INFP is a four-letter acronym that means Introverted, Intuitive perceiving, and feeling. In the case of INFP, it is a type that is described as Introverted. INFP personal type can be described as among the 16 distinct types that are identified in the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI).
In the world of INFP, the INFP character type is typically identified as having an “idealist” and a “mediator” type of personality. People with this type of personality are usually introverted, idealistic, and creative and influenced by high standards.
InfPs strive to improve the quality of life in this world and are enthused about ways they can assist others. They also seek to acquire more knowledge of themselves and how they fit into the larger world.
People who have this type of personality are often thinking about their purpose in life, and pondering ways to use their talents and abilities to help others.
“This personality type is known to focus on their interests when they are in something, but they may struggle to maintain their enthusiasm for something they don’t care about or have a passion for,” says Christopher Hansen an accredited expert counselor with Thriveworks situated in Austin, TX.
The Key INFP Characteristics of Key INFP
INFPs are typically quiet, introverted, and quiet. Social interactions can exhaust their energy and they are more comfortable with a small group of close friends. Although they prefer to be in solitude, this should not necessarily be mistaken for being shy. 1 In fact, it is simply that INFPs get energy by being able to spend time in solitude. In contrast, they are required to use energy when they are in social situations.
In general, INFPs rely on their intuition and focus on the larger picture than the smaller particulars. They are often very attentive to things they are passionate about or the projects they’re working on but often overlook routine or boring things.
When it is time to make choices INFPs prefer to be flexible. They are often hesitant to make crucial decisions until circumstances change. When decisions are made they’re usually made based on personal preferences instead of rationality.
Cognitive functions of an INFP
The MBTI is an interpretation of a theory about personality that was developed by Swiss psychoanalyst Carl Jung. 2
Jung believed in the existence of four components of the psychological part of the personality: thinking, sensing, feeling, and intuition. Then, people direct all of these functions of their brains inwardly (introverted) or outsideward (extroverted).
In the MBTI it is clear that each type of personality is comprised of a hierarchical array that includes these roles. The most dominant function determines personality, but it is assisted by secondary and to a lesser extent tertiary functions. These functions are predominantly unconscious but have an influence.
Dominant: Introverted Feeling
INFPs have a deep range of emotions but, being introverts, they tend to manage their emotions internally. They have a profound curiosity about the world around them and experience great empathy and compassion for others.
Though these emotions are intense, INFPs tend not to show them in public and that’s why they may be viewed as distant or unfriendly.
Auxiliary: Extraverted Intuition
INFPs investigate situations through imagination and “what if” scenarios, frequently mulling over many possibilities before choosing an action plan. Their personal lives have a major influence on the way they interact with the world around them making use of their intuition.
INFPs focus their attention on what they consider to be the “big image” and the things that determine the direction of the next decade. This helps them become powerful leaders, who are enthusiastic about bringing positive change to the world.
Tertiary: Introverted Sensing
When they absorb information, INFPs form vivid memories of incidents. They frequently replay memories in their heads to evaluate their experiences in less stressful environments. These memories are typically connected to strong emotions, and reliving a memory is often as if reliving the event.
Inferior Thinking: Extraverted
The cognitive function of the brain involves organizing and interpreting the meaning of the universe rationally and rationally. While it’s an essentially subconscious influence on an INFP’s personality, extraversion may manifest itself during times under pressure. In the event of pressure, the INFP could suddenly become focused and analytical and focused on logic and not emotions.
Because they are governed more by emotion and intuition, INFPs can sometimes struggle to be productive and efficient. In the process of developing their extrovert thinking capability can aid those who have INFP personalities. INFP personality type develops an improved sense of equilibrium.
Personal Relationships with INFPs
INFPs are idealists so they tend to have high expectations–including in relationships. They may have an idealized picture in their heads of their ideal partner which is a challenging job for anyone to fulfill.
People who have an INFP personality type are extremely concerned about the other people around them. But, being introverts, they are difficult to get to know. They are likely to be extremely close and deeply committed to a handful of people that whom they build close relationships.
INFPs are also prone to dislike conflict and attempt to avoid conflict. When arguments or conflicts do occur, they typically concentrate on how they feel, rather than the specifics. When they are in a heated argument, INFPs might seem overly emotional or even crazy. But, they can be effective mediators, aiding others in a dispute to recognize and articulate their emotions.
“This type of person does not necessarily mean they avoid social interaction, but tend to prefer close relationships and small groups, and enjoy the solitude,” says Hansen.
Since INFPs are extremely quiet as well as private it may be difficult for others to meet INFPs. They are typically dedicated to their close circle of family and friends. They put a lot of emphasis on the emotions and feelings of their beloved family members.
Career Pathways for INFPs
INFPs generally excel in professions where they can show their imagination as well as vision. Although they can work in teams, they usually prefer working alone.
INFPs tend to be creative and artistic as well as religious. They’re usually proficient in languages, however, they might prefer to communicate emotions and thoughts in writing instead of talking. 5
Since they are adamant about their morals and values, INFPs get passionate about promoting or fighting for their convictions. While they believe strongly in their values They are also curious about other people and will hear and take a look at all the aspects of an issue.
Tips to Interact With INFPs
If you’re friends with an INFP or are in some way involved in a relationship with one of their parents, INFP family members, or involved in a relationship with an INFP Here are some helpful tips to interact with them.
Friendships
INFPs generally have only some close relationships however, these friendships tend to last for a long time. Although people with this kind of personality are skilled at comprehending the emotions of others they struggle to express their own emotions with others.
Social contact can be challenging however, INFPs are drawn to affectionate intimacy and deep connections. Making friends with the personality of an INFP takes time and effort, but the benefits are worth it for those with patience and knowledge.
Parenting
INFP parents are typically friendly, compassionate, and warm. They are adept at establishing guidelines for children and helping them build strong moral ethics. 6
The goal of parents who are INFPs is to assist their children develop as individuals and to fully comprehend the wonders of the universe. They may have difficulty sharing their personal feelings with their children and tend to be focused on creating peace in the home.
Relationships
In the same way as friendships, INFPs might be unable to connect with prospective romantic companions. When they do establish relationships they take it on with a strong belief in dedication.
If you have a partner who is INFP be aware that they might struggle sometimes to be open. They might also be sensitive to criticisms from others and may often place your satisfaction over their own.