The MBTI itself is based upon a theory of personality created by the Swiss psychoanalyst Carl Jung.3 He proposed that there are four psychological components of personality: thinking, feeling, sensation, and intuition. People then direct each of these cognitive functions inwardly (introverted) or outwardly (extraverted).
In the MBTI, each personality type is made up of a hierarchical stack of these functions. The dominant function is one that largely controls personality, although it is also supported by the auxiliary and, to a lesser degree, the tertiary functions. Inferior functions are those that are largely unconscious but still exert some influence.
INFPs tend to rely on the following four cognitive functions:
INFPs experience a great depth of feelings, but as introverts they largely process these emotions internally. They possess an incredible sense of wonder about the world and feel great compassion and empathy for others. While these emotions are strong, they tend not to express them outwardly, which is why they can sometimes be mistaken as aloof or unwelcoming.
INFPs explore situations using imagination and 'what if' scenarios, often thinking through a variety of possibilities before settling on a course of action. Their inner lives are a dominant force in personality, and they engage with the outside world by using their intuition.
They focus on the "big picture" and things will shape the course of the future. This ability helps make INFPs transformative leaders who are excited about making positive changes in the world.
When taking in information, INFPs create vivid memories of the events. They will often replay these events in their minds to analyze experiences in less stressful settings. Such memories are usually associated with strong emotions, so recalling a memory can often seem like reliving the experience itself.
This cognitive function involves organizing and making sense of the world in an objective and logical manner. While this is a largely unconscious influence in the INFPs personality, it can show itself in times of pressure. When faced with stress, an INFP might become suddenly very pragmatic and detail-oriented, focusing on logic rather than emotion.
Because they are typically ruled more by intuition and emotion, INFPs can sometimes struggle to feel productive and efficient. Learning to develop the extraverted thinking function can help people with this personality type create a better sense of balance.
INFPs typically only have a few close friendships, but these relationships tend to be long-lasting. While people with this type of personality are adept at understanding others emotions, they often struggle to share their own feelings with others.
Social contact can be difficult, although INFPs crave emotional intimacy and deep relationships. Getting to know an INFP can take time and work, but the rewards can be great for those who have the patience and understanding.
INFP parents are usually supportive, caring, and warm. They are good at establishing guidelines and helping children develop strong values.6 Their goal as parents is to help their children grow as individuals and fully appreciate the wonders of the world. They may struggle to share their own emotions with their children and are often focused on creating harmony in the home.
As with friendships, INFPs may struggle to become close to potential romantic partners. Once they do form a relationship, they approach it with a strong sense of loyalty.1 They can sometimes hold overly romanticized views of relationships and may have excessively high expectations that their partners struggle to live up to. They also tend to take comments personally while at the same time struggling to avoid conflicts.
If your partner is an INFP, understand that they may struggle at times to open up, be overly sensitive to perceived criticisms, and often place your own happiness over that of their own.