Myers-Briggs Type Indicator
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)
assessment is a psychometric questionnaire
designed to measure psychological preferences in
how people perceive the world and make decisions.
[1]:1
These preferences were extrapolated from the
typological theories proposed by Carl Gustav Jung
and first published in his 1921 book Psychological
Types (English edition, 1923).[2]
The original developers of the personality inventory
were Katharine Cook Briggs and her daughter,
Isabel Briggs Myers. They began creating the
indicator during World War II, believing that a
knowledge of personality preferences would help
women who were entering the industrial workforce
for the first time to identify the sort of war-time jobs
where they would be "most comfortable and
effective".[1]:xiii The initial questionnaire grew into the
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, which was first
published in 1962. The MBTI focuses on normal
populations and emphasizes the value of naturally
occurring differences.[3]
CPP Inc., the publisher of the MBTI instrument,
calls it "the world's most widely used personality
assessment",[4] with as many as two million
assessments administered annually. The CPP and
other proponents state that the indicator meets or
exceeds the reliability of other psychological
instruments[5][6] and cite reports of individual
behavior.[7] Some studies have found strong support
for construct validity, internal consistency, and test-
retest reliability, although variation was observed.[8][9]
However, some academic psychologists have
criticized the MBTI instrument, claiming that it "lacks
convincing validity data".[10][11][12][13] Some studies
have shown the statistical validity and reliability to
be low.[13][14][15] The use of the Myers-Briggs Type
Indicator as a predictor of job success has not been
supported in studies,[15][16] and its use for this
purpose is expressly discouraged in the Manual.[17]
However, the MBTI continues to be popular
because many people are qualified to administer
the instrument, it is not difficult to understand, and
there are many supporting books, websites and
other useful sources which are readily available to
the general public.[18]
The registered trademark rights to the terms Myers-
Briggs Type Indicator and MBTI have been
assigned from the publisher to the Myers-Briggs
Type Indicator Trust.[19]
Concepts
As the MBTI Manual states, the indicator "is
designed to implement a theory; therefore the
theory must be understood to understand the
MBTI".[17]:1
Fundamental to the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator is
the theory of psychological type as originally
developed by Carl Jung.[1]:xiii Jung proposed the
existence of two dichotomous pairs of cognitive
functions:
 The "rational" (judging) functions: thinking
and feeling
 The "irrational" (perceiving) functions:
sensing and intuition
Jung went on to suggest that these functions are
expressed in either an introverted or extraverted
form.[1]:17 From Jung's original concepts, Briggs and
Myers developed their own theory of psychological
type, described below, on which the MBTI is based.
Type
Jung's typological model regards psychological type
as similar to left or right handedness: individuals are
either born with, or develop, certain preferred ways
of thinking and acting. The MBTI sorts some of
these psychological differences into four opposite
pairs, or dichotomies, with a resulting 16 possible
psychological types. None of these types are better
or worse; however, Briggs and Myers theorized that
individuals naturally prefer one overall combination
of type differences.[1]:9 In the same way that writing
with the left hand is hard work for a right-hander, so
people tend to find using their opposite
psychological preferences more difficult, even if
they can become more proficient (and therefore
behaviorally flexible) with practice and development.
The 16 types are typically referred to by an
abbreviation of four letters—the initial letters of each
of their four type preferences (except in the case of
intuition, which uses the abbreviation N to
distinguish it from Introversion). For instance:
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  ESTJ: extraversion (E), sensing (S), Attitudes: extraversion/introversion (E/I)
thinking (T), judgment (J)
Myers-Briggs literature uses the terms extraversion
 INFP: introversion (I), intuition (N), feeling and introversion as Jung first used them.
(F), perception (P) Extraversion means "outward-turning" and
introversion means "inward-turning".[22] These
And so on for all 16 possible type combinations. specific definitions vary somewhat from the popular
usage of the words. Note that extraversion is the
A related personality type model is the Personality spelling used in MBTI publications.
Assessment System developed by John Gittinger.
Like the MBTI, PAS identifies people's inherited The preferences for extraversion and introversion
tendencies, and it goes on to describe how people are often called attitudes. Briggs and Myers
either accept and foster them, or compensate and recognized that each of the cognitive functions can
modify them as functioning adults. With operate in the external world of behavior, action,
compensation and modification, Gittinger's PAS people, and things (extraverted attitude) or the
gives 512 types. [20] internal world of ideas and reflection ( introverted
attitude). The MBTI assessment sorts for an overall
Four dichotomies preference for one or the other.
Dichotomies
People who prefer extraversion draw energy from
Extraversion (E) – (I) Introversion action: they tend to act, then reflect, then act further.
If they are inactive, their motivation tends to decline.
Sensing (S) – (N) Intuition To rebuild their energy, extraverts need breaks from
time spent in reflection. Conversely, those who
Thinking (T) – (F) Feeling prefer introversion expend energy through action:
they prefer to reflect, then act, then reflect again. To
Judging (J) – (P) Perception rebuild their energy, introverts need quiet time
alone, away from activity.

The four pairs of preferences or dichotomies are The extravert's flow is directed outward toward
shown in the table to the right. people and objects, and the introvert's is directed
inward toward concepts and ideas. Contrasting
Note that the terms used for each dichotomy have characteristics between extraverts and introverts
specific technical meanings relating to the MBTI include the following:
which differ from their everyday usage. For
example, people who prefer judgment over  Extraverts are action oriented, while
perception are not necessarily more judgmental or introverts are thought oriented.
less perceptive. Nor does the MBTI instrument
measure aptitude; it simply indicates for one
 Extraverts seek breadth of knowledge and
preference over another.[17]:3 Someone reporting a
influence, while introverts seek depth of
high score for extraversion over introversion cannot
knowledge and influence.
be correctly described as more extraverted: they
simply have a clear preference.
 Extraverts often prefer more frequent
interaction, while introverts prefer more
Point scores on each of the dichotomies can vary
substantial interaction.
considerably from person to person, even among
those with the same type. However, Isabel Myers
 Extraverts recharge and get their energy
considered the direction of the preference (for
from spending time with people, while
example, E vs. I) to be more important than the
introverts recharge and get their energy
degree of the preference (for example, very clear
from spending time alone.[23]
vs. slight).[21] The expression of a person's
psychological type is more than the sum of the four
individual preferences. The preferences interact Functions: sensing/intuition (S/N) and
through type dynamics and type development. thinking/feeling (T/F)

Jung identified two pairs of psychological functions:

2
  The two perceiving functions, sensing and
intuition
 The two judging functions, thinking and
feeling
According to the Myers-Briggs typology model, each
person uses one of these four functions more
dominantly and proficiently than the other three;
however, all four functions are used at different
times depending on the circumstances.
Sensing and intuition are the information-gathering
(perceiving) functions. They describe how new
information is understood and interpreted.
Individuals who prefer sensing are more likely to
trust information that is in the present, tangible, and
concrete: that is, information that can be understood
by the five senses. They tend to distrust hunches,
which seem to come "out of nowhere".[1]:2 They
prefer to look for details and facts. For them, the
meaning is in the data. On the other hand, those
who prefer intuition tend to trust information that is
more abstract or theoretical, that can be associated
with other information (either remembered or
discovered by seeking a wider context or pattern).
They may be more interested in future possibilities.
For them, the meaning is in the underlying theory
and principles which are manifested in the data.
Thinking and feeling are the decision-making
(judging) functions. The thinking and feeling
functions are both used to make rational decisions,
based on the data received from their information-
gathering functions (sensing or intuition). Those
who prefer thinking tend to decide things from a
more detached standpoint, measuring the decision
by what seems reasonable, logical, causal,
consistent, and matching a given set of rules. Those
who prefer feeling tend to come to decisions by
associating or empathizing with the situation,
looking at it 'from the inside' and weighing the
situation to achieve, on balance, the greatest
harmony, consensus and fit, considering the needs
of the people involved. Thinkers usually have
trouble interacting with people who are inconsistent
or illogical, and tend to give very direct feedback to
others. They are concerned with the truth and view
it as more important than being tactful.
As noted already, people who prefer thinking do not
necessarily, in the everyday sense, "think better"
than their feeling counterparts; the opposite
preference is considered an equally rational way of
coming to decisions (and, in any case, the MBTI
assessment is a measure of preference, not ability).
Similarly, those who prefer feeling do not
necessarily have "better" emotional reactions than
their thinking counterparts.
Dominant function
According to Myers and Briggs, people use all four
cognitive functions. However, one function is
generally used in a more conscious and confident
way. This dominant function is supported by the
secondary (auxiliary) function, and to a lesser
degree the tertiary function. The fourth and least
conscious function is always the opposite of the
dominant function. Myers called this inferior function
the shadow.[1]:84
The four functions operate in conjunction with the
attitudes (extraversion and introversion). Each
function is used in either an extraverted or
introverted way. A person whose dominant function
is extraverted intuition, for example, uses intuition
very differently from someone whose dominant
function is introverted intuition.
Lifestyle: judging/perception (J/P)
Myers and Briggs added another dimension to
Jung's typological model by identifying that people
also have a preference for using either the judging
function (thinking or feeling) or their perceiving
function (sensing or intuition) when relating to the
outside world (extraversion).
Myers and Briggs held that types with a preference
for judging show the world their preferred judging
function (thinking or feeling). So TJ types tend to
appear to the world as logical, and FJ types as
empathetic. According to Myers,[1]:75 judging types
like to "have matters settled".
Those types who prefer perception show the world
their preferred perceiving function (sensing or
intuition). So SP types tend to appear to the world
as concrete and NP types as abstract. According to
Myers,[1]:75 perceptive types prefer to "keep
decisions open".
For extraverts, the J or P indicates their dominant
function; for introverts, the J or P indicates their
auxiliary function. Introverts tend to show their
dominant function outwardly only in matters
"important to their inner worlds".[1]:13 For example:
Because ENTJ types are extroverts, the J indicates
that their dominant function is their preferred judging
function (extraverted thinking). ENTJ types introvert
their auxiliary perceiving function (introverted
3
intuition). The tertiary function is sensing and the
inferior function is introverted feeling.
Because INTJ types are introverts, the J indicates
that their auxiliary function is their preferred judging
function (extraverted thinking). INTJ types introvert
their dominant perceiving function (introverted
intuition). The tertiary function is feeling, and the
inferior function is extraverted sensing.
Historical development
Katharine Cook Briggs began her research into
personality in 1917. Upon meeting her future son-in-
law, she observed marked differences between his
personality and that of other family members. Briggs
embarked on a project of reading biographies, and
she developed a typology based on patterns she
found. She proposed four temperaments: Meditative
(or Thoughtful), Spontaneous, Executive, and
Social.[24][25] Then, after the English translation of
Psychological Types was published in 1923 (having
first been published in German in 1921), she
recognized that Jung's theory was similar to, yet
went far beyond, her own.[1]:22 Briggs's four types
were later identified as corresponding to the Is, EPs,
ETJs and EFJs.[24][25] Her first publications were two
articles describing Jung's theory, in the journal New
Republic in 1926 (Meet Yourself Using the
Personality Paint Box) and 1928 (Up From
Barbarism).
Briggs's daughter, Isabel Briggs Myers, added to
her mother's typological research, which she would
progressively take over entirely. Myers graduated
first in her class from Swarthmore College in
1919[1]:xx and wrote the prize-winning mystery novel
Murder Yet to Come in 1929 using typological ideas.
However, neither Myers nor Briggs were formally
educated in psychology, and thus they lacked
scientific credentials in the field of psychometric
testing.[1]:xiii So Myers apprenticed herself to Edward
N. Hay, who was then personnel manager for a
large Philadelphia bank and went on to start one of
the first successful personnel consulting firms in the
U.S. From Hay, Myers learned test construction,
scoring, validation, and statistics.[1]:xiii, xx In 1942, the
"Briggs-Myers Type Indicator" was created, and the
Briggs Myers Type Indicator Handbook was
published in 1944. The indicator changed its name
to the modern form (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator) in
1956.[26][27]
Myers' work attracted the attention of Henry
Chauncey, head of the Educational Testing Service,
and under these auspices, the first MBTI Manual
was published in 1962. The MBTI received further
support from Donald T. McKinnon, head of the
Institute of Personality Research at the University of
California; Harold Grant, professor at Michigan
State and Auburn Universities; and Mary H.
McCaulley of the University of Florida. The
publication of the MBTI was transferred to
Consulting Psychologists Press in 1975, and the
Center for Applications of Psychological Type
(CAPT) was founded as a research laboratory.[1]:xxi
After Myers' death in May 1980, Mary McCaulley
updated the MBTI Manual, and the second edition
was published in 1985.[21] The third edition appeared
in 1998.
Differences from Jung
Judging vs. perception
The most notable addition of Myers and Briggs to
Jung's original thought is their concept that a given
type's fourth letter (J or P) is determined by how
that type interacts with the external world, rather
than by the type's dominant function. The difference
becomes evident when assessing the cognitive
functions of introverts.[1]:21-22
To Jung, a type with dominant introverted thinking,
for example, would be considered rational (judging)
because the decision-making function is dominant.
To Myers, however, that same type would be
irrational (perceiving) because the individual uses
an information-gathering function (either extraverted
intuition or extraverted sensing) when interacting
with the outer world.
Orientation of the tertiary function
Jung theorized that the dominant function acts
alone in its preferred world: exterior for the
extraverts, and interior for the introverts. The
remaining three functions, he suggested, operate
together in the opposite world. If the dominant
cognitive function is introverted, the other functions
are extraverted, and vice versa. The MBTI Manual
summarizes references in Jung's work to the
balance in psychological type as follows:
There are several references in Jung's writing to the
three remaining functions having an opposite
attitudinal character. For example, in writing about
introverts with thinking dominant...Jung commented
that the counterbalancing functions have an
extraverted character.[21]:29
However, many MBTI practitioners hold that the
tertiary function is oriented in the same direction as
4
the dominant function.[28] Using the INTP type as an
example, the orientation would be as follows:
 Dominant introverted thinking
 Auxiliary extraverted intuition
 Tertiary introverted sensing
 Inferior extraverted feeling
From a theoretical perspective, noted psychologist
H.J. Eysenck calls the MBTI a moderately
successful quantification of Jung's original principles
as outlined in Psychological Types.[29] However, both
models remain theory, with no controlled scientific
studies supporting either Jung's original concept of
type or the Myers-Briggs variation.[30]
Applications
The indicator is frequently used in the areas of
pedagogy, career counseling, team building, group
dynamics, professional development, marketing,
family business, leadership training, executive
coaching, life coaching, personal development,
marriage counseling, and workers' compensation
claims.
Format and administration
The current North American English version of the
MBTI Step I includes 93 forced-choice questions
(there are 88 in the European English version).
Forced-choice means that the individual has to
choose only one of two possible answers to each
question. The choices are a mixture of word pairs
and short statements. Choices are not literal
opposites but chosen to reflect opposite
preferences on the same dichotomy. Participants
may skip questions if they feel they are unable to
choose.
Using psychometric techniques, such as item
response theory, the MBTI will then be scored and
will attempt to identify the preference, and clarity of
preference, in each dichotomy. After taking the
MBTI, participants are usually asked to complete a
Best Fit exercise (see below) and then given a
readout of their Reported Type, which will usually
include a bar graph and number to show how clear
they were about each preference when they
completed the questionnaire.
During the early development of the MBTI
thousands of items were used. Most were
eventually discarded because they did not have
high midpoint discrimination, meaning the results of
that one item did not, on average, move an
individual score away from the midpoint. Using only
items with high midpoint discrimination allows the
MBTI to have fewer items on it but still provide as
much statistical information as other instruments
with many more items with lower midpoint
discrimination. The MBTI requires five points one
way or another to indicate a clear preference.
Additional formats
Isabel Myers had noted that people of any given
type shared differences as well as similarities. At the
time of her death, she was developing a more in-
depth method of measuring how people express
and experience their individual type pattern.
In 1987, an advanced scoring system was
developed for the MBTI. From this was developed
the Type Differentiation Indicator (TDI)
(Saunders, 1989) which is a scoring system for the
longer MBTI, Form J,[31] which includes the 290
items written by Myers that had survived her
previous item analyses. It yields 20 subscales (five
under each of the four dichotomous preference
scales), plus seven additional subscales for a new
Comfort-Discomfort factor (which purportedly
corresponds to the missing factor of Neuroticism).
This factor's scales indicate a sense of overall
comfort and confidence versus discomfort and
anxiety. They also load onto one of the four type
dimensions[32]: guarded-optimistic (also T/F),
defiant-compliant (also T/F), carefree-worried (also
T/F), decisive-ambivalent (also J/P), intrepid-
inhibited (Also E/I), leader-follower (Also E/I), and
proactive-distractible (also J/P)
Also included is a composite of these called "strain."
There are also scales for type-scale consistency
and comfort-scale consistency. Reliability of 23 of
the 27 TDI subscales is greater than 0.50, "an
acceptable result given the brevity of the subscales"
(Saunders, 1989).
In 1989, a scoring system was developed for only
the 20 subscales for the original four dichotomies.
This was initially known as Form K, or the
Expanded Analysis Report (EAR).This tool is
now called the MBTI Step II.
Form J or the TDI included the items (derived from
Myers’ and McCaulley’s earlier work) necessary to
score what became known as Step III.[33] (The 1998
MBTI Manual reported that the two instruments
were one and the same[34]) It was developed in a
5
joint project involving the following organizations:
CPP, the publisher of the whole family of MBTI
works; CAPT (Center for Applications of
Psychological Type), which holds all of Myers' and
McCaulley's original work; and the MBTI Trust,
headed by Katharine and Peter Myers. Step III was
advertised as addressing type development and the
use of perception and judgment by respondents.[35]
Precepts and ethics
The following precepts are generally used in the
ethical administration of the Myers-Briggs Type
Indicator:
Type not trait
The MBTI sorts for type; it does not
indicate the strength of ability. The
questionnaire allows the clarity of a
preference to be ascertained (Bill clearly
prefers introversion), but not the strength
of preference (Jane strongly prefers
extraversion) or degree of aptitude (Harry
is good at thinking). In this sense, it differs
from trait-based tools such as 16PF. Type
preferences are polar opposites: a precept
of MBTI is that people fundamentally prefer
one thing over the other, not a bit of both.
Own best judge
Individuals are considered the best judge
of their own type. While the MBTI
questionnaire provides a Reported Type,
this is considered only an indication of their
probable overall Type. A Best Fit Process
is usually used to allow respondents to
develop their understanding of the four
dichotomies, to form their own hypothesis
as to their overall Type, and to compare
this against the Reported Type. In more
than 20% of cases, the hypothesis and the
Reported Type differ in one or more
dichotomies. Using the clarity of each
preference, any potential for bias in the
report, and often, a comparison of two or
more whole Types may then help
respondents determine their own Best Fit.
No right or wrong
No preference or total type is considered
better or worse than another. They are all
Gifts Differing, as emphasized by the title
of Isabel Briggs Myers' book on this
subject.
Voluntary
It is considered unethical to compel
anyone to take the Myers-Briggs Type
Indicator. It should always be taken
voluntarily.[36]
Confidentiality
The result of the MBTI Reported and Best
Fit type are confidential between the
individual and administrator and, ethically,
not for disclosure without permission.
Not for selection
The results of the assessment should not
be used to "label, evaluate, or limit the
respondent in any way" (emphasis
original).[36] Since all types are valuable,
and the MBTI measures preferences rather
than aptitude, the MBTI is not considered a
proper instrument for purposes of
employment selection. Many professions
contain highly competent individuals of
different types with complementary
preferences.
Importance of proper feedback
Individuals should always be given detailed
feedback from a trained administrator and
an opportunity to undertake a Best Fit
exercise to check against their Reported
Type. This feedback can be given in
person or, where this is not practical, by
telephone or electronically.
Type dynamics and development
The Sixteen Types
US Population Breakdown
The table organizing the sixteen types was
created by Isabel Myers (an INFP).
ISTJ ISFJ INFJ INTJ
11–14% 9–14% 1–3% 2–4%
6
 ISTP ISFP INFP INTP
4–6% 5–9% 4–5% 1–3%
ESTP ESFP ENFP ENTP
4–5% 4–9% 6–8% 2–5%
ESTJ ESFJ ENFJ ENTJ
8–12% 9–13% 2–5% 2–5%
Estimated percentages of the 16 types in the
U.S. population.[37]
The interaction of two, three, or four preferences is
known as type dynamics. Although type dynamics
has garnered little or no empirical support to
substantiate its viability as a scientific theory,[38]
Myers and Briggs asserted that for each of the 16
four-preference types, one function is the most
dominant and is likely to be evident earliest in life. A
secondary or auxiliary function typically becomes
more evident (differentiated) during teenage years
and provides balance to the dominant. In normal
development, individuals tend to become more
fluent with a third, tertiary function during mid life,
while the fourth, inferior function remains least
consciously developed. The inferior function is often
considered to be more associated with the
unconscious, being most evident in situations such
as high stress (sometimes referred to as being in
the grip of the inferior function).
However the use of type dynamics is disputed: in
the conclusion of various studies on the subject of
type dynamics, James H. Reynierse writes that
"Type dynamics has persistent logical problems and
is fundamentally based on a series of category
mistakes; it provides, at best, a limited and
incomplete account of type related phenomena;"
and that "type dynamics relies on anecdotal
evidence, fails most efficacy tests, and does not fit
the empirical facts;". His studies gave the clear
result, that the descriptions and workings of type
dynamics don't fit the real behavior of people. He
suggests getting completely rid of type dynamics,
because it doesn't help, but hinder understanding of
personality. The presumed order of functions 1 to 4
did only occur in one out of 540 test results.[39]
The sequence of differentiation of dominant,
auxiliary, and tertiary functions through life is termed
type development. Note that this is an idealized
sequence that may be disrupted by major life
events.
The dynamic sequence of functions and their
attitudes can be determined in the following way:
 The overall lifestyle preference (J-P)
determines whether the judging (T-F) or
perceiving (S-N) preference is most
evident in the outside world; i.e., which
function has an extraverted attitude
 The attitude preference (E-I) determines
whether the extraverted function is
dominant or auxiliary
 For those with an overall preference for
extraversion, the function with the
extraverted attitude will be the dominant
function. For example, for an ESTJ type
the dominant function is the judging
function, thinking, and this is experienced
with an extraverted attitude. This is notated
as a dominant Te. For an ESTP, the
dominant function is the perceiving
function, sensing, notated as a dominant
Se.
 The Auxiliary function for extraverts is the
secondary preference of the judging or
perceiving functions, and it is experienced
with an introverted attitude: for example,
the auxiliary function for ESTJ is
introverted sensing (Si) and the auxiliary
for ESTP is introverted thinking (Ti).
 For those with an overall preference for
introversion, the function with the
extraverted attitude is the auxiliary; the
dominant is the other function in the main
four letter preference. So the dominant
function for ISTJ is introverted sensing (Si)
with the auxiliary (supporting) function
being extraverted thinking (Te).
 The Tertiary function is the opposite
preference from the Auxiliary. For example,
if the Auxiliary is thinking then the Tertiary
would be feeling. The attitude of the
Tertiary is the subject of some debate and
therefore is not normally indicated; i.e. if
the Auxiliary was Te then the Tertiary would
be F (not Fe or Fi)
 The Inferior function is the opposite
preference and attitude from the Dominant,
so for an ESTJ with dominant Te the
Inferior would be Fi.
Note that for extraverts, the dominant function is the
one most evident in the external world. For
introverts, however, it is the auxiliary function that is
7
most evident externally, as their dominant function  Dominant function is therefore introverted
relates to the interior world. feeling (Fi)

