughts as they’re thinking them. (Naturally, as introverts, they won’t always share their thought process out loud.) However, because of this ability, NPs, like the INFP, don’t always fully flesh out an idea or thought before sharing it. As a result, they often backpedal immediately after the words leave their mouth, or end up over-explaining (sharing excessive detail in the process) in attempt to pin down exactly what they want to say.
ISFPs, on the other hand, have an abstract connection to their thoughts, with their tertiary Ni. They often struggle to express their thoughts on the spur of the moment, especially when entering the realm of ideas. As a result, they’re more likely to find themselves grasping for words, but finding none. They’re usually resistant to sharing half-baked thoughts, preferring to have plenty of time to find the words to produce a concise explanation. So, while INFPs may be prone to over-explaining, ISFPs will be prone to under-explaining.
3. INFPs actively brainstorm, while ISFPs wait for epiphanies
INFPs, as Ne users, look to the external world for ideas. Brainstorming for these types is an active process. They like to discuss ideas with others, think out loud, consciously engage their thought process to trace possibilities and connections, etc.
ISFPs, however, struggle to engage in active brainstorming, preferring to form their ideas internally. They have Ni, which is known for epiphanies, and there’s a reason for that. It’s not that only Ni users can have epiphanies, but rather that, Ni often operates more subconsciously. ISFPs may quickly hit up against a metaphorical brainstorming wall, and then place the problem on the back burner (sleep on it, so to speak). They’ll then wait for an idea to magically come to them.
4. INFPs hyper-analyze their feelings and identity, while ISFPs have a more abstract sense of self
Dominant Fi working in tandem with Si often leads INFPs to excessively analyze their identity (“Who am I?”), and anything that has a significant impact on it, like their feelings and values. They will run scenarios and to further flesh out their understanding of themselves. As a result, INFPs are more likely to form a clear definition of who they are and what it means to be them.
An ISFP’s sense of self is more instinctual, as Se often is. ISFPs feel what they feel, and respond accordingly. As dominant Fi users, they will evaluate all of their potential actions through the lens of who they are. However, they’re not often running hypothetical scenarios in advance. Their self-analysis will be more reactive, such as asking “Is this me?” when prompted to make a decision. (Their focus is on real life situations rather than hypotheticals.) They’ll have an ideal image of themselves, with established values, but it may not be extremely detailed.
5. INFPs often express themselves through language, while ISFPs express themselves through physical means
Since INFPs are good at placing words to their thoughts and feelings, they tend to excel at using language to express themselves. Stereotypically, this is why INFPs are known for being writers and poets. They often have a verbal wealth of creative ways to express themselves and the depth of their feelings which will be fraught with abstract, metaphorical, or dramatic language.
While ISFPs can certainly be writers and poets, they typically default to expressing themselves more directly, rather than abstractly. As a result, these types often express themselves in physical ways, through action. Stereotypically, this is why ISFPs are known for being artists. Of course, while many turn to art to as a means of self-expression, not all will. You can be an ISFP and not be an artist. (Although, art can take many forms, such as wood working or martial arts.)
Related Article: Mistyping the ISFP
6. INFPs enjoy random speculation, while ISFPs will want it to be grounded to reality in some way
A key distinction people make between intuitives and sensors, which applies to INFP vs ISFP, is their propensity for abstraction. Many make it sound as if sensors cannot theorize or speculate on abstract subjects. That is incorrect. The truth of the matter is much less black and white.
As Ne users, INFPs are open-minded about possibilities. They will engage in random, and even pointless, speculation purely for the sake of it. They thrive on doing so, finding it to be natural and entertaining. These types will consider all kinds of hypotheticals, even if they’re unlikely or impractical. (The “what if” scenarios.)
ISFPs can certainly engage in abstract speculation, but they may struggle if it’s not realistic or somehow anchored in reality. In other words, if the speculation lacks a practical purpose and detaches too far from reality, they may be resistant to joining in, seeing it as either pointless, boring, or too much effort.
Note: An ISFP’s desire to have speculation grounded in reality, does not mean they won’t enjoy watching and discussing fantasy media. This has more to do with something like… “What if the moon was made of cheese?”