Some examples of whole types may clarify this  Auxiliary function is extraverted intuition
further. Taking the ESTJ example above: (Ne)

 Extraverted function is a judging function  Tertiary function is the opposite of the

(T-F) because of the overall J preference Auxiliary: sensing (S)

 Extraverted function is dominant because  Inferior function is the opposite of the

of overall E preference Dominant: extraverted thinking (Te)

 Dominant function is therefore extraverted
thinking (Te)
 Auxiliary function is the preferred
perceiving function: introverted sensing
(Si)
 Tertiary function is the opposite of the
Auxiliary: intuition (N)
 Inferior function is the opposite of the
Dominant: introverted feeling (Fi)
The dynamics of the ESTJ are found in the primary
combination of extraverted thinking as their
dominant function and introverted sensing as their
auxiliary function: the dominant tendency of ESTJs
to order their environment, to set clear boundaries,
to clarify roles and timetables, and to direct the
activities around them is supported by their facility
for using past experience in an ordered and
systematic way to help organize themselves and
others. For instance, ESTJs may enjoy planning
trips for groups of people to achieve some goal or to
perform some culturally uplifting function. Because
of their ease in directing others and their facility in
managing their own time, they engage all the
resources at their disposal to achieve their goals.
However, under prolonged stress or sudden trauma,
ESTJs may overuse their extraverted thinking
function and fall into the grip of their inferior
function, introverted feeling. Although the ESTJ can
seem insensitive to the feelings of others in their
normal activities, under tremendous stress, they can
suddenly express feelings of being unappreciated or
wounded by insensitivity.
The dynamics of the INFP rest on the fundamental
correspondence of introverted feeling and
extraverted intuition. The dominant tendency of the
INFP is toward building a rich internal framework of
values and toward championing human rights. They
often devote themselves behind the scenes to
causes such as civil rights or saving the
environment. Since they tend to avoid the limelight,
postpone decisions, and maintain a reserved
posture, they are rarely found in executive-director
type positions of the organizations that serve those
causes. Normally, the INFP dislikes being "in
charge" of things. When not under stress, the INFP
radiates a pleasant and sympathetic demeanor; but
under extreme stress, they can suddenly become
rigid and directive, exerting their extraverted
thinking erratically.
Every type, and its opposite, is the expression of
these interactions, which give each type its unique,
recognizable signature.
Correlations to other instruments
Keirsey temperaments
David W. Keirsey mapped four 'temperaments' to
the existing Myers-Briggs system groupings SP, SJ,
NF and NT; this often results in confusion of the two
theories. However, the Keirsey Temperament Sorter
is not directly associated with the official Myers-
Briggs Type Indicator.
IS IT EJ IS IF EJ IN IF EJ IN IT EJ
Inspector Protector Counselor Mastermind

Looking at the diametrically opposite four-letter IS ET IP IS EF IP IN EF IP IN ET IP

type, INFP:
Crafter Composer Healer Architect
 Extraverted function is a perceiving
function (S-N) because of the P preference ES ET IP ES EF IP EN EF IP EN ET IP

Promoter Performer Champion Inventor

 Introverted function is dominant because of
the I preference
8
ES IT EJ ES IF EJ EN IF EJ EN IT EJ Origins of the theory

Supervisor Provider Teacher Fieldmarshal Jung's theory of psychological type, as published in