7. INFPs may spend to long theorizing, while ISFPs may be too eager to act
As types that prioritize exploring possibilities, INFPs may find that they enjoy imagining doing something more than actually doing it. Therefore, their theorizing may begin to unnecessarily delay action. For instance, they may linger too long in the “planning” phase, spending too long thinking or talking about something at the expense of actually doing it. This is why high Ne users, or the NPs, are known for being focused on theory rather than action.
However, ISFPs will have the reverse problem. Sure, these types types often enjoy daydreaming. That’s not what this point is referring to. Rather, when focused on an activity or endeavour, they usually prefer to get right into the action (opting to figure things out as they go), so they can enjoy the experience. Therefore, they’ll spend just enough time in the “planning” phase to determine the next step. This is why SPs are known for being physically impulsive and action-oriented. They won’t want to get so bogged down with theory that it never leads to action.
8. INFPs generate (and discard) multiple ideas, while ISFPs fixate on one or two
Ne users tend to be good at coming up with ideas, because they entertain a range of possibilites. Of course, NPs may not always feel like they are good at formal brainstorming, but they are usually good at coming up with ideas when they need to. Bear in mind, INFPs are auxiliary Ne users so they won’t have millions of ideas. However, they’re usually good at producing a few, letting go of the ones that get nixed, and then producing more.
ISFPs, with their lower Ni, usually only one or two ideas that they think have potential. There may be a lot ideas that they never consider, almost as if they subconsciously ruled those ideas out before allowing them to breech conscious thought. Their tendency to fixate on only one or two ideas can make it hard for them to give these ideas up and produce new ones. Brainstorming is not typically the strong suit of these types. They find it easier to put someone else’s ideas into action .
9. INFPs may see a million ways something might go wrong, while ISFPs may fixate on one inevitable, doomed outcome
Ne gone wrong frequently leads to a form of paranoia, in which the individual imagines all the possible ways that something might go wrong. INFPs might jump between different possibilities, unable to fixate on just one, leaving them spinning endlessly. Of course, the failure to hone in on one specific outcome can leave them frozen in fear, feeling overwhelmed and unable to decide how best to prepare.
As Ni users, ISFPs usually fixate on an abstract or general outcome, such as inevitable failure. An abstract fixation such as this doesn’t have a lot of specific parameters to fulfill, and thus can be achieved in a multitude of different ways. Everywhere around them, no matter where they look, they may see reality pushing them towards this one inevitable outcome, leaving them frozen in fear, unable to move forward.
Related Article: The Myers-Briggs Personality Types In a Loop, Part 2: The Introverts
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I’ve gotta say I liked the way you explained the differences between ISFP and INFP.
I found myself relating to all the ISFP points due to being how I experience things.
Thanks it helped clear things up I once had this problem where I was confused if I was an ISFP or INFP.
As a possible ISFP I’ve gotta say great work!
Thank you! Glad it was relatable.
Thanks for the content. I really like this trend of increasing the number of articles being published. I don’t know if this is temporary or not, but it’s nice anyway.
By the way, I would like to clarify something. I don’t know, maybe you’ve already mentioned this somewhere, but I’ll ask. Do you do articles on manga? It just seems to me that there are a huge number of very interesting and deep characters in this area, whose analysis would significantly deepen the understanding of types.
Thanks in advance for your answer.
Two articles a week used to be normal, but things got pretty hectic this past year. I’m trying to get back to two articles a week, but it may take some time to be consistent about it
I’m not necessarily opposed to doing manga. However, right now, I don’t have the time to do alot of reading.
I really liked this article 🙂 It’s always nice reading about Fi doms, especially SFPs. Also confirmed some things for me. I love seeing articles that delve into differences and the explanations behind each function and how it shows up in the real world. It’s always interesting and like a gold nugget of insight.
Question
Me being an Si + Fi user, I find that I need a specific concrete word (Si) from an externally verified source (like a dictionary or authority figure where there is a verified label –> Te or Te/Si?) to get closure around my feelings, identity, beliefs (Fi). I find that I don’t need validation for my feelings, just verification. A label that says “Yes, that’s a legitimate or real option.” (Ne serving Te, perhaps? Not seeing or considering possibilities unless they’ve been verified as possible)
Real meaning verified by some system, ideology, belief system, or some authority figure or text. (Like a dictionary or possibly someone else’s experience if they’re been pre-verified in my eyes)
No verification or official label for whatever I’m feeling, believe, etc. = a lack of closure = feeling like I’m on uncertain or unstable ground because my feelings are usually a physical symptom than a… whatever it is for FPs. (A conviction?)
Every function serves Te. With every emotion, physical reaction, etc. that I have, I have to find the reason behind it, especially my feelings. I find that it’s hard for me to sit with a feeling without finding the reason behind it. (Thankfully, it’s extremely rare that happens)
So do INFPs feel similarly about needing words to find closure around their feelings? Or does feeling the feeling itself provide closure for them? Or perhaps generating possibilities on what those feelings could mean instead of finding the reason behind all of them gives them closure..?
And what about ISFPs?
Do Fi doms *want* closure? Or is this more of an inferior feeling get-it-out-the-way sort of mentality? After all, Fi at the top is supposed to be a lifelong journey sort of thing while I have more of a get it done and out of the way mentality with my feelings because they can get in the way sometimes if I’m not in the mood for it.
For me, any time I’m feeling a feeling, it usually shows up first as a physical symptom (Si) before the emotion itself hits me (Fi). The feeling doesn’t go away and it keeps nagging me until I can identity the precise pinpoint word for it then it’s gone. (Fi serving Si? Or maybe Si/Fi in general)
Do INFPs need words too or nah? And what about Si/Fe users? Do they need precise words too? Or maybe as feelers they don’t need closure around their feelings like I might? (Having inferior feeling makes it hard to ignore any feelings that do sprout up because it’s physically uncomfortable and holds me back until I can take care of it. Perhaps Se/F_ is the opposite and channels all of that outwards instead of internalizing the physical sensation of said emotions?)
I get any type can be internalize and externalize their feelings and such, but it does make me wonder if those with Si in their stack feel more compelled to use concrete terms to get closure around their feelings or whatever correlating Ji function they got compared to Se users? It’d be an interesting discussion.
I’d love one day to get a step-by-step sort of demonstration on what goes on in Fi doms’ heads when they’re engaging with their Fi and figuring their values and identity out. I like to think I do something similar to them, but probably not lol.
I’m imaging a manual of some sort with steps on what happens, but something tells me they’re probably not gonna be too happy being.. step by stepped lol.
Finally, how much of this can you relate to, Mara? I’m curious what it’s like for you, being an Se/Fe user.
Alrighty, I think I’m done now. Thanks for reading my walls of text as usual lol. I’d like to see what Fi doms or FPs think as well. (If they’re interested in answering)
Hey,
Here is my take on some of your points :
“Me being an Si + Fi user, I find that I need a specific concrete word (Si) from an externally verified source (like a dictionary or authority figure where there is a verified label –> Te or Te/Si?) to get closure around my feelings, identity, beliefs (Fi). I find that I don’t need validation for my feelings, just verification. A label that says “Yes, that’s a legitimate or real option.” (Ne serving Te, perhaps? Not seeing or considering possibilities unless they’ve been verified as possible)”
– Sounds like inf. Fi struggling to pinpoint it’s feelings and stances and instead leaning towards the objective Te to define it. Si helps with being more specific, due to the data it internalizes.
“For me, any time I’m feeling a feeling, it usually shows up first as a physical symptom (Si) before the emotion itself hits me (Fi). The feeling doesn’t go away and it keeps nagging me until I can identity the precise pinpoint word for it then it’s gone. (Fi serving Si? Or maybe Si/Fi in general).”
– Can not relate lol. I (speaking on my behalf) recognize my inner state quite quickly and then certain symptoms may arise from that.
“No verification or official label for whatever I’m feeling, believe, etc. = a lack of closure = feeling like I’m on uncertain or unstable ground because my feelings are usually a physical symptom than a… whatever it is for FPs. (A conviction?)”