Big Five
McCrae and Costa[11] [40] present correlations
between the MBTI scales and the Big Five
personality construct, which is a conglomeration of
characteristics found in nearly all personality and
psychological tests. The five personality
characteristics are extraversion, openness,
agreeableness, conscientiousness, and emotional
stability (or neuroticism). The following study is
based on the results from 267 men followed as part
of a longitudinal study of aging. (Similar results were
obtained with 201 women.)
Extraversi Agreeablen Conscienti Neuroticis
on
Openness
ess ousness m
E-I −0.74 0.03 −0.03 0.08 0.16
S-N 0.10 0.72 0.04 −0.15 −0.06
T-F 0.19 0.02 0.44 −0.15 0.06
J-P 0.15 0.30 −0.06 −0.49 0.11
The closer the number is to 1.0 or −1.0, the higher
the degree of correlation.
These data suggest that four of the MBTI scales are
related to the Big Five personality traits. These
correlations show that E-I and S-N are strongly
related to extraversion and openness respectively,
while T-F and J-P are moderately related to
agreeableness and conscientiousness respectively.
The emotional stability dimension of the Big Five is
largely absent from the original MBTI (though the
TDI, discussed above, has addressed that
dimension).
These findings led McCrae and Costa, the
formulators of the Five Factor Model (a Big Five
theory),[41] to conclude, "correlational analyses
showed that the four MBTI indices did measure
aspects of four of the five major dimensions of
normal personality. The five-factor model provides
an alternative basis for interpreting MBTI findings
within a broader, more commonly shared
conceptual framework." However, "there was no
support for the view that the MBTI measures truly
dichotomous preferences or qualitatively distinct
types, instead, the instrument measures four
relatively independent dimensions."
his 1921 book, was not tested through controlled
scientific studies.[30] Jung's methods primarily
included clinical observation, introspection and
anecdote—methods that are largely regarded as
inconclusive by the modern field of psychology.[30]
Jung's type theory introduced a sequence of four
cognitive functions (thinking, feeling, sensing, and
intuition), each having one of two orientations
(extraverted or introverted), for a total of eight
functions. The Myers-Briggs theory is based on
these eight functions, although with some
differences in expression (see Differences from
Jung above). However, neither the Myers-Briggs nor
the Jungian models offer any scientific,
experimental proof to support the existence, the
sequence, the orientation, or the manifestation of
these functions.[30]
Validity
The statistical validity of the MBTI as a
psychometric instrument has been the subject of
criticism. It has been estimated that between a third
and a half of the published material on the MBTI
has been produced for conferences of the Center
for the Application of Psychological Type (which
provides training in the MBTI) or as papers in the
Journal of Psychological Type (which is edited by
Myers-Briggs advocates).[42] It has been argued that
this reflects a lack of critical scrutiny.[15][42]
For example, some researchers expected that
scores would show a bimodal distribution with
peaks near the ends of the scales, but found that
scores on the individual subscales were actually
distributed in a centrally peaked manner similar to a
normal distribution. A cut-off exists at the center of
the subscale such that a score on one side is
classified as one type, and a score on the other side
as the opposite type. This fails to support the
concept of type: the norm is for people to lie near
the middle of the subscale.[11][12][13][15][43] "Although we
do not conclude that the absence of bimodality
necessarily proves that the MBTI developers’
theory-based assumption of categorical “types” of
personality is invalid, the absence of empirical
bimodality in IRT-based MBTI scores does indeed
remove a potentially powerful line of evidence that
was previously available to “type” advocates to cite
in defense of their position." [43]
In 1991, the National Academy of Sciences
committee reviewed data from MBTI research
9
studies and concluded that only the I-E scale has
high correlations with comparable scales of other
instruments and low correlations with instruments
designed to assess different concepts, showing
strong validity. In contrast, the S-N and T-F scales
show relatively weak validity. The 1991 review
committee concluded at the time there was "not
sufficient, well-designed research to justify the use
of the MBTI in career counseling programs". [16]
However, this study also based its measurement of
validity on "criterion-related validity (i.e., does the
MBTI predict specific outcomes related to
interpersonal relations or career success/job
performance?)."[16] The ethical guidelines of the
MBTI assessment stress that the MBTI type "does
not imply excellence, competence, or natural ability,
only what is preferred."[36] The 2009 MBTI Form M
Manual Supplement states, "An instrument is said
to be valid when it measures what it has been
designed to measure (Ghiselli, Campbell, & Zedeck,
1981; Murphy & Davidshofer, 2005)."[5] Studies have
found that the MBTI scores compare favorably to
other assessments with respect to evidence of
convergent validity, divergent validity, construct
validity, internal consistency, and test-retest
reliability.[5][8][9]
The accuracy of the MBTI depends on honest self-
reporting by the person tested.[17]:52-53 Unlike some
personality measures, such as the Minnesota
Multiphasic Personality Inventory or the Personality
Assessment Inventory, the MBTI does not use
validity scales to assess exaggerated or socially
desirable responses.[44] As a result, individuals
motivated to do so can fake their responses, [45] and
one study found that the MBTI judgment/perception
dimension correlates with the Eysenck Personality
Questionnaire lie scale.[46] If respondents "fear they
have something to lose, they may answer as they
assume they should."[17]:53 However, the MBTI
ethical guidelines state, "It is unethical and in many
cases illegal to require job applicants to take the
Indicator if the results will be used to screen out
applicants."[36] The intent of the MBTI is to provide "a
framework for understanding individual differences,
and … a dynamic model of individual development".
[47]
The terminology of the MBTI has been criticized as
being very "vague and general"[48] as to allow any
kind of behavior to fit any personality type, which
may result in the Forer effect, where individuals give
a high rating to a positive description that
supposedly applies specifically to them.[15][30] Others
argue that while the MBTI type descriptions are
brief, they are also distinctive and precise. [49]:14-15
Some theorists, such as David Keirsey, have
expanded on the MBTI descriptions, providing even
greater detail. For instance, Keirsey's descriptions
of his four temperaments, which he correlated with
the sixteen MBTI personality types, show how the
temperaments differ in terms of language use,
intellectual orientation, educational and vocational
interests, social orientation, self image, personal
values, social roles, and characteristic hand
gestures.[49]:32-207
With regard to factor analysis, one study of 1291
college-aged students found six different factors
instead of the four used in the MBTI.[50] In other
studies, researchers found that the JP and the SN
scales correlate with one another.[11]
Reliability
Some researchers have interpreted the reliability of
the test as being low. Studies have found that
between 39% and 76% of those tested fall into
different types upon retesting some weeks or years
later.[13][15]
One study reports that the MBTI dichotomies exhibit
good split-half reliability; however, the dichotomy
scores are distributed in a bell curve, and the overall
type allocations are less reliable. Also, test-retest
reliability is sensitive to the time between tests.
Within each dichotomy scale, as measured on Form
G, about 83% of categorizations remain the same
when individuals are retested within nine months,
and around 75% when individuals are retested after
nine months. About 50% of people tested within
nine months remain the same overall type, and 36%
remain the same type after more than nine months.
[51]
For Form M (the most current form of the MBTI
instrument), the MBTI Manual reports that these
scores are higher (p. 163, Table 8.6).
In one study, when people were asked to compare
their preferred type to that assigned by the MBTI
assessment, only half of people picked the same
profile.[52] Critics also argue that the MBTI lacks
falsifiability, which can cause confirmation bias in
the interpretation of results.
Utility
In her research, Isabel Myers found that the
proportion of different personality types varied by
choice of career or course of study.[1]:40-51[21]
However, some researchers examining the
proportions of each type within varying professions
report that the proportion of MBTI types within each
occupation is close to that within a random sample
of the population.[15] Some researchers have
expressed reservations about the relevance of type
10
to job satisfaction, as well as concerns about the
potential misuse of the instrument in labeling
individuals.[15][53]
1. ISTJ
ISTJs are responsible organizers, driven to create and
enforce order within systems and institutions. They are
neat and orderly, inside and out, and tend to have a
procedure for everything they do. Reliable and dutiful,
ISTJs want to uphold tradition and follow regulations.
Although they are Introverted, ISTJs are rarely isolated;
typical ISTJs know just where they belong in life, and
want to understand how they can participate in
established organizations and systems. They are
concerned with upholding the social order and making
sure that standards are met.
ISTJs like to know what the rules of the game are,
valuing predictability more than imagination. They rely on
their past experience to guide them, and are most
comfortable in familiar surroundings. ISTJs trust the
proven method, and appreciate the value of dedicated
practice to build confidence in their skills.
ISTJs tend to be hardworking and will persist until a task
is done. They are logical and methodical, and often enjoy
tasks that require them to use step-by-step reasoning to
solve a problem. They are meticulous in their attention to
details, and examine things closely to be sure they are
correct. With their straightforward logic and orientation to
detail, ISTJs work systematically to bring order to their
own small parts of the world.
ISTJ in the Population
ISTJ is the third most common type in the population and
the most common type among men. ISTJs make up:
 12% of the general population
 16% of men
 7% of women
Popular Hobbies
Popular hobbies for the ISTJ include concentration
games like chess and Trivial Pursuit, playing computer
games, watching sporting events, pursuing physical
fitness, and playing solitary sports such as golf.
Studies suggest that the MBTI is not a useful
predictor of job performance.[54] As noted above
under Precepts and ethics, the MBTI measures
preference, not ability. The use of the MBTI as a
predictor of job success is expressly discouraged in
the Manual.[17]:78 It is not designed for this purpose.
Famous ISTJs
Famous ISTJs include Queen Elizabeth II, Harry Truman,
Warren Buffett, George Washington, Queen Victoria,
George H.W. Bush, and J.D. Rockefeller.
Research on ISTJ
Interesting facts about the ISTJ:
 On personality trait measures, score as Calm,
Stable, Steady, Cautious, and Conventional
 More likely than other types to experience
cardiac problems and hypertension
 More likely than other types to experience
chronic pain
 Among four highest types in college GPA
 More frequent among African Americans
 Personal values include Financial Security
 Most likely of all types to enjoy a work
environment where “everything is done by the
book”
 Overrepresented among bank officers, financial
managers, MBA students, and small business
owners
 Often found in careers in management,
administration, law enforcement, and
accounting
ISTJ at Work
At work, ISTJs are dependable and meticulous. ISTJs
take deadlines and specifications very seriously, and
work independently and systematically to complete the
tasks they are given. ISTJs value a stable work
environment with clear expectations and few surprises.
They are at their best when they can create detailed
plans of action and follow them with little deviation.
11
Although ISTJs may like to do quite a bit of their work
independently, they often appreciate the value of
participating on a team as well, especially if their
colleagues are reasonable and businesslike and there is
a clear hierarchy so that they know who is in charge.
An ideal job for an ISTJ allows them to solve logical
problems in an orderly way. An ideal work environment
for an ISTJ is quiet, organized, and structured, with rules
and regulations that are well established and clearly
adhered to by all.
Popular Careers for ISTJs
Top careers for the ISTJ include:
 Auditor
 Actuary
 Budget Analyst
 Accountant
 Chief Information Officer
 Airplane Pilot
 Computer Programmer
 Database Administrator
 Electrician
 Environmental Engineer
 Technical Instructor
 School Administrator
 Criminalist
 Police Officer
 Dentist
ISTJ Communication Style
ISTJs communicate in a direct and straightforward way.
They are specific and oriented to details, and often
communicate primarily to move a task along. The ISTJ
typically has a great memory for detail and has a vast
storehouse of practical, factual information. Most ISTJs
don’t talk for the sake of talking, but will share their
knowledge when they see a practical need for it. ISTJs
are often no-nonsense and action-oriented in their
communication; they tell what they know and what needs
to be done.
ISTJs as Partners
In relationships, the ISTJ is loyal and reliable. ISTJs have
a strong respect for tradition and often assume typical
gender roles in their relationships, with male ISTJs taking
on the role of provider and female ISTJs caring for home
and family. ISTJs value stability, and tend to appreciate
relationships that they can count on over the long term.
They keep their promises and expect others to do the
same.
ISTJs are resoundingly logical and can be stubborn once
they've decided on the best course of action. They
usually like things done their way. Often the "proper"
course of action is self-evident to the ISTJ, who may
have little patience with unconventional approaches.
ISTJs tend to work hard to ensure that their families are
provided for and that they are living up to their own
expectations of what a good partner should be. They are
typically most satisfed with a partner who can recognize
and appreciate the hard work they put in to contribute to
the household.
ISTJs as Parents
As parents, ISTJs are firm in their expectations and
consistent in enforcing rules. They rarely dote on their
children, but provide stability, structure, and the practical
necessities of life. They may be strict and often
emphasize traditional values like responsibility, loyalty,
and obedience.
ISTJ parents want to pass on traditions and teach their
children how to fit into society. They expect their children
to be as dutiful as they are, and concern themselves with
teaching their children to work hard, respect authority,
and care for their material possessions.
ISTJ Type Dynamics
The core of the ISTJ personality type is Introverted
Sensing. This dominant function guides the way ISTJs
gather and organize information in their own minds.
Using Introverted Sensing, ISTJs collect a storehouse of
detailed information based on their practical experience,
creating a body of data they can use to guide their
decisions and make sense of their perceptions in the
present.
The auxiliary function for ISTJs is Extraverted Thinking.
This mental function supports their dominant Introverted
Sensing to help them evaluate information and structure
the world around them. When using Extraverted
Thinking, the ISTJ seeks to order their environment to
12
bring logic to systems and processes. They analyze the
options objectively and communicate ideas clearly.
The tertiary Feeling function is less developed for most
ISTJs, especially early in life. When this function is not
well developed, ISTJs may have trouble tuning into
values and considering the impact of decisions on
people.
The inferior function for ISTJs, or that function which is
least likely to be conscious and well developed, is
Extraverted Intuition. When this function is not
developed, the ISTJ finds it a challenge to see
possibilities and make connections in the world around
them.
ISTJs Under Stress
ISTJs want to rely on their own knowledge bank of
factual data, and can become stressed when this
2. ISTP
ISTPs are observant artisans with an understanding of
mechanics and an interest in troubleshooting. They
approach their environments with a flexible logic, looking
for practical solutions to the problems at hand. They are
independent and adaptable, and typically interact with
the world around them in a self-directed, spontaneous
manner.
ISTPs are curious about the mechanics of the world
around them and typically have a unique ability to
manipulate the tools in their environments. They tend to
study how things work and often achieve mastery in the
use and operation of machines, instruments, and
equipment. They seek understanding, but in a practical
sense: they like to be able to put their technical
knowledge to immediate use and are quickly bored by
theory.
ISTPs are observant of details and responsive to the
demands of the world around them. Because of their
keen sense of their environment, ISTPs are good at
responding to emergencies. They typically seek
environments with plenty of action and are often thrill-
seekers.
ISTPs tend to be detached and prefer the logic of
mechanical things to the complexity of human emotions.
Independent and reserved, ISTPs prefer to have plenty
of personal space, and like to be free to be spontaneous
and follow their own lead.
ISTP in the Population
The ISTP personality type is much more common among
men than women. Among men, it is the third most
tendency is thwarted. They may become stressed in
environments where they have no firsthand experience to
rely on, or in situations where the factual data is being
ignored or denied by other people. Because ISTJs are so
responsible, they are also susceptible to taking on too
much and becoming overworked, which can bring on a
stress response.
A stress reaction often manifests as worry and negativity
about the future in ISTJs. Because their inferior function
is Intuition, they have trouble imagining the possibilities,
and under stress may turn this into a tendency to imagine
the worst. In extreme situations, stressed ISTJs may
become obsessively pessimistic, imagining a multitude of
catastrophes following from present actions. ISTJs are
more comfortable with logic than with emotion, and so
are especially prone to worry about relationships. Under
stress they may fret about their connections with loved
ones and invent circumstances that threaten to tear them
apart.
common type in the population. Among women, it is the
fourth rarest. ISTPs make up:
 5% of the general population
 9% of men
 2% of women
Popular Hobbies
Popular hobbies for an ISTP include magic and comedy,
archery, weaponry, hunting, scuba diving, rappelling,
aviation, skydiving, motorcycles, and other extreme
sports. They are often drawn to risky or thrilling activities
and those that allow them to work with something
mechanical.
Famous ISTPs
Famous ISTPs include Lance Armstrong, Bruce Lee,
Michael Jordan, Chuck Yaeger, Katherine Hepburn,
Rowan Atkinson, Clint Eastwood, and Amelia Earhart.
Research on ISTP
Interesting facts about the ISTP:
 On personality trait measures, score as Critical,
Detached, Guarded, Independent, and
Resourceful
 Commonly found in populations of male college
scholarship athletes
13
  More likely than other types to suffer cardiac
problems
 Lowest ranked of all types in using social
coping resources
 One of four types least satisfied with their
marriage or intimate relationship
 Among types least likely to complete college
 Personal values include Autonomy; at work,
value Stability, Security, Independence, and
Achievement
 Commonly found in skilled trades, technical
fields, agriculture, law enforcement, and
military occupations
ISTP at Work
At work, the ISTP is motivated by a desire to achieve and
utilize technical expertise. ISTPs enjoy mastering and
manipulating the tools of their trade, whatever they may
be: the traditional hammers and saws, or the more
modern tools of business or technology.
ISTPs prefer tasks with a tangible result, and typically
feel most satisfied when they have built something
concrete. They enjoy troubleshooting and often look for
occupations that allow them to apply their skills to solve
practical problems.
Many ISTPs enjoy occupations that involve physical
activity, often with an aspect of risk or danger, and dislike
being stuck at a desk. They are most often energized by
action, and want to jump in to get things done rather than
spend much time planning or theorizing.
ISTPs value efficiency and logic, and want flexibility in
their work. They prefer a job where they can be practical
and action-oriented without being overly burdened by
rules, procedure, or bureaucracy.
Popular Careers for the ISTP
Top careers for the ISTP include:
Carpenter; Surveyor; Mechanic; Commercial Designer;
Landscape Architect; Securities Analyst; Purchasing
Agent; Financial Manager; Software Developer; Systems
AnalystBiologist; Geologist; Police Officer; Firefighter;
Private Investigator
ISTP Communication Style
ISTPs are often reserved communicators, preferring
action to conversation. They like to do what needs to be
done and may grow impatient with discussion that does
not turn quickly to action. They are often observant,
picking up on details of the current situation, and
evaluate information in a detached and logical way.
Typically flexible and tolerant, the ISTP is ready to adapt
to the situation at hand, but can be bluntly critical if they
see inefficiency or incompetence.
ISTPs as Partners
In relationships, the ISTP is independent and calm. They
are often handy around the house, and enjoy being
useful to their partners as quick and able problem-
solvers.
ISTPs are fun-loving and adventurous, and will often
encourage their partners to learn new and exciting
physical skills. They are good at responding to their
partners’ immediate physical needs, but may be less
adept at dealing with emotions. ISTPs are natural
troubleshooters, but look for logical, practical solutions to
problems; more complex personal issues may leave
them stumped.
Often private, the ISTP tends to keep their feelings and
reactions to themselves. For the ISTP, this is not about
withholding: they simply prefer to move on to the next
activity rather than dwell on their emotional experience.
ISTPs understand the temporary nature of their
emotions, and rarely find them an interesting topic of
conversation.
ISTPs are unlikely to offer flowery speeches or romantic
overtures, and are more likely to show affection by being
of practical service to their partners. They want their
partners to appreciate their skills in getting things done,
and to allow them plenty of freedom to do their own thing.
ISTPs as Parents
As parents, ISTPs often connect with their children
through their mechanical and physical skills, first by
teaching their children, and then by enjoying an activity
together. ISTPs are rarely demonstrative or particularly
verbal, and may show their love to their families by
crafting or building something for them rather than being
outwardly affectionate. ISTPs are generous and helpful
but sometimes unreliable, and may become distracted
from family responsibilities when adventure is at hand.
ISTP Type Dynamics
The core of the ISTP personality type is Introverted
Thinking. This dominant function guides the way ISTPs
make sense of things in their own internal mental
process. Using Introverted Thinking, ISTPs seek
systematic and logical thinking. They organize factual
information to create rational understanding within their
own minds.
The auxiliary function for ISTPs is Extraverted Sensing.
This mental function supports their dominant Introverted
Thinking to help them take in information about the world
around them. Using Extraverted Sensing, ISTPs notice
14
facts and details in the world around them. They tune into
sensory experiences and observe the logic of their
environment.
The tertiary Intuition function is less developed for most
ISTPs, especially early in life. When this function is not
well developed, the ISTP may have trouble seeing
patterns, connections, and the larger implications of the
information in front of them.
The inferior function for ISTPs, or that function which is
least likely to be conscious and well developed, is
Extraverted Feeling. When this function is not developed,
ISTPs can have trouble understanding the emotional
experience of other people and taking their needs into
account.
ISTP Under Stress
ISTPs may become stressed in situations where they do
not get adequate personal space. When they are not
allowed time to process apart from others, ISTPs can
have difficulty coping. This is especially true when they
are forced to engage with other people who are highly
emotional. ISTPs dislike dealing with strong emotions
3. ESTP
ESTPs are energetic thrillseekers who are at their best
when putting out fires, whether literal or metaphorical.
They assess situations quickly and move adeptly to
respond to immediate problems with practical solutions.
ESTPs are excellent in emergencies, when they can
apply their logical reasoning to situations where
immediate action is necessary. Long-term goals are less
interesting to the ESTP, who prefers to see tangible
results in the moment.
ESTPs are often natural athletes; they easily navigate
their physical environment and are typically highly
coordinated. For the ESTP, their surroundings are a
source of excitement and adventure, and they often put
their physical skills to the test in risky or even dangerous
activities.
Energetic and playful, ESTPs are often the life of the
party and have a good sense of humor. They use their
keen powers of observation to assess their audience and
adapt quickly to keep interactions exciting. Although they
typically appear very social, they can sometimes be
cavalier about emotions, preferring to keep things fast-
paced and silly rather than sensitive or serious.
ESTP in the Population
ESTPs make up:
 4% of the general population
and tend to feel out of their depth in such interactions.
ISTPs often chafe in highly structured environments;
feeling a lack of flexibility or limitations on their options,
ISTPs may react with a stress response.
A stress response in ISTPs often manifests as an
uncharacteristic inability to focus and analyze. ISTPs
may lose sight of their goals and become confused. Their
usual grip on logic turns unpredictable, and they may
insist on conclusions which are unfounded. Because the
ISTP’s inferior function is Feeling, they will often find
themselves increasingly sensitive to others’ behavior
when under stress. They often feel rejected and unloved,
and exaggerate the importance of small slights. They
often experience emotional states which are unfamiliar to
them, and may express their feelings in unpredictable
outbursts.
 6% of men
 3% of women
Popular Hobbies
Popular hobbies for an ESTP include all sorts of sports
and athletic pursuits, especially team sports and risky or
adventurous activities like race car driving, boxing, or
flying.
Famous ESTPs
Famous ESTPs include Donald Trump, George W. Bush,
Winston Churchill, Mae West, Eddie Murphy, Bruce
Willis, Madonna, and Evel Knievel.
Research on ESTP
Interesting facts about the ESTP:
 On personality trait measures, score as
Dominant, Flexible, Demanding, and Sociable
 More frequent among patients suffering from
chronic pain
 One of four types reporting highest levels of
assertiveness in college
15
  One of two types with lowest college GPA
 Among most likely of all types to stay in college
 Values at work include autonomy, variety,
independence, and structure
 Overrepresented among MBA students
 Commonly found in careers in marketing,
skilled trades, business, and law enforcement
ESTP at Work
At work, the ESTP is motivated to solve logical problems
in the moment. ESTPs have a solid grasp of the concrete
realities of a situation and a good sense of the resources
at their disposal. Because they understand the facts of
the present, they are often able to quickly see a way out
of difficult situations.
The ESTP relies on past experience to choose the best
approach for the situation at hand. ESTPs are concrete
and hands-on, and have a kinetic sense of how things
work. Although ESTPs may have trouble envisioning
abstract ideas, they are flexible in their approach: if
something sounds logical, they are usually willing to give
it a try.
ESTPs often choose careers that take advantage of their
athleticism, their mechanical skills, or their ability to
negotiate their physical surroundings. They tend to prefer
objects to ideas and often like a tangible product. They
may have trouble sitting still and often avoid being stuck
behind a desk.
ESTPs like a job that is a bit unpredictable, and offers
them some fun and adventure throughout the workday.
They want a job which allows them plenty of flexibility to
solve problems on the spot, without pressure to follow set
procedures or plans.
Popular Careers for the ESTP
Top careers for the ESTP include:
General Contractor Real Estate Broker Military Officer
Building Inspector Sales Engineer Police Officer
Surveyor Stockbroker Firefighter
Mechanic Sales Manager Athletic Trainer
Forester Property Manager Airline Pilot
ESTP Communication Style
ESTPs tend to be persuasive, energetic communicators.
They quickly observe the realities of the present situation
and engage others to take action on practical problems.
Many ESTPs speak very freely, and can be blunt and
impatient in getting their message across. They may not
want to wait for someone else to buy in before they can
act. The ESTP may come off as charming, and many
ESTPs are masters at negotiating with others so that
they can achieve their goals in the most efficient way
possible.
ESTPs as Partners
In relationships, the ESTP is fun-loving and pragmatic.
Hedonistic and flirtatious, ESTP partners tend to keep
things exciting. They are often pursuing adventure and
like a playmate who will come along for the ride.
ESTPs tend to have little patience for serious discussions
or emotional exploration, preferring to keep things fun
and action-packed. They tend to be attentive to their
partners’ physical needs, but may neglect the deeper
emotional connections. Serious discussions about
feelings rarely hold much appeal for the thrillseeking
ESTP.
ESTPs are enthusiastic and reasonable problem-solvers.
However, their orientation toward quick thinking may lead
them to try to apply a solution before they fully
understand the issues involved in a conflict, especially
when complex and difficult emotions are involved.
ESTPs want a partner that will appreciate their
practicality and willingness to get their hands dirty, and
allow them plenty of freedom to pursue excitement.
ESTPs as Parents
As parents, ESTPs often connect with their children
through a shared appreciation for activity and
spontaneity. ESTPs are often as interested and curious
about the world as their children are, and will encourage
their children to engage physically and take risks.
ESTP parents are less patient with timid or sensitive
children, and may want their children to be hardy and
thick-skinned. They may not have much interest in quiet
moments or emotional discussions. They enjoy seeing
their children succeed, especially in athletic or
competitive pursuits, and will often play the role of
enthusiastic coach.
ESTP Type Dynamics
The core of the ESTP personality type is Extraverted
Sensing. This dominant function guides the way ESTPs
take in information and experience the world around
them. Using Extraverted Sensing, ESTPs notice details
in their environment and observe the realities of their
situation. They focus on the various sensations that the
world has to offer and seek to experience the present
moment.
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The auxiliary function for ESTPs is Introverted Thinking.
This mental function supports their dominant Extraverted
Sensing to help them process and evaluate information
internally. Using Introverted Thinking, ESTPs seek
orderly, systematic and logical thinking. They analyze
data to create rational understanding within their own
minds.
The tertiary Feeling function is less developed for most
ESTPs, especially early in life. When this function is not
well developed, ESTPs may have trouble tuning into
values and considering the impact of decisions on
people.
The inferior function for ESTPs, or that function which is
least likely to be conscious and well developed, is
Introverted Intuition. When this function is not developed,
ESTPs can having difficulty focusing inward on personal
insight and creating a vision for the future.
ESTP Under Stress
ESTPs may become stressed in situations where they
are required to plan extensively or project into the future.
They typically have difficulty imagining what the future
might hold, and an ESTP who is required to make
predictions or projections will often experience stress.
ESTPs like to keep their options open, and if forced to
4. ESTJ
ESTJs are hardworking traditionalists, eager to take
charge in organizing projects and people. Orderly, rule-
abiding, and conscientious, ESTJs like to get things
done, and tend to go about projects in a systematic,
methodical way.
ESTJs respect tradition and authority, and expect others
to do the same. For the ESTJ, the proof is in the past:
what has worked and what has been done before. They
look for existing rules to follow and established standards
to meet. ESTJs value factual evidence over conjecture,
and trust their personal experience.
ESTJs are the consummate organizers, and want to
bring structure to their surroundings. They value
predictability and prefer things to proceed in a logical
order. If chaos is present, the ESTJ often takes the
initiative to establish processes and guidelines, so that
everyone knows what's expected. The ESTJ wants to
achieve efficient productivity and typically believes this is
best accomplished when people and systems are well
organized.
ESTJs are usually outgoing and enjoy upholding family
and cultural traditions. They concern themselves with
maintaining the social order and keeping others in line.
ESTJs often take on a project manager role at home as
well as at work, and excel at setting goals, making
commit to a choice, especially about something that is
going to affect them in the long term, they can become
agitated and worried about the ramifications of their
decision.
Stress reactions in ESTPs often manifest as a tendency
to draw negative conclusions about the future and about
the prospects of their relationships. Because the ESTP’s
inferior funtion is Intuition, they can have trouble making
associations and interpreting meaning from what they
see, especially when forming interpretations about other
people. Under stress the ESTP is prone to making
unfounded assumptions and ascribing profound meaning
to insignificant details or observations from their
interactions with others. They may focus inward and
attempt to make sense of what is going on, but since
they are unaccustomed to this level of introspection, their
search for meaning may lead them into paranoia,
confusion, and dread at an imagined future of loneliness
and depression.
decisions, and organizing resources to accomplish a
task.
ESTJ in the Population
ESTJ is the fifth most common type in the population,
and the second most common among men. ESTJs make
up:
 9% of the general population
 11% of men
 6% of women
Popular Hobbies
Popular hobbies for the ESTJ include building and
repairing things around the home, gardening,
volunteering, community service, and playing and
watching sports.
Famous ESTJs
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Famous ESTJs include Colin Powell, Judge Judy
Sheindlin, Dr. Laura Schlessinger, George Washington,
Sandra Day O’Connor, Mike Wallace, Vince Lombardi,
and Harry Truman.
Research on ESTJ
Interesting facts about the ESTJ:
 On personality trait measures, likely to score as
Contented, Energetic, Prejudiced, Self-
Satisfied, and Practical
 More likely than other types to exhibit Type A
behavior
 Of all types, scored highest in coping resources
(with ENFP)
 Ranked 3rd highest in marital satisfaction
among all types
 Among top four types in college GPA
 Least likely of all types to think about suicide in
college
 Among most likely to stay in college
 Among types most satisfied with their work
 High-ranking personal values include Health,
Financial Security, Achievement, and Prestige
 Overrepresented among bank officers, financial
managers, and business owners
ESTJ at Work
At work, the ESTJ excels at organizing—people,
projects, and operations. ESTJs like to be in control and
often seek out management positions, preferring to be in
a role where they can make decisions and enforce
policies and procedures.
ESTJs quickly develop a reputation in the workplace as
people who can be trusted to deliver, on time and as
requested. They are unfailingly reliable and gain
satisfaction from bringing a project to completion.
Because of their eagerness to take on responsibility, they
sometimes become overworked.
The ideal work environment for an ESTJ is highly
structured, with a clear set of expectations and an
organized authority structure. The ideal job for an ESTJ
allows them to use their organizational skills within a set
of standardized procedures to efficiently produce a
tangible product.
Popular Careers for the ESTJ
Top careers for the ESTJ include:
Sales Engineer Chief Financial Officer Pharmacist
Stockbroker Chief Information Dentist
Officer
Insurance Agent Physician
Military Officer
Sales Manager Athletic Trainer
Police Officer
Purchasing Agent Civil Engineer
Airline Pilot
ESTJ Communication Style
ESTJs are practical, action-oriented communicators.
They often assume control and communicate to organize
and determine what needs to be done. ESTJs are clear
about expectations and procedures; they explain the
necessary steps as well as how and when tasks should
be completed. They are open to debate and criticism, but
want rules to be followed and work to get done. They are
focused on tasks and results and have little patience for
deviation or nonconformity.
ESTJs as Partners
In relationships, the ESTJ is dependable, responsible,
and opinionated. ESTJs appreciate routine and family
traditions, and want stability and security in their home
life. They tend to have very structured lives and
organized homes.
ESTJs can be domineering, and often want to dictate
schedules and procedures for the people around them.
Decisive and strong-willed, they are sometimes impatient
with their partners' feelings. They may need to work on
relaxing control and opening the lines of communication.
ESTJs want a relationship they can rely on, and one that
helps them live out their ideals of a traditional home life.
ESTJs value a partner who appreciates their
responsibility and productivity, and one who notices the
ESTJ’s tangible contributions to the relationship.
ESTJs as Parents
As parents, ESTJs insist on clear roles and expectations.
They emphasize respect for authority and for the rules of
the household. ESTJ parents often take control of the
family and assign jobs and duties to family members,
expecting that these roles be carried out without
complaint.
ESTJs are traditionalists with a strong appreciation for
holidays, ceremonies, and cultural occasions, and often
18
connect with their children through established rituals.
The ESTJ’s ultimate goal in parenting is to raise their
children to be hardworking, productive, and observant of
the rules and expectations of society.
ESTJ Type Dynamics
The core of the ESTJ personality type is Extraverted
Thinking. This dominant function guides the way ESTJs
evaluate information and approach the world around
them. Using Extraverted Thinking, ESTJs seek to create
logical, orderly systems in their environments. They set
goals, make objective decisions, and communicate clear
plans for action.
The auxiliary function for ESTJs is Introverted Sensing.
This mental function supports their dominant Extraverted
Thinking to help them gather information and organize it
internally. Using Introverted Sensing, ESTJs assemble a
storehouse of detailed information based on their
practical experience, creating a body of evidence they
can use to inform their plans for
action.
The tertiary Intuition function is less
developed for most ESTJs, especially
early in life. When this function is not
well developed, the ESTJ may have
trouble seeing patterns and the long-
term implications of the information in
front of them.
The inferior function for ESTJs, or
that function which is least likely to be
conscious and well developed, is
Introverted Feeling. When this
function is not developed, the ESTJ
may have difficulty making decisions
based on their personal values.
5. ISFJ
ISFJs are industrious caretakers, loyal to traditions and
organizations. They are practical, compassionate, and
and caring, and are motivated to provide for others and
protect them from the perils of life.
ISFJs take their personal values seriously, and are
committed to maintaining harmonious and cooperative
relationships. They want stability and longevity in their
connections with others, and tend to maintain a deep
devotion to family. They look for people they can rely
upon over the long term.
ISFJs appreciate tradition and are often the family
historians, ensuring that younger generations respect
and value the established customs. They appreciate
knowing how things have been done in the past, and
want to observe the proper, established method.
ESTJ Under Stress
ESTJs may become stressed when dealing with people
who are illogical or very emotional. Typically objective
and blunt, ESTJs may be stressed by other people who
react to the ESTJ’s critiques with strong emotions. ESTJs
want others to act in a rational, efficient manner, and can
become frustrated if they are required to work with
people who are incompetent or uncooperative. When
their drive to organize is thwarted by irrational personal
issues, ESTJs find themselves out of their depth, and a
stress reaction often follows.
Stress reactions in ESTJs often manifest as a loss in
productivity, as the ESTJ loses the ability to organize
their surroundings effectively. Because the ESTJ’s
inferior function is Feeling, they will often find themselves
overcome by unfamiliar emotional states when under
stress. They may become hypersensitive to criticism and
feel unappreciated or excluded. Because the ESTJ is
typically ruled by logic, the sense of being driven by
emotions is unfamiliar to them, and may make them feel
embarrassed, ashamed, or out of control. They will tend
to try to keep their difficulties private, but when under
extreme stress, they may experience emotional
outbursts.
ISFJs are responsible and committed workers, and place
great importance on fulfilling their duties, particularly
when they are taking care of the needs of others. They
want others to know that they are reliable and can be
trusted to do what is expected of them. ISFJs are
conscientious and methodical, and persist until the job is
done.
ISFJ in the Population
ISFJ is the most common type in the U.S. population,
and the most common type among women. ISFJs make
up:
 14% of the general population
 19% of women
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  8% of men
Popular Hobbies
Popular leisure activities for ISFJs include cooking,
gardening, painting, crafts, picnics, nature walks, and
watching movies. They are also often found supporting
their loved ones in their interests and activities.
Famous ISFJs
Famous ISFJs include Mother Teresa, George H.W.
Bush, Laura Bush, King George VI, and Clara Barton.
Research on ISFJ
Interesting facts about the ISFJ:
 On personality trait measures, score as
Conservative, Conventional, Guarded, and
Reserved
 Among types most likely to believe in a higher
spiritual power
 More likely than average to experience chronic
pain
 Among types most likely to suffer heart disease
 Second most common type among education
majors in college
 More likely than other types to watch more than
3 hours of television per day
 Personal values include Happy family, Health
and Spirituality
 Overrepresented among MBA students and
male small business owners
 Among three types with the lowest income
 Commonly found in education, health care, and
religious occupations
ISFJ at Work
At work, the ISFJ is motivated by the desire to help
others in a practical, organized way. ISFJs are driven by
their core of personal values, which often include
upholding tradition, taking care of others, and working
hard.
ISFJs enjoy work that requires careful attention to detail
and adherence to established procedures, and like to be
efficient and structured in their completion of tasks. They
prefer an explicit authority structure and clear
expectations.
ISFJs usually prefer to work behind the scenes, and like
to receive recognition in a low-key way without being
required to present their work publicly. They want to feel
that they have fulfilled their duties, but do not want to be
thrust into the spotlight.
An ideal job for an ISFJ involves well-defined work tasks
that achieve a concrete or observable result, and does
not require a lot of multi-tasking. An ideal work
environment for an ISFJ is orderly, provides plenty of
privacy, and includes colleagues who share the ISFJ’s
values.
Popular Careers for the ISFJ
Top careers for the ISFJ include:
Dentist; Health Care Administrator; Nurse; Speech
Pathologist; Veterinarian; Preschool Teacher; Elementary
Teacher; School Administrator; Counselor; Social Worker;
Biologist; Food Scientist; Medical Researcher;
Conservation Scientist; Librarian.
ISFJ Communication Style
ISFJs take a supportive role in communication, listening
to tune into the needs of others. They tend to be sensitive
and want to collaborate to support everyone involved.
ISFJs rarely demand the floor, but are often quietly taking
in detailed information from the world around them. They
contribute information when they see a practical use for it
or when they see that it could be helpful. ISFJs are loyal
to what they see first-hand, and will often share
perspectives based on personal experience.
ISFJs as Partners
In relationships, the ISFJ is generous, accomodating,
and loyal. ISFJs are dedicated to the task of taking care
of their loved ones, and take their family responsibilities
seriously. They look for ways to provide and to assist,
and are attentive to the details of the people around
them.
ISFJs appreciate history and tradition, and often want to
create a relationship that reflects traditional ideals.
Whether male or female, the ISFJ typically adheres to
customary gender roles, and dutifully takes on the
corresponding household duties.
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ISFJs are motivated to help, and may put their partner’s
needs ahead of their own. They typically have a clear
idea of what a partner "should" do, but are not likely to be
outwardly demanding when it comes to their own needs.
They prize harmony and will often withdraw rather than
engage in conflict.
ISFJs want a relationship that allows them to be helpful
and dutiful in their devotion to loved ones. They
appreciate a considerate and thoughtful partner who
recognizes their dedication and ability to nurture others.
ISFJs as Parents
As parents, ISFJs are devoted, traditional, and
responsible. They are often firm but loving disciplinarians,
and want to teach their children to do the right thing and
adhere to the rules of society.
ISFJ parents can be overprotective in their motivation to
shield their children from the dangers of life, and may
blame themselves for problems that their children
experience, feeling that they didn’t work hard enough as
parents. ISFJs are nurturing and practical, and typically
excellent at providing for their children’s daily needs.
ISFJ Type Dynamics
The core of the ISFJ personality type is Introverted
Sensing. This dominant function guides the way ISFJs
gather information and organize it in their own minds.
Using Introverted Sensing, ISFJs collect a storehouse of
detailed information based on their observations of
people and the world around them, creating a body of
practical knowledge they can use to be helpful and meet
the needs of other people.
The auxiliary function for ISFJs is Extraverted Feeling.
This mental function supports their dominant Introverted
Sensing to help them evaluate information and weigh
options in the world around them. Using Extraverted
Feeling, the ISFJ tunes into other people to create
harmonious relationships and organizes the environment
to meet people’s practical needs.
6. ISFP
ISFPs are gentle caretakers who live in the present
moment and enjoy their surroundings with cheerful, low-
key enthusiasm. They are flexible and spontaneous, and
like to go with the flow to enjoy what life has to offer.
ISFPs are quiet and unassuming, and may be hard to get
to know. However, to those who know them well, the
ISFP is warm and friendly, eager to share in life's many
experiences.
ISFPs tend to be tolerant and nonjudgmental, but are
deeply loyal to the people and causes that matter to
them. They endeavor to accept and support other people,
The tertiary Thinking function is less developed for most
ISFJs, especially early in life. When this function is not
well developed, ISFJs may have trouble using objective
logic to evaluate choices.
The inferior function for ISFJs, or that function which is
least likely to be conscious and well developed, is
Extraverted Intuition. When this function is not
developed, the ISFJ can find it a challenge to imagine
possibilities and make connections in what they see.
ISFJ Under Stress
ISFJs may become stressed in environments where they
can’t rely on their past experience to help them
understand what to expect. They want to a have practical
understanding of their surroundings, and often have
trouble in novel situations. ISFJs can become stressed if
they are asked to adopt a change without solid
justification, especially if the change affects other people.
It is important to ISFJs that they can be relied upon; they
may take on too much in an effort to be of service to
others and become overloaded and stressed as a result.
Worry and pessimism often mark a stress reaction in
ISFJs. Because their inferior function is Intuition, they
have trouble imagining the future, and under stress this
may manifest as a tendency to assume the worst. Under
extreme stress, ISFJs may reject any new idea or
proposition as having inevitably catastrophic
consequences. ISFJs can have difficulty relying on
logical objectivity, and under stress may invent “facts”
that support their pessimism about the outcomes of the
future. They often have more reliable storehouses of data
about people and relationships than they do about
rational systems like the economy or the environment,
and so may be particularly apt to imagine disasters in
money, career, and the natural world.
but are ultimately guided by their own core values. They
will typically look for ways to be accommodating and may
have difficulty dealing with others who are not willing to
do the same.
ISFPs have a strong aesthetic sense and seek out
beauty in their surroundings. They are attuned to sensory
experience, and often have a natural talent for the arts.
ISFPs especially excel at manipulating objects, and may
wield creative tools like paintbrushes and sculptor's
knives with great mastery.
21
ISFPs are typically modest and may underestimate
themselves. They usually do not like to be in the
spotlight, preferring instead to take a supporting role, and
will avoid planning and organizing whenever possible.
Sensitive and responsive, they step in to do what needs
to be done and are satisfied by their personal sense of
being helpful to others.
ISFP in the Population
ISFP is the fourth most common type in the population.
ISFPs make up:
 9% of the general population
 10% of women
 8% of men
Popular Hobbies
Popular hobbies for ISFPs are those that use their
physical or artistic skills, including independent athletics
like skiing or swimming, dance, and craft projects. ISFPs
also enjoy entertaining in intimate groups and exploring
art and nature.
Famous ISFPs
Famous ISFPs include Cher, Barbra Streisand,
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Bob Dylan, Wolfgang
Amadeus Mozart, and Steven Spielberg.
Research on ISFP
Interesting facts about the ISFP:
 On personality trait measures, score as
Easygoing
 Among types most likely to report heart
disease and hypertension
 In college, likely to report low levels of
assertiveness
 In essays, projected themselves the fewest
number of years into the future of all the types
 Among the types least likely to stay in college
 Most likely of all types to report stress
associated with finances and children
 In a national sample, likely to value a work
environment which provides security, clear and
simple instructions, and no expectation of extra
work hours
 Underrepresented among MBA students and
small business owners
 Commonly found in occupations in health care,
business, and law enforcement
ISFP at Work
ISFPs want to feel personally engaged with their work,
and seek careers which allow them to express
themselves or participate in a cause they believe in.
ISFPs typically enjoy hands-on activities, and often gain
satisfaction when they can create a tangible result from
their efforts. An ideal job for an ISFP allows them to
clearly observe the fruits of their labor, in a context that
feels significant and consistent with their values.
ISFPs like a courteous, cooperative work environment
where they can work quietly, with support when they
need it. Because ISFPs are so tuned to their physical
surroundings, it's often important to them that their work
environment is aesthetically pleasing.
ISFPs generally prefer to keep a low profile and do not
usually like to be in positions that require them to speak
publicly or lead large groups. Although they often prefer
to work independently, when they do work with others,
ISFPs want their colleagues to be flexible, supportive,
and loyal to the team.
Popular Careers for the ISFP
Top careers for the ISFP include:
Fashion Designer Nurse Botanist
Interior Designer Massage Therapist Geologist
Cosmetologist Occupational Elementary
Therapist Teacher
Artist
Veterinary Assistant Social Worker
Landscape
Architect Dental Hygienist Translator
ISFP Communication Style
ISFPs are gentle, accepting communicators who tend to
follow the flow of conversation and look for opportunities
to contribute with factual information or practical help.
They are easygoing and supportive; they don’t want to be
in control or attract attention, and are often attentive
listeners. Considerate and accepting, the ISFP often
looks for common ground with others. ISFPs shy away
from conflict or criticism, preferring harmonious,
spontaneous interactions that allow them to be helpful
and kind.
22
ISFPs as Partners
In relationships, the ISFP is loyal, patient, and easygoing.
ISFPs are eager to help and quickly perceive the needs
of their partners and families. They often show affection
with simple, practical gestures that make their loved ones
feel comfortable and well taken care of.
ISFPs like to maintain harmony and are very reluctant to
engage in conflict. They may have difficulty asserting
themselves and struggle with expressing feelings of
anger or resentment. Ideally, they want to be cooperative
and accommodate others, and may find themselves
taken advantage of if their partners are not sensitive to
their needs.
ISFPs are tolerant and uncritical, and adapt easily to their
surroundings. They like to go with the flow and enjoy life
from moment to moment. An ideal mate for an ISFP
takes the time to show spontaneous gestures of
affection, and appreciates the ISFP’s kind and helpful
nature.
ISFPs as Parents
As parents, ISFPs are warm and sensitive, and take joy
in creating comfort and stability in their homes. ISFPs are
attentive to their children's practical needs and step in
quickly and gracefully to provide for them. They often
enjoy caring for children, but can sometimes become
overworked and exhausted because of their natural
impulse to help.
ISFP parents often seem calm and unflappable. ISFPs
are private people and can be reserved or remote, so
their children may not always grasp the depth of the ISFP
parent's devotion to family. Although it is not often
conspicuous, ISFPs have a deep loyalty to their loved
ones. They value their intimate connections above all
else and are tremendously dedicated to the care of their
children.
ISFP Type Dynamics
The core of the ISFP personality type
is Introverted Feeling. This dominant
function guides the way ISFPs make
sense of things and process
information in their own minds. Using
7. ESFP
ESFPs are vivacious entertainers
who charm and engage those around
them. They are spontaneous,
energetic, and fun-loving, and take
pleasure in the things around them:
food, clothes, nature, animals, and
especially people.
Introverted Feeling, ISFPs develop a strong sense of
values—often practical, compassionate principles that
revolve around caring for people and nature—and
evaluate everything against these central values.
The auxiliary function for ISFPs is Extraverted Sensing.
This mental function supports their dominant Introverted
Feeling to help them take in information about the world
around them. When using Extraverted Sensing, ISFPs
observe facts and details in the world around them. They
tune into sensory experiences and notice the practical
needs of other people.
The tertiary Intuition function is less developed for most
ISFPs, especially early in life. When this function is not
well developed, the ISFP may have trouble seeing
patterns, connections, and the larger implications of the
information in front of them.
The inferior function for ISFPs, or that function which is
least likely to be conscious and well developed, is
Extraverted Thinking. When this function is not
developed, ISFPs can have trouble evaluating options
and making decisions based on objective logic.
ISFP Under Stress
ISFPs typically become stressed when an important
value is violated. They are fundamentally guided by their
own deeply held moral principles; if those principles are
ignored or called into question, they often find this very
stressful. ISFPs may also become stressed in
environments where people are not supported. They are
characteristically accepting and tolerant, and if put in an
environment where people are routinely criticized, they
will often react with stress.
Stress reactions in ISFPs often manifest as a tendency to
be critical or judgmental of others. Because the ISFP’s
inferior function is Thinking, they are not used to
delivering objective criticism, and may find themselves
being unreasonably harsh when pointing out others’
mistakes. They may express themselves impulsively,
jumping at any chance to loudly point out another
person’s failings. ISFPs under stress often draw
unfounded conclusions about their own and other’s
incompetence, focusing on mistakes of the past and
projecting them into a future of failure.
ESFPs are typically warm and talkative and have a
contagious energy. They like to be in the middle of the
action and the center of attention. They often have a
playful, open sense of humor, and like to draw out other
people and help them have a good time.
23
ESFPs live in the moment, and tend not to like to plan
ahead. They prefer to be free to take up whatever sounds
diverting at the moment. They often fill their lives with
hobbies, sports activities, and friends, and because they
often lack a master plan, they can become overextended
or unfocused when they have too many exciting things to
do.
Although they are characteristically fun-loving, ESFPs
are also typically practical and down-to-earth. They are
grounded in reality and are usually keenly aware of the
facts and details in their environment, especially as they
pertain to people. They are observant of others' practical
needs and responsive in offering assistance.
ESFP in the Population
ESFP is the third most common type among women, and
the seventh most common among men. ESFPs make up:
 9% of the general population
 10% of women
 7% of men
Popular Hobbies
Popular hobbies for ESFPs include socializing, team
sports, home improvement projects, cooking,
entertaining, games, and dance. ESFPs love big parties
and gatherings and are quick to join any group or activity
that sounds like fun.
Famous ESFPs
Famous ESFPs include Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor,
Judy Garland, Magic Johnson, Elvis Presley, Ronald
Reagan, Paul McCartney, Bob Hope, and Goldie Hawn.
Research on ESFP
Interesting facts about the ESFP:
 On personality trait measures, score as
Changeable, Energetic, Forceful, Initiating, and
Resourceful
 More likely to use emotional coping techniques
over spiritual or physical resources
 Tend to look to authority in education rather
than expressing intellectual curiosity; prefer
hands-on learning
 Among most likely to stay in college
 More likely than other types to watch television
for more than 3 hours a day
 Second highest of all types in marital
satisfaction
 Among types with lowest income
 At work, tend to be satisfied with co-workers
but dissatisfied with job security, stress, salary,
and accomplishment
 Personal values include Home/Family, Health,
Friendships, Financial Security, and Spirituality
 Overrepresented in health care, teaching,
coaching, and child care occupations
ESFP at Work
At work, the ESFP wants to be hands-on and in the
middle of the action. ESFPs prefer an active, social work
environment where they are free to be spontaneous and
have fun, with co-workers who are friendly, laid-back, and
enthusiastic.
ESFPs are pragmatic, realistic, and tuned into the needs
of others. They often choose a job that allows them to be
of service to people, and where they can see real,
tangible results for their efforts. They are talented at
solving practical, people-centered problems, and can put
this skill to good use in assisting others.
ESFPs are keenly tuned into their senses and often have
an artistic streak. They may choose careers that engage
their sensual nature through food, textiles, art, or music.
ESFPs often want a career that allows them to move
around, and generally prefer a work environment that is
aesthetically pleasing.
ESFPs are stressed by strict rules or excessive
bureaucracy at work, and want the flexibility to address
situations as they arise. They generally focus on the
demands of the present moment, and do not usually like
to work on long-term projects, preferring work that has
immediate and tangible results.
Popular Careers for the ESFP
Top careers for the ESFP include:
Elementary Teacher; Recreation Worker; Social Worker;
Special Education Teacher; Nurse; Cosmetologist; Retail
Manager; Buyer; Public Relations Manager; Event
Coordinator; Fashion Designer; Interior Designer;
Jeweler; Landscape Architect; Chef.
ESFP Communication Style
ESFPs are enthusiastic, light-hearted communicators.
They often love just interacting with people, with no
particular goal in mind, and tend to keep conversations
fun and full of laughter. ESFPs are free with compliments
24
and energy, and and often draw people in with their
positive approach and ability to observe other people’s
needs. ESFPs are good problem-solvers when it comes
to practical and interpersonal issues, but they tend to
avoid negativity; discussions that turn to criticism or
conflict will send the ESFP running.
ESFPs as Partners
In relationships, the ESFP is generous, friendly,
sympathetic, and affectionate. ESFPs are eager to
please their partners and motivated to create a fun,
harmonious, and active home. They often enjoy family
life tremendously and typically prioritize socializing with
loved ones above all else.
ESFPs tend to avoid conflict and may have trouble being
serious, preferring to move on with their active lives
rather than have an uncomfortable discussion. They are
tuned into the needs of the people around them, but
prefer to do something constructive to take care of their
loved ones, rather than spend time hashing out difficult
issues.
ESFPs are supportive of their mates and try to take good
care of their families, but can be impulsive as they
pursue the pleasures of life. They may go where the wind
blows and neglect to follow up on responsibilities. They
are characteristically spontaneous and usually dislike a
structured lifestyle.
ESFPs want a partner who supports them in their lifelong
pursuit of fun and excitement. An ideal mate for an ESFP
is affectionate and appreciative of the ESFP’s generosity
and desire to be helpful to others.
ESFPs as Parents
As parents, ESFPs are loving, affectionate, and fun, and
usually like to have their households full of people having
a good time. They may have many children, and are
good at responding to their families' practical needs.
ESFPs may be a bit unpredictable or scattered, and will
prefer to engage everyone in a fun activity rather than
impose rules or discipline. They do not tend to take life
seriously, and often consider it more important to provide
excitement and fun than to create structure or stability for
their children.
ESFP Type Dynamics
The core of the ESFP personality type is Extraverted
Sensing. This dominant function guides the way ESFPs
8. ESFJ
take in information and experience
the world around them. Using
Extraverted Sensing, ESFPs notice
details in their environment and
collect information about the people
around them. They focus on sensory
experiences and seek to experience
the present moment.
The auxiliary function for ESFPs is
Introverted Feeling. This mental
function supports their dominant
Extraverted Sensing to help them
evaluate and prioritize information
internally. When using Introverted
Feeling, ESFPs weigh information
from the outside world against their
own personal values system. They
create an internal moral compass with the focus of caring
for others and responding to their needs.
The tertiary Thinking function is less developed for most
ESFPs, especially early in life. When this function is not
well developed, ESFPs may have trouble using objective
logic to make decisions.
The inferior function for ESFPs, or that function which is
least likely to be conscious and well developed, is
Introverted Intuition. When this function is not developed,
ESFPs can having difficulty focusing inward on personal
insight and creating a vision for the future.
ESFP Under Stress
ESFPs may become stressed in situations where they
are required to plan extensively or project into the future.
They typically have difficulty imagining what the future
might hold, and an ESFP who is required to make
predictions or projections will often experience stress.
ESFPs like to keep their options open, and if forced to
commit to a choice, especially about something that is
going to affect them in the long term, they can become
agitated and worried about the ramifications of their
decision.
Stress reactions in ESFPs often manifest as a tendency
to make gloomy predictions about the future and their
own ability to deal with it effectively. Because the ESFP’s
inferior funtion is Intuition, they can have trouble
interpreting meaning from what they see. Under stress,
they may make unfounded assumptions and draw
sweeping, pessimistic conclusions from insignificant
details. They may seize on any evidence of their own
weaknesses and conclude that they are, in fact, totally
incompentent. ESFPs under stress typically focus inward
in a search for meaning, but since they are
unaccustomed to introspection, they may find their
thoughts turning to paranoia, confusion, and dread.
25
ESFJs are conscientious helpers, sensitive to the needs
of others and energetically dedicated to their
responsibilities. They are highly attuned to their
emotional environment and attentive to both the feelings
of others and the perception others have of them. ESFJs
like a sense of harmony and cooperation around them,
and are eager to please and provide.
ESFJs value loyalty and tradition, and usually make their
family and friends their top priority. They are generous
with their time, effort, and emotions. They often take on
the concerns of others as if they were their own, and will
attempt to put their significant organizational talents to
use to bring order to other people's lives.
ESFJs prefer to act according to a strict moral code, and
may try to impose the same code on others. They often
see things in black and white and express their emotional
reactions easily, which can cause them to seem
judgmental if they do not temper their opinions with
compassion. ESFJs are especially sensitive to slights,
and logical arguments rarely persuade them when their
values have been violated.
ESFJs tend to be serious and practical, dutifully putting
business before pleasure—especially the business of
caring for others. They typically enjoy routine and often
keep a regular schedule that allows them to be orderly
and productive.
ESFJ in the Population
ESFJ is the second most common type in the population.
ESFJs make up:
 12% of the general population
 17% of women
 8% of men
Popular Hobbies
Popular leisure activities for ESFJs include volunteering
in community, charity, or religious organizations;
celebrating holidays and family traditions; cooking;
entertaining; and social sports.
Famous ESFJs
Famous ESFJs include Martha Stewart, Dave Thomas,
Sam Walton, Barbara Walters, William Howard Taft, JC
Penney, Sally Field, Mary Tyler Moore, and Ray Kroc.
Research on ESFJ
Interesting facts about the ESFJ:
 Underrepresented among people suffering from
substance abuse
 Among types highest in resources for coping
with stress
 Second most likely of all types to report
believing in a higher spiritual power
 Highest of all types in reported satisfaction with
their marriage or intimate relationship
 Among most likely of all types to stay in college
 Most likely of all types to be satisfied with their
co-workers
 Values at work include clear structure, security,
and the ability to be of service to others
 Among the types most satisfied with their work
 Commonly found in careers in education,
health care, and religion
ESFJ at Work
ESFJs like to put their interpersonal skills to work to
organize people and processes. They are tuned into the
needs of others and seek to create structure to provide
for people. ESFJs often prefer work that allows them to
help people in practical, observable ways.
ESFJs enjoy work that allows them to follow through and
see results, and prefer a high degree of structure and
organization. They gain satisfaction from completing
tasks with attention to order and detail. An ideal job for an
ESFJ requires attention to procedure and specifications,
and allows the ESFJ to work methodically to organize
people and processes.
ESFJs usually prefer to work with others, and are
energized by participating in a motivated, conscientious,
action-oriented team. It is important to the ESFJ to do
work that is accordant with their values, as well as to
work with others who are supportive and cooperative. An
ideal work environment for an ESFJ provides clear
expectations and a friendly, structured atmosphere free
from conflict or uncertainty.
Popular Careers for the ESFJ
Elementary Teacher Family Minister
Physician
Special Education Buyer
Teacher Dentist
Public Relations
Child Care Provider Medical Manager
Assistant
School Administrator HR Manager
26