– Here’s the deal : The value system for Fi users is based on how they feel about x. So I might feel strongly about x and depending on the feeling I choose to accept or reject this part and go off from that. What seems wild to others might be quite well defined in my head…until I have to verbalize it lol. Internally it can be quite a vivid picture or thought, but it is easier to act on this and see, if what I have in mind works or needs some adjustment.
Regarding the “needing closure” point of yours : I do need to analyze my feelings and values in order to know how to move forward in life. My feelings and internal reactions are sort of like a radar, that scans for new input and my value system is a representation of the radar data being processed into my life.
Thanks, Infinity! The concept of feeling an emotion without a physical sensation is really hard to imagine for me. The closest thing I can imagine is maybe after crying where the physical symptoms leave and you get a sense of clarity afterwards but eh? What do your feelings feel like to you if it’s not a physical thing?
I think for me it is more akin to a mental state I get into. I recognize something triggering me (positive or negative) and this spins in my head. I have to figure out why that is or get it out of my system (mostly by journaling or having smth to do, that distracts me lol). Also it is worth mentioning, that in case of strong emotions, I do get physical reactions and have to calm down to get to my preferred calm and even state.
Hmm. Okay, I can kinda see that. 🤔 Thanks for your input!
This is a good way to put feelings into words, as a state of mind. As an (possible) ISFP, feelings are very visceral to me. But even in the absence of feelings I might think there SHOULD be feelings. For example, when my pet cats died and I had different reactions to them. One died and I felt nothing – that makes me sceptical since I SHOULD be grieving (but in this case, antidepressents made me feel nothing), while when my other cat died I had a different feeling than sadness, but this made more “sense” to me than feeling nothing. You see that Fi is similar to Ti, but about feelings. And there is some sort of construct or framework around feelings. But it is more of an intuitive process. Fi also puts “worth” on feeling reactions. Idk if that helps making any sense to you.
This seems to hit a lot of the same points as the ISTP INTP type comparison article! It makes sense, we have the exact same perceiving functions, just this one has more of an Fi focus, haha. Another article on the Fi doms is also very welcome since I still don’t think I have the best grasp on what exactly that cognitive function is and more information might help me get a better grasp on it.
I think I can sort of get an idea if I contrast it with the other function on the axis: Te. Te’s usually a pretty goal-oriented function, right? If I think of Te in its most extreme form, I think of someone who would do ANYTHING to do whatever their goal is. (This isn’t meant as a reflection on Te doms, by the way. I’m sure they have certain lines they won’t cross, this is just more of a thought exercise to help me understand.) So, the exact opposite extreme of that spectrum, to me, would be someone who has values/morals that they won’t sacrifice for anything and they would put these above the goal every time. (Again, not saying Fi doms are always moral paragons of righteousness and virtue, this is more of a thought exercise.) And in a lot of descriptions of Fi I’ve read, emotions and self-identity are tied into this… I still don’t think I completely understand it but that’s where I am right now, haha.
Good article as always!
Hi there 🙂 Yeah, Te is pretty goal-oriented. That’s one form of extreme Te for sure. Another way Te could come out is just mindlessly checking things off the list and spiraling into workaholism and being busy just to do *something* without any personal fulfillment. (The latter kicks in when they’re in touch with their Fi).
A lot of it ties to an addiction to closure about said thing. Not getting something done when it’s already started bothers me a lot and it just nags at me at the back of my mind unless I mentally schedule a time to get it done later. I suspect this also has to do with wanting to mentally solidify things. Unfinished = a moving part; finished = set and done. Or at least that’s what it feels like for me.
Finally, extreme Te = easily swept up into outside agendas, pressure, and unable to resist no matter how hard we try because we don’t even know what XYZ means for us or if it’s worth it. It’s like guarding an empty crate or protecting something you don’t get, but you can’t leave it or let people touch or see it.
I’d imagine with extreme Te (and therefore very little Fi), their feelings feel uncertain, shaky, vague, solidified and threatening. Or it can be reduced down to just a physical symptom, but I’d imagine they’d be more compelled to see what they’re feeling than a Ti dom might. (Or maybe the second part just applies to ESTJs and not ENTJs).
Visually, weak Fi is like a bone with osteoporosis that’s barely standing on its own while everyone else seems to have a bright condensed ball that’s actually theirs, if that makes any sense. Everyone else has this passion, magic, and vibrancy to their lives while you… just don’t. (Lol)
I’m curious what your type is?