Optometrist
Counselor Corporate Trainer
Speech
Pathologist
ESFJ Communication Style
ESFJs are enthusiastic and caring communicators, who
want to engage people to contribute and accomplish
what needs to be done. They tend to be friendly and to
get along easily with others, although they can become
frustrated with those who do not respond to their
attempts to reach out. They have a good memory for
detail, especially facts about other people, and enjoy
getting to know people and understanding their needs.
ESFJs are factual in their communication, but generally
uncomfortable with criticism and conflict, preferring
instead to provide support and encouragement to others.
ESFJs as Partners
In relationships, the ESFJ is supportive, nurturing, and
reliable. ESFJs concern themselves with providing
practical support to their partners and living up to
traditional standards in a relationship: they want to be the
"good wife" or husband based on traditional ideals.
ESFJs like an organized life and want their partners to
participate in a structured, scheduled lifestyle. They
adhere strictly to their own moral code, and want a
partner who agrees with them on issues of right and
wrong, should and should not. Conscientiousness is
important to the ESFJ, and when they follow through
responsibly on their promises, they expect the same from
others.
ESFJs dislike conflict and are motivated to resolve it
quickly. They prefer stable, harmonious relationships and
like a partner who is able to be loving and committed,
even when the ESFJ has strong emotional reactions.
ESFJs appreciate a partner who notices their efforts to
provide for their families, and commends them on a job
well done.
ESFJs as Parents
As parents, ESFJs provide clear structure and loving
boundaries. They are interested in providing a safe and
stable home with adequate resources, and in instilling a
strong moral code and work ethic into their children. They
are extremely devoted to their children, and go to
tremendous lengths to be sure they are provided for.
ESFJs often strongly identify with their children’s
behavior, feeling tremendous pride when they succeed
but an enormous sense of personal failure when they do
not. ESFJs may become embarrassed and critical of
children who do not behave as expected; they want their
children to adopt and follow their own strong system of
values.
ESFJ Type Dynamics
The core of the ESFJ personality type is Extraverted
Feeling. This dominant function guides the way ESFJs
evaluate information and structure the world around
them. Using Extraverted Feeling, the ESFJ seeks to
create harmonious relationships and cooperation. They
tune into the needs and emotions of the people around
them and organize the environment to provide practical
support for others.
The auxiliary function for ESFJs is Introverted Sensing.
This mental function supports their dominant Extraverted
Feeling to help them gather information and organize it
internally. When using Introverted Sensing, ESFJs
assemble a storehouse of detailed information based on
their observations of other people, creating a body of
practical knowledge they can use to better care for
others.
The tertiary Intuition function is less developed for most
ESFJs, especially early in life. When this function is not
well developed, the ESFJ may have trouble seeing
patterns, connections, and the larger implications of the
information in front of them.
The inferior function for ESFJs, or that function which is
least likely to be conscious and well developed, is
Introverted Thinking. When this function is not developed,
ESFJs can have trouble evaluating circumstances using
their own objective reasoning.
ESFJ Under Stress
ESFJs often become stressed in environments of
persistent conflict. They are closely observant of the
feelings of others and the overall emotional climate;
when this is disturbed, the ESFJ notices and feels the
stress as well. Personal attacks and criticism are
especially stressful for the ESFJ. ESFJs try hard to
please and find it difficult to deal with people who seem
to have judged them harshly. ESFJs dislike being
isolated, and want cooperation. If they are forced to deal
with a problem without the support of others, a stress
response often follows.
Stress reactions in ESFJs often manifest as a tendency
to be critical or lash out at others. Because the ESFJ’s
inferior function is Thinking, they are not accustomed to
evaluating others objectively, and their criticism may be
overly harsh, blunt, and hurtful. Their normally giving
manner may transform into blaming, as they insist that
others take advantage of them. ESFJs under stress tend
to become judgmental, using convoluted reasoning to
27
justify their severe evaluations of themselves and others.
They may focus on the idea that there is one correct
answer to their problems, and get stuck in ineffective
attempts to arrive at an objective solution. They often
9. INFJ
INFJs are creative nurturers with a strong sense of
personal integrity and a drive to help others realize their
potential. Creative and dedicated, they have a talent for
helping others with original solutions to their personal
challenges.
INFJs are guided by firm principles and closely held
values, and often have a vision of a happier and more
ideal future. However, they are not content to just have
ideas: they are motivated and persistent in making their
vision into reality.
INFJs want a meaningful life and deep connections with
other people. They do not tend to share themselves
freely but appreciate emotional intimacy with a select,
committed few. Although their rich inner life can
sometimes make them seem mysterious or private to
others, they enjoy making authentic connections with
people they trust.
The Counselor has a unique ability to intuit others'
emotions and motivations, and will often know how
someone else is feeling before that person knows it
himself. They trust their insights about others and have
strong faith in their ability to read people.
INFJ in the Population
INFJ is the rarest type in the population. It is the least
common type among men, and the third least common
among women (after INTJ and ENTJ). INFJs make up:
 2% of the general population
 2% of women
 1% of men
Popular Hobbies
Popular hobbies for the INFJ include writing, art
appreciation, cultural events, reading, socializing in
small, intimate settings, and playing or listening to music.
Famous INFJs
Famous INFJs include Mohandas Gandhi, Eleanor
Roosevelt, Emily Bronte, Carl Jung, Fyodor Dostoevsky,
Florence Nightingale, Shirley MacLaine, and Jimmy
Carter.
collect knowledge from books or experts in an attempt to
discover the “truth.”
Research on INFJ
Interesting facts about the INFJ:
 Least common type in the population
 On personality trait scales, scored as Sincere,
Sympathetic, Unassuming, Submissive,
Easygoing, Reserved and Patient
 Among highest of all types in college GPA
 Among most likely to stay in college
 Most likely of all types to cope with stress by
seeing a therapist
 Highest of all types in marital dissatisfaction
 Personal values include Spirituality, Learning,
and Community Service
 Commonly found in careers in religion,
counseling, teaching, and the arts
INFJ at Work
At work, the INFJ is focused on the task of bettering the
human condition. INFJs are dedicated, helpful, and
principled workers who can be relied on to envision, plan,
and carry out complex projects for humanitarian causes.
Although they are typically driven by lofty ideals,
Counselors gain the most satisfaction from their work
when they can turn their ideas into reality, creating
constructive change for other people.
INFJs are typically organized and prefer work that allows
them to complete projects in an orderly manner. They are
often independent and tend to prefer a quiet environment
that allows them the opportunity to fully develop their own
thoughts and ideas.
The ideal work environment for an INFJ is harmonious,
industrious, and oriented to a humanitarian mission, with
co-workers who are similarly committed to positive
change. The ideal job for a Counselor allows them to use
their creativity in an independent, organized environment
to develop and implement a vision that is consistent with
their personal values.
28
Popular Careers for the INFJ
Top careers for the INFJ include:
Librarian Clinical Psychologist Physical Therapist
Curator Counselor Public Health
Educator
Translator Social Worker
Family Physician
Editor Speech Pathologist
Biomedical
Graphic Organizational Engineer
Designer Psychologist
Occupational
Therapist
INFJ Communication Style
INFJs are reserved about communication, and often
keep their most treasured ideas and insights private.
They are oriented to values and connection, and will
search for meaning in the information they take in. They
think deeply and often need time to process and evaluate
before they are ready to share their ideas. They seek
validation and will take the time to appreciate others and
their ideas. They are often talented at making
connections to bring people together and integrate ideas,
values, and human potential.
INFJs as Partners
In relationships, the INFJ is supportive and guided by a
sense of integrity. The INFJ's interest in human
development applies to their mates as well, and they are
encouraging of their partner's dreams, aspirations, and
achievements.
INFJs want to maintain harmony in their relationships
and are highly motivated to resolve conflicts. They tend
to be creative problem-solvers and look for the emotional
core of an issue to create a meeting of the minds.
Although they desire cooperation, they are not willing to
go along with an idea that does not feel authentic to
them. When it comes to their core values and ethics, they
are unwilling to compromise.
INFJs want a high degree of intimacy and emotional
engagement, and are happiest when they feel they are
sharing their innermost thoughts and feelings with their
mates. INFJs value a partner who respects their deeply
held values and ethics, and one who appreciates their
creativity and inspiration.
INFJs as Parents
As parents, INFJs are devoted and loving. They tend to
form strong bonds with their children and are very closely
tuned in to their emotional states. Counselor parents
naturally see the possibilities in their children and
encourage them to develop their potential.
Although they support their children in their individual
interests, INFJ parents are firm disciplinarians,
particularly when it comes to moral or ethical concerns.
They are concerned with their children's emotional health
and spiritual development, and want to create a nurturing
atmosphere that promotes growth and well-being.
INFJ Type Dynamics
The core of the INFJ personality type is Introverted
Intuition. This dominant function guides the way
Counselors make sense of things and explore
information in their own minds. Using Intoverted Intuition,
the INFJ contemplates connections and creates
meaning. The reflect on their interpretation of patterns
and possibilities to develop insight and understanding.
The auxiliary function for INFJs is Extraverted Feeling.
This mental function supports their dominant Introverted
Intuition to help them evaluate information and options in
the world around them. When using
Extraverted Feeling, the Counselor
works to align the external world with
their values. They focus on the needs
of other people to support them in
realizing their potential.
The tertiary Thinking function is less
developed for most INFJs, especially
early in life. When this function is not
well developed, INFJs may have
trouble using objective logic in
decision-making.
The inferior function for INFJs, or that
function which is least likely to be
conscious and well developed, is
Extraverted Sensing. When this
function is not developed, the
Counselor may favor imagination and idealism to a fault,
and neglect the realities of the world around them.
INFJ Under Stress
INFJs often become stressed when working with large
amounts of detailed information. Detail-oriented activities
such as paying bills or preparing tax returns often bring
on a stress response in INFJs. They also need plenty of
private time and space to reflect and process thoughts.
Being constantly surrounded by people, especially those
they don’t connect with, can cause the Counselor stress.
INFJs may also be stressed by situations that restrict
their creativity. They want to have freedom to express
their vision, and being limited by rigid structure often
brings stress.
A stress response in the INFJ often manifests as an
uncomfortable focus on the external environment.
29
Because the INFJ’s inferior function is Sensing, they are tendency to overindulge in sensual pleasures: eating,
unaccustomed to attending to the details in the world drinking, or watching television.
around them. When their focus turns to external sensory
experience, this attention often feels stressful and
frightening. The INFJ may worry that the physical
environment will fail them: that belongings will break or
go missing, or that resources will be inadequate. They
may obsessively organize in an attempt to control their
environments. Stress can also show itself through a

10.INFP
INFPs are imaginative idealists, guided by their own core
values and beliefs. To a Healer, possibilities are
paramount; the realism of the moment is only of passing
concern. They see potential for a better future, and
pursue truth and meaning with their own individual flair.
Typically unconventional, Healers often develop an
offbeat personal style and enjoy expressing themselves
with creative pursuits like writing or art. They value
originality and want to be authentic and individual in what
they do. Following tradition holds little appeal for the
INFP, who would prefer to invent something that feels
unique to them.
INFPs are usually flexible and accommodating, and can
often see many points of view. They usually try to support
other people but will react strongly if they feel their values
are being violated. They especially hate being
steamrolled, and want an open, supportive exchange of
ideas.
Famous INFPs
Famous INFPs include Isabel Myers (creator of the
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator), St. John the disciple, Carl
Rogers, Princess Diana, George Orwell, Audrey
Hepburn, Fred Rogers, A.A. Milne, Helen Keller,
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Julia Roberts, and William
Shakespeare.
Research on INFP
Interesting facts about the INFP:
 On personality trait measures, score as Artistic,
Reflective, Careless, Sensitive, Flexible, and
Appreciative
 Among least likely of all types to suffer heart
disease

INFPs are sensitive, caring, and compassionate, and are
deeply concerned with the personal growth of
themselves and others. However, they also tend to be
independent, soft-spoken, and reserved, and can
sometimes seem aloof, especially to new acquaintances.
They prefer to seek depth in relationships where they feel
a real connection.
INFPs in the Population
INFP is the ninth most common type in the population.
They make up:
 4% of the general population
 In men, among least likely to report chronic
pain
 Second highest of all types to report marital
dissatisfaction
 Among most likely to have suicidal thoughts in
college
 Tend to be more successful than the average in
learning a foreign language
 Among types most likely to be dissatisfied with
their work