Thanks for the insight! I’m an INTP… I think. The functions seem to fit how I think the most out of all the types.
“… but I’d imagine they’d be more compelled to see what they’re feeling than a Ti dom might.”
I don’t exactly pay close attention to my emotions all the time, I feel like I consciously have to stop and try to… assess them? So that’s probably accurate, haha.
Hmm, I see. When do you feel like you should stop to try and assess them? What kind of situations usually have to happen for this happen?
I’m not sure. Due to not really “keeping track” of them and my reactions it’s kind of hard to recall, but I guess due to Fe a lot of the time it might be stuff other people do?
Like hearing a completely horrifying story of a mother who killed her children to stop her husband from taking them in the divorce, I just think of what a disgusting person she must be to do that. (She was even playing with them a bit before she hid the knife she used to do it in her son’s room.) And then my blood starts to boil. I don’t think I have trouble actually giving names to the emotions I’m experiencing, though. I think in this case it’s a mix of “disgust”, “anger” and “hatred” toward the mother and “sadness” for the dead children and their grieving father. I don’t think giving a name to them actually helped, though. I think I ended up distracting myself or doing something else until they blew over but recalling the story I think those old feelings are starting to come back. I don’t think I have a consistent “strategy” for dealing with feelings like this, I think it tends to change. Sometimes I just distract myself like before, sometimes I just let them sit (this is as best I can recall, considering I don’t keep the best track of them and they’re usually sort of in the background… kind of like construction noises happening on the street when you’re trying to concentrate on something?) and sometimes I purposely try to force myself to relax and hope they “calm down” or simmer down a bit. Actually diving into the emotions themselves and the in-depth personal reasons for why I might be feeling that way is sort of uncomfortable and confusing depending on the situation (confusing since emotions tend to be inconsistent, ever-changing and… frankly kind of weird for lack of a better word, haha) so I tend to avoid doing that… haha. These strategies may or may not work and seem to have random levels of effectiveness, by the way, so I don’t think I’m the best at it.
Hmm, interesting. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
I have never experienced boiling blood or any extremely intense emotions for more than a few seconds. It’s hard to hold onto those feelings, and it’s like they escape and slip out of my grasp before I can do anything. I have an INTP friend who reports similarly.
To reference, when I read your comment about the mother, I didn’t really feel anything. And I didn’t really have any strong convictions against it. It’s interesting since I got an INTP in my life who has similar reactions towards similar things you do, considering I always associated that reaction with Fi (righteousness, right/wrong). But perhaps I’ve been pigeon-holing inferior Fe as being void of morals or morally gray. (I can relate to the morally idrc mentality most of the time).
I liked how you compared feelings to construction noises down the street, because that’s what they’re like for me in a situation where I need or wanna be composed. 😂 My feelings just feel like this physical sensation in my head that’s threatening to erupt sometimes if I’m annoyed or frustrated; or they can feel like this hyper-sensitive, shrinking down, scared thing when I’m alone. It’s interesting since I usually feel more like myself, or like a person when I’m alone since I’m in my feelings (which is usually soothing, calming, peaceful, so I’m not a basket case lol). Versus when I’m around people, it’s like I can’t access my feelings (which then ticks off the Fe users sometimes if I can’t give them enough of an emotional reaction, or whatever reaction I *do* have feels so forced that I’m just crossing my fingers and hoping they won’t act weird about it LOL). Perhaps it’s inferior Fi. Perhaps it’s some unrelated thing. Who knows. 🙃
“Actually diving into the emotions themselves and the in-depth personal reasons for why I might be feeling that way is sort of uncomfortable and confusing depending on the situation (confusing since emotions tend to be inconsistent, ever-changing and… frankly kind of weird for lack of a better word, haha) so I tend to avoid doing that… haha.”
Interesting. 👀 I like analyzing my feelings, especially when I’m alone. I’m almost addicted to it sometimes because it feels kind of soothing and gives me clarity a lot of the times. My favorite activity is tying my feelings back to a past experience and seeing where they all come from. It’s soothing, addicting, and gives me closure and it’s comforting. 🥰
And LOL it’s fine. It’s interesting how you’re also effecitveness-oriented about your feelings like I am. (I like using my feelings as a tool to solve problems, make myself more effective, etc.)