 5% of women  Personal values include Autonomy and

Creativity
 4% of men
 Overrepresented in occupations in counseling,
Popular Hobbies writing, and the arts

Popular hobbies for INFPs include poetry, creative INFP at Work

writing, music, photography, theater, and visual art.

30
At work, the INFP is not particularly driven by money or
status, preferring work that aligns with their personal
values and allows them to help others. INFPs are
typically motivated by vision and inspiration, and want to
engage with projects and causes that feel important to
them.
INFPs enjoy the process of creative problem-solving, and
want to understand complex issues. They appreciate
innovation, and want to come up with original ideas to
improve circumstances for people. An ideal job for a
Healer allows them to express their individuality in the
way they work, and takes advantage of their ability to see
unique solutions.
looking for a strong bond and congruent values. They are
self-aware and often spiritual.
INFPs tend to be open-minded and accepting of
another's behavior and preferences, so long as their core
values are not violated. They support their partners'
individuality, and encourage them to explore their
interests and ideas.
INFPs look for ways to compromise and accommodate
other people, and often have creative solutions to
interpersonal problems. They can be very sensitive, but
often keep negative reactions to themselves because
they are reluctant to engage in confrontation.

INFPs enjoy working autonomously and having control
over how and when to complete a project. They often
enjoy participating in teams, although they want to be
free to put their own personal stamp on their work. When
they do work with other people, it's important to the INFP
that they be cooperative, supportive, and flexible, and
that they have similar passion for their ideals.
Close and harmonious relationships are important to
INFPs, although they also need a lot of independent time
to think and reflect. They often want plenty of freedom to
express themselves and pursue greater self-awareness.
They value a partner who is committed and loving, yet
provides them with the support they need to
independently explore the mysteries of life.

Popular Careers for the INFP INFPs as Parents

Top careers for the INFP include: As parents, INFPs are caring, supportive, and adaptable.
They rarely establish a strict or structured household,
preferring instead to address problems and situations as
Organizational they arise. They often allow their children a lot of latitude
Artist Social Scientist and influence in making decisions, and may leave the
Psychologist
creation and enforcement of household rules up to
Graphic Religious Educator another parent.
HR Recruiter or
Designer
Trainer
Clinical Children of INFPs often find that they have the freedom
Writer Psychologist to express themselves and make their own decisions
Career Coach
until they violate their INFP parent's values. When values
Translator Counselor are in question, the Healer parent becomes firm and
Public Relations inflexible.
Specialist
Fashion Public Health
Designer Educator INFP Type Dynamics
Librarian
The core of the INFP personality type
is Introverted Feeling. This dominant
INFP Communication Style function guides the way INFPs make
sense of things and process
INFPs are gentle, encouraging communicators who enjoy information in their own minds. Using
exploring options and ideas. They envision possibilities Introverted Feeling, INFPs seek
for people and are often good at coming up with creative, meaning and truth in their emotional
flexible solutions to problems. They are typically attentive experience. They reflect to create a
listeners who try to adapt their communication style to deep sense of personal values and
the people they are dealing with. Compassionate and seek clarity based on their own
cooperative, they tend to be appreciative of other people internal values system.
and their ideas, although they may be reserved about
sharing their own closely held values and ideas with The auxiliary function for INFPs is
people they do not know well. Extraverted Intuition. This mental
function supports their dominant
INFPs as Partners Introverted Feeling to help them take
in information about the world around
them. When using Extraverted
In relationships, the INFP is nurturing, empathic, and
Intuition, INFPs explore meaning and imagine
loyal. Healers select their friends and partners carefully,
possibilities for improving their environments. They are