That being said, major side tangent aside, I’m curious how you see Fe, Fi, and Te doms?
Ok, that actually didn’t take that long, so the previous post seems a bit redundant now. Oh, well…
“ “ I’m curious how you see Fe, Fi, and Te doms?”
Oh no, I hope I don’t perpetuate any stereotypes, haha. This might be slightly filtered:
Fe doms: People focused in one way or another. I don’t think this NECESSARILY means they focus on helping others or that they have good social skills, but I do think it’s more likely? Of course, a more malevolent Fe dom could use their function to be more manipulative or to try to cow the group in a certain direction. As an inferior Fe user I’m sort of jealous of “effortless” their dealings with people seem but they probably do sacrifice a lot of their time and energy helping/interacting/building rapport with them so it’s probably not really effortless at all.
Fi doms: Emotion/Values/Morals/Self-Identity focused? I don’t think I really “listen” to my emotions (use them to make decisions) that often (Usually stuff like ordering a favorite food, etc.) so this process feels kind of foreign to me, but I think they pay attention to how certain things, people or situations make them feel and use this as a sort of barometer for if they’re staying true to their values or self-identity. Again… I think. Not sure about this at all. I do think it’s pretty noble, though, having a moral or personal code of sorts that you try to never, ever deviate from. (One of this site’s articles said Ti users’ rules/morals are more situational and prone to change which I think fits how I approach these situations more.)
Te doms: Objective information focused. Tend to value outside information/sources over their own judgement/view of things in contrast to Ti doms who might reject information if it doesn’t fit into their Ti system of subjective logic. (That’s not to say Te users will never reject information or will just recklessly take everything in, I think they more search for the qualifications of the person saying the information or if it’s backed up by a study etc., I think a Ti user could still reject the information even if it has all of that if it seems “off” to them for one reason or another, according to their Ti framework.) Results are objective information (this either worked or it didn’t) which is why they tend to value results so much and tend to be goal/efficiency focused since that helps them to get to those results faster. I think they also have a tendency to try to control or mold their environment (and/or the people in their environment, if they’re working on/toward something) into a system of some sort. Though, I think I’ve heard from some Te doms that this efficiency is essentially speed-running (video game term for people who try to finish the game as fast as possible) the objective so that it can be over and done with and they can relax. I’m not a Te user so I’m not sure about this, either. I think I have a slightly better grasp on it than Fi, though, since it’s a thinking function, haha.
A lot of this is based on Mara and Ryan’s articles and some other sources so this isn’t my wholly original opinion or anything, but hopefully I got my thoughts across okay, as rambley as they are, haha”
Sorry for my grammar in English (it’s not my first language).
I think the person who raised me since I was a child is possibly a Te dom (ESTJ) and does not always believe what a person tells her, because she clings to what she believes to be true and her Fi is very developed. So any offense to her identity she doesn’t pay attention to (that’s why I thought she was ISTJ, but she has no inferior ne). The funny thing is that she and I like mysteries, although I know that the interests have nothing to do with the MBTI.
I (I’m still not sure about my MBTI), but I thought before that I was ISTP or ISFP because of the tests, but the whole framework of my childhood and adolescence was about meeting my goals, being in charge of tidying up the room, etc… and I very little sat down to think about who I was or to always delve deeper into my subjective logic.
That’s why I think it may be that I have Te – Fi (I’m not sure yet), but despite that, in my childhood I thought that we human beings were part of characters in a story, I also used to ask a lot of questions (that’s why my grandmother told me that I had to learn to analyze by observing).
I even wonder if a Te Dom could believe in extraterrestrials, because I do believe in them and since I like everything mysterious because it makes me think, I see the world as a place with mystery to discover and as I used to like the astrophysics was talking to the philosophy professor about those topics. I am always arguing with my grandmother about thoughts, because many times I don’t agree with what she says.
Anyway, I know that MBTI is the people who live with me, but it’s hard for me to know mine.