31
curious about others and pursue understanding of people
and ideas.
The tertiary Sensing function is less developed for most
INFPs, especially early in life. When this function is not
well developed, INFPs may have trouble noticing present
realities and facts about the physical world.
The inferior function for INFPs, or that function which is
least likely to be conscious and well developed, is
Extraverted Thinking. When this function is not
developed, INFPs can have trouble evaluating options
and making decisions based on objective logic.
INFP Under Stress
INFPs typically become stressed when an important
value is violated. They are fundamentally guided by their
11.ENFP
ENFPs are people-centered creators with a focus on
possibilities and a contagious enthusiasm for new ideas,
people and activities. Energetic, warm, and expressive,
ENFPs love to help other people explore their their
creative potential.
ENFPs tend to be curious about others and preoccupied
with discovering the deeper meaning in people and
ideas. They want authentic experience and often seek
emotional intensity. ENFPs are easily bored by details
and repetition and seek out situations that offer an
escape from the mundane. Novelty is attractive to
ENFPs, who often have a wide range of interests and
friends from many backgrounds.
ENFPs are typically adept communicators, using their
wit, humor, and mastery of language to create engaging
stories. Imaginative and original, ENFPs often have a
strong artistic side. They appreciate art for its ability to
express inventive ideas and create a deeper
understanding of human experience.
ENFPs prize individuality and often consider the pursuit
of happiness to be the highest priority in life, both for
themselves and for others. They place great importance
on personal freedom and want to be able to go wherever
inspiration leads.
ENFP in the Population
ENFP is a moderately common personality type, and is
the fifth most common among women. ENFPs make up:
 8% of the general population
 10% of women
own deeply held system of values; if those values are
ignored or called into question, they typically find this
very stressful. They may also become stressed in
environments where people are not supported. They are
characteristically accepting and caring, and if put in an
environment where people are routinely criticized, they
will often react with stress.
Stress reactions in INFPs often manifest as a tendency
to be critical or judgmental of others. Because the INFP’s
inferior function is Thinking, they are typically unused to
delivering objective criticism, and may become
unreasonably harsh when pointing out others’ mistakes.
They can express themselves impulsively, jumping at any
chance to loudly point out another person’s failings.
Healers under stress often collect “facts” that point to
their own and other’s incompetence, picking apart their
own work and others’ and cataloguing the many mistakes
that have been made.
 6% of men
Popular Hobbies
Popular hobbies for the ENFP include writing, creating
and appreciating art, playing musical instruments,
listening to music, participating in community theater, and
reading fiction.
Famous ENFPs
Famous ENFPs include Bill Clinton, Phil Donahue, Mark
Twain, Edith Wharton, Will Rogers, Carol Burnett, Dr.
Seuss, Robin Williams, Drew Barrymore, Julie Andrews,
Alicia Silverstone, Joan Baez, and Regis Philbin.
Research on ENFP
 On personality trait scales, scored as Enthusiastic,
Outgoing, Spontaneous, Changeable, Impulsive,
Energetic, and Understanding
 Scored among highest of all types in available
resources for coping with stress
 Among women, underrepresented among sufferers
of heart disease
 Among men, underrepresented among sufferers of
chronic pain
 Rated by psychologist as among most likely of all
types to have trouble in school
 Overrepresented among academically talented
elementary school students
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 Personal values include Home & family,
Friendships, Creativity, Learning, and Community
Service
 Commonly found in careers in counseling, teaching,
religion, and the arts
ENFP at Work
At work, the ENFP is concerned with using their creativity
to express themselves and benefit others. ENFPs want
to explore the possibilities for themselves and other
people, and approach their work with vision and
inspiration. They enjoy taking on creative or people-
centered problems that call for an imaginative, original
solution.
ENFPs are often motivated by their beliefs in
humanitarian causes and want work that is consistent
with their values. They are particularly interested in
helping other people develop as individuals. They tend to
choose careers that allow them to pursue ideals of
personal growth and artistic expression.
ENFPs dislike routine work and want a variety of tasks
and challenges. They prefer to set their own schedule
and chafe when saddled with excessive regulations or
mundane details. They seek out fun, novel tasks that
allow them to be imaginative and relate to other people in
an unstructured, supportive way.
The ideal work environment for an ENFP is relaxed and
friendly, with few restrictions on creativity. The ideal job
for an ENFP allows them to follow their inspiration, satisfy
their curiosity, and develop solutions that benefit people
in innovative and original ways.
Popular Careers for the ENFP
Actor; Musician; Dancer; Artist; Photographer; Clinical
Psychologist; Counselor; Career Coach; Psychiatric
Social Worker; Speech Pathologist; Public Relations
Specialist; HR Manager or Recruiter; Ad Account
Executive; Corporate Trainer; Event Coordinator
ENFP Communication Style
ENFPs are enthusiastic, collaborative communicators
who love exploring possibilites for people. They often
enjoy getting to know other people and understanding
what inspires them, and they are insightful about
solutions to personal problems. Highly empathic, the
ENFP can find something to identify with in almost every
person they meet, and enjoys encouraging other people
to develop and grow. ENFPs are typically optimistic and
like to talk about opportunities for the future, motivating
others to join them in their vision.
ENFPs as Partners
In relationships, the ENFP is warm, encouraging, and
emotionally engaged. ENFPs connect with others by
sharing their feelings and experiences. They are
expressive with their mates and want their mates to
share openly with them.
ENFPs place great importance on personal development;
they encourage their mates to pursue their dreams and
want the same encouragement back. They are accepting
of their partners as individuals and are unlikely to
pressure their partners into being or doing anything in
particular. On the rare occasion that they object to a
mate's behavior, it's likely to be because their values
have been violated.
Although they are quite sensitive, ENFPs can be guarded
when it comes to their deepest feelings. They dislike
conflict and are likely to withdraw rather than engage in a
difficult discussion. ENFPs are flexible and supportive,
and would rather find a way to connect than butt heads.
They are creative problem-solvers, and can often come
up with original ways to compromise.
ENFPs can sometimes be unpredictable, as they follow
their inspiration wherever it leads. They can seem
unreliable, although they are usually very responsive
when a partner is emotionally in need. The ideal mate for
an ENFP supports their creativity and caring for others,
and expresses appreciation for the ENFP's unique
qualities openly and often.
ENFPs as Parents
As parents, ENFPs are creative and devoted. They enjoy
creating new experiences for their families and want to
inspire their children to grow as individuals. Although they
can be very passionate in their ideas about correct
behavior, they are not often strong disciplinarians; they
value close relationships above all else and may avoid
discipline for fear that it will distance them from their
children.
ENFPs deeply value their role as parents. However, they
tire quickly when subjected to mundane chores and
demands from their children. They get the most joy out of
parenting when they are connecting emotionally with
their children and joining them to explore possibilities for
the future.
ENFP Type Dynamics
The core of the ENFP personality type is Extraverted
Intuition. This dominant function guides the way ENFPs
understand the world and take in information about their
surroundings. When using Extraverted Intuition, ENFPs
explore meaning and interpretations in the world around
them. They see possibilities everywhere, and scan their
environments for new people to connect with and
opportunities to explore.
The auxiliary function for ENFPs is Introverted Feeling.
This mental function supports their dominant Extraverted
33
Intuition to help them process information internally.
Using Introverted Feeling, ENFPs seek meaning and
truth in their internal emotional experience. They weigh
information they’ve taken in and find clarity based on
their personal values.
The tertiary Thinking function is less developed for most
ENFPs, especially early in life. When this function is not
well developed, ENFPs may have trouble using objective
logic in decision-making.
The inferior function for ENFPs, or that function which is
least likely to be conscious and well developed, is
Introverted Sensing. When this function is not developed,
ENFPs can have trouble retaining and recalling practical,
factual information, and may ignore aspects of their own
physical experience.
ENFP Under Stress
ENFPs may become stressed when they are forced to do
tasks which are repetitive or very detail oriented, or when
required to follow a process that doesn’t allow for
12.ENFJ
ENFJs are idealist organizers, driven to implement their
vision of what is best for humanity. They often act as
catalysts for human growth because of their ability to see
potential in other people and their charisma in
persuading others to their ideas. They are driven by
values and vision, and are passionate about the
possibilities for people.
ENFJs tune into the needs of others, and want to engage
to create an environment of support. They are concerned
with making people feel cared for and fostering their
growth. Their compassion is not reserved for the people
in their immediate vicinity: they are often humanitarian in
nature, and may feel genuine concern for the ills of the
entire human race.
ENFJs like to be liked and are very sensitive to feedback,
both positive and negative. They take criticism quite
personally. They expect the best not just from
themselves, but from others as well, and tend to idealize
relationships. Discovering that another person does not
have the ENFJ’s best interests at heart, or that their
intentions are not pure, is deeply upsetting to the ENFJ.
ENFJs have an intuitive sense of the emotional state of
others, and often act as an emotional barometer for the
people around them. They tend to personally experience
the feelings of others, and are highly motivated to create
harmony in their environments. Because they are so
tuned in to emotion, engaging with other people can
sometimes become overwhelming for the ENFJ. More
than other Extroverted types, they need time alone, away
from the demands of serving and caring for others.
creativity. Isolation is stressful for ENFPs; when they’re
deprived of energizing social contact, they may run out of
steam. Because ENFPs love new possibilities, they may
take on more projects than they can realistically follow
through with. ENFPs are a whirl of creative energy, and
may neglect their own basic needs for food, sleep, and
rest. Stress may result when the ENFP tries to put
energy into too many projects, and becomes physically
exhausted in the process.
When under stress, ENFPs are overtaken by their inferior
Sensing function. They often turn inward and become
obsessed with factual details. This can manifest as
pickiness or irritability, as they fixate on minor mistakes or
factual errors and become annoyed. The ENFP’s usual
flexibility can transform into compulsiveness or rigidity, as
they insist that everything be done the “right” way. The
ENFP’s inferior Sensing may also appear as a
heightened, fretful focus on their own bodies. This
uncharacteristic attention to the physical, coupled with
their emotional distress, leads to paranoia, as they
interpret every bodily sensation as the sign of a serious
illness.
ENFJ in the Population
ENFJ is one of the less common types in the population,
especially for men. Among men, ENFJ is the second
rarest type. ENFJs make up:
 3% of the general population
 3% of women
 2% of men
Popular Hobbies
Popular hobbies for the ENFJ include organizing social
events, reading, the arts, museums, storytelling, listening
to music, writing, and gourmet cooking.
Famous ENFJs
Famous ENFJs include Oprah Winfrey, Pope John Paul
II, Margaret Mead, Ralph Nader, Abraham Maslow, Dr.
Phil McGraw, and Martin Luther King, Jr.
Research on ENFJ
Interesting facts about the ENFJ:
 On personality trait scales, scored as Active,
Pleasant, Sociable, Demanding, Impatient,
Appreciative, and Compromising
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  Most likely of all types to cope with stress by
exercising
 Most likely of all types to believe in a higher
spiritual power
 Ranked by psychologists as among least likely
to have trouble in school
 Personal values include Friendships, Education
& Learning, Creativity, and Community Service
 Among types highest in job satisfaction, but
also among most likely to report plans to leave
their jobs
 Commonly found in careers in religion,
teaching, and the arts
ENFJ at Work
At work, the ENFJ is motivated to organize others to
implement positive change. ENFJs are enthusiastic
problem-solvers, especially when they can put their
strong intuition about people to good use.
ENFJs strive for cooperation and work best in a
harmonious environment where they can support other
people and encourage their growth. They often take on a
mentor role, seeing their primary aim as helping other
people become better at what they do.
ENFJs are often attracted to leadership roles; they
naturally organize people to take advantage of their
unique talents. They often have a strong vision in their
work, and enjoy being able to use their creativity to
develop innovative initiatives with a humanitarian focus.
ENFJs appreciate teamwork, and they want to have the
organizational resources to put their ideas into action.
The ideal work environment for an ENFJ is forward-
thinking and people-centered, with a clear humanitarian
mission and an emphasis on constructive action. The
ideal job for an ENFJ allows them to develop and
implement ideas that improve the circumstances and
well-being of other people.
Popular Careers for the ENFJ
Top careers for the ENFJ include:
Journalist; Interpreter; Editor; Minister; Elementary
Teacher; Event Coordinator; Public Relations Manager;
HR Manager or Recruiter; Corporate Trainer; Public
Relations Specialist; Social Worker; Physical Therapist;
Speech Pathologist; Nutritionist; Clinical Psychologist
ENFJ Communication Style
ENFJs are warm, compassionate communicators who
show enthusiasm for other people and their ideas. They
want to understand what is important to others so that
they can take action to improve the situation for all
involved. ENFJs readily give affirmation and support,
making sure that people know that their ideas are valued.
They are good at connecting with a variety of people and
creative in coming up with solutions that accommodate
others’ needs. They are often natural teachers and
mentors, showing others the way and helping them to
improve themselves.
ENFJs as Partners
In relationships, the ENFJ is helpful and enthusiastically
supportive. They are motivated to understand their
partners and to do what pleases them, and are sensitive
the the emotions and reactions of their mates.
ENFJs make great cheerleaders, and will encourage
their partners to develop and explore their potential. They
are engaged and ready to help, and look for opportunities
to support their mates in their accomplishments.
ENFJ partners want harmony above all else, sometimes
at the expense of their own needs. Conflict is upsetting to
ENFJs, and they often avoid it. ENFJs are very sensitive
to criticism and can become highly emotional and even
punishing when their feelings are hurt. However, they
have great insight about people, emotions and
motivations; they are often able to put this talent to use in
resolving things.
The ideal mate for an ENFJ appreciates their
compassion, support, and dedication to helping others,
and makes an effort to understand the ENFJ's feelings
and values.
ENFJs as Parents
As parents, ENFJs take an active and enthusiastic role in
guiding the development of their children. They enjoy
teaching their children the ways of the world, and set
forth clear ideas of right and wrong in a warm and
supportive way.
ENFJs have high expectations for their children, and
often envision bright futures for them. They have an
interest in their children's potential and want to inspire
them to develop it. They can sometimes idealize their
children, becoming disappointed when they don't live up
to expectations. They may take their children's
misbehavior personally, feeling that they have failed to
instill their own strong values.
ENFJ Type Dynamics
The core of the ENFJ personality type is Extraverted
Feeling. This dominant function guides the way ENFJs
evaluate information and structure the world around
them. Using Extraverted Feeling, the ENFJ seeks to
create harmonious relationships and foster collaboration.
35
 They tune into the needs and potential
of the people around them and
organize the environment to help
others cooperate and develop.
The auxiliary function for ENFJs is
Introverted Intuition. This mental
function supports their dominant
Extraverted Feeling to help them
contemplate meaning and explore
ideas internally. Using Introverted
Intuition, the ENFJ reflects on their
impressions of other people and
makes inferences about their needs.
They seek to gain insight into the
people around them so that they may
understand their potential.
The tertiary Sensing function is less
developed for most ENFJs, especially early in life. When
this function is not well developed, ENFJs may have
trouble noticing immediate realities and facts about the
present moment.
The inferior function for ENFJs, or that function which is
least likely to be conscious and well developed, is
Introverted Thinking. When this function is not developed,
ENFJs can have trouble evaluating circumstances using
their own objective reasoning.
13.INTJ
INTJs are analytical problem-solvers, eager to improve
systems and processes with their innovative ideas. They
have a talent for seeing possibilities for improvement,
whether at work, at home, or in themselves.
INTJs have a hunger for knowledge and strive to
constantly increase their competence; they are often
perfectionists with extremely high standards of
performance for themselves and others. They tend to
have a keen interest in self-improvement and are lifelong
learners, always looking to add to their base of
information and awareness.
INTJs live in a world of abstraction and theory, and may
sometimes be absentminded in their preoccupation with
concepts. Often intellectual, they enjoy analysis and
complex problem-solving, and are much less comfortable
with the illogical and unpredictable nature of other people
and their emotions. They may not want to bother with
people who they do not perceive to be their intellectual
equals.
INTJs are perceptive about systems and strategy, and
often understand the world as a chess board to be
navigated. They want to understand how systems work,
and how events proceed: the INTJ often has a unique
ability to foresee logical outcomes. They enjoy applying
ENFJ Under Stress
ENFJs often become stressed in environments of
persistent conflict. They are closely in tune with the
feelings of others and the overall emotional climate;
when this is disturbed, the ENFJ feels it. Personal
attacks and criticism are especially stressful for the
ENFJ. ENFJs want to be liked and find it difficult to deal
with others who have misunderstood them or judged
them as incompetent. ENFJs want cooperation and enjoy
teamwork. If they are forced to deal with a problem in
isolation, a stress response often follows.
Stress reactions in ENFJs often manifest as a tendency
to be critical or lash out at others. Because the ENFJ’s
inferior function is Thinking, they are not accustomed to
delivering objective critique, and their evaluations of
others may be overly harsh, blunt, and hurtful. Their
normally enthusiastic manner may transform into
withdrawal, as they insist that others do not understand
them. ENFJs under stress can become judgmental,
seizing on irelevant facts to justify their severe
evaluations of themselves and others. They may focus
on the idea that there is one logical answer to their
problems, and get stuck in futile efforts to arrive at an
objective solution. They often search through books or
consult with experts in an attempt to discover the “truth.”
themselves to a project or idea in depth, and putting in
concentrated effort to achieve their goals.
INTJ in the Population
INTJ is the third rarest type in the population, and the
rarest type among women (with ENTJ). INTJs make up:
 2% of the general population
 3% of men
 1% of women
Popular Hobbies
Popular hobbies for the INTJ include reading, cultural
events, taking classes, appreciating art, computers and
video games, and independent sports such as swimming,
backpacking, or running marathons.
Famous INTJs
36
Famous INTJs include Hillary Clinton, Al Gore, Bill Gates,
Dwight Eisenhower, Alan Greenspan, Ulysses S. Grant,
Stephen Hawking, John Maynard Keynes, Ayn Rand,
Isaac Asimov, Lewis Carroll, Cormac McCarthy, and Sir
Isaac Newton.
Research on INTJ
Interesting facts about the INTJ:
 On personality trait measures, score as
Discreet, Industrious, Logical, Deliberate, Self-
Confident, and Methodical
 Among types least likely to suffer heart disease
and cardiac problems
 Least likely of all the types to believe in a
higher spiritual power
 One of two types with highest college GPA
 Among types with highest income
 Personal values include Achievement
 Of all types, least likely to state that they value
Home/family, Financial security, Relationships
& friendships, and Community service
 Overrepresented among MBA students and
female small business owners
 Commonly found in scientific or technical fields,
computer occupations, and legal professions
INTJ at Work
At work, the INTJ excels at creating and implementing
innovative solutions to analytical problems. They
naturally see possibilities for improvement within complex
systems and are organized and determined in
implementing their ideas for change.
INTJs are comfortable with abstraction and theory but
gain the most satisfaction from turning their ideas into
reality. They often enjoy working independently or with a
small team, taking measured, strategic steps to
implement change.
INTJs enjoy working with logical systems that they can
understand in depth. They enjoy the challenge of
comprehending complex ideas, and want to understand
how they can improve the way things work.
The ideal work environment for an INTJ is logical,
efficient, structured, and analytical, with colleagues that
are competent, intelligent, and productive. The ideal job
for a Mastermind allows them to use their analytical skills
to problem-solve in a challenging environment, and to
take responsibility for implementing their ideas to create
efficient, innovative systems.
Popular Careers for the INTJ
Top careers for the INTJ include:
Computer Programmer; Database Administrator;
Software Developer; Systems Analyst; Computer
Animator; Environmental Engineer; Civil Engineer;
Environmental Scientist; Astronomer; Pharmaceutical
Researcher; Attorney; Judge; News Analyst; Architect;
Financial Planner
INTJ Communication Style
INTJs are direct and detached in their communication.
They often naturally see how something could be done
better and usually communicate their criticism in a
straightforward, logical manner. They are typically
independent and calm; they are not so much concerned
about being liked or appreciated as they are with being
competent and thoughtful. Their communications are
typically well thought-out, insightful, and strategic. They
often plan well into the future and offer big-picture
analysis for improving systems.
INTJs as Partners
In relationships, the INTJ is loyal but independent. INTJs
can be almost scientific in choosing a mate and make
devoted partners once they have found a match that fits
their rigorous list of requirements. They often have clear
ideas about what makes for a solid relationship and are
unwavering in their pursuit of this ideal.
INTJs often have a passion for self-improvement and are
encouraging of their partners' goals and intellectual
pursuits. However, they do not usually see the need for
frivolous affection or romance, feeling that their devotion
should be evident. They are more focused on serving
their partners with hard work and resourceful problem-
solving than they are on showering them with attention.
INTJs' partners often find them difficult to read, and
indeed they do not show emotion easily; they find the
process of discussing emotions much too messy and
disorganized. They enjoy solving difficult problems, but
are often out of their depth when it comes to illogical,
unpredictable personal issues.
INTJs value a partner that allows them the independence
to achieve their goals, and one who appreciates their
efficacy, insight, and ability to offer creative solutions to
problems.
INTJs as Parents
As parents, INTJs are devoted and supportive. They set
firm limits and provide consistent reinforcement, but
37
within that structure allow a lot of latitude for their
children to explore their own interests and potential. They
are encouraging of their childrens' intellectual pursuits
and enthusiastic about sharing knowledge.
INTJs enjoy the process of developing a young mind,
and get a lot of satisfaction from parenting. They want to
develop productive, competent, and self-sufficient
children who think for themselves.
INTJ Type Dynamics
The core of the INTJ personality type is Introverted
Intuition. This dominant function guides the way INTJs
make sense of things and explore information in their
own minds. Using Intoverted Intuition, the INTJ
contemplates connections and make sense of patterns.
The reflect on their intepretations to develop insight and
understanding and to create a clear vision for the future.
The auxiliary function for INTJs is Extraverted Thinking.
This mental function supports their dominant Introverted
Intuition to help them evaluate information and options in
the world around them. When using Extraverted
Thinking, the INTJ seeks to order their environment to
bring logic to systems and processes. They analyze the
options objectively and communicate ideas clearly.
The tertiary Feeling function is less
developed for most INTJs, especially
early in life. When this function is not
well developed, INTJs may have
trouble tuning into values and
considering the impact of decisions
on people.
14.INTP
INTPs are philosophical innovators,
fascinated by logical analysis,
systems, and design. They are
preoccupied with theory, and search
for the universal law behind
everything they see. They want to understand the
workings of the universe, in all their complexity.
INTPs are detached, analytical observers who can seem
oblivious to the world around them because they are so
deeply absorbed in thought. They spend much of their
time focused internally: exploring concepts, making
connections, and seeking understanding. To the
Architect, life is an ongoing inquiry into the mysteries of
the world around them.
The INTP is typically non-traditional, and more likely to
reason out their own unconventional way of doing things
than to follow the crowd. INTPs are merciless about
analyzing ideas and beliefs, and hold little sacred. They
are often baffled by other people who remain loyal to
beliefs that don't make logical sense.
The inferior function for INTJs, or that function which is
least likely to be conscious and well developed, is
Extraverted Sensing. When this function is not
developed, INTJs may ignore the importance of details in
their environment, and may overlook aspects of current
reality which conflict with their vision.
INTJ Under Stress
INTJs often become stressed when working with large
amounts of detailed information. Activities such as
bookkeeping or tedious, detail-oriented household tasks
often bring on a stress response in INTJs. INTJs need
plenty of private time and space to analyze and process
thoughts. Being constantly surrounded by people,
especially those they can’t share ideas with, can cause
the INTJ stress. INTJs may be stressed by situations that
restrict their creativity. They want to have freedom to
solve problems innovatively, and being limited by rigid
structure often brings stress.
A stress response in the INTJ often manifests as an
uncomfortable focus on the external environment.
Because the INTJ’s inferior function is Sensing, they are
unaccustomed to attending to the details in the world
around them. When their focus turns to external sensory
experience, this attention often feels stressful and
overstimulating. The INTJ may worry that the physical
environment will fail them: that objects will break or go
missing, or that resources will be inadequate. They may
obsessively organize in an attempt to control their
environments. Stress can also show itself through a
tendency to overindulge in sensual pleasures: eating,
drinking, or watching television.
INTPs present a cool exterior but are passionate about
reason, analysis, and innovation. They seek to create
complex systems of understanding to unify the principles
they've observed in their environments. Their minds are
complicated and active, and they will go to great mental
lengths trying to devise ingenious solutions to interesting
problems.
INTP in the Population
INTP is one of the less common types in the population,
especially for women. Among women, INTP is the fourth
rarest type (after INTJ, ENTJ, and INFJ). INTPs make up:
 3% of the general population
 5% of men
 2% of women
Popular Hobbies
38
Popular leisure activities for an INTP include reading, art
and cultural events, chess and other strategy games,
writing, taking classes, working with computers,
backpacking, hiking, and meditation.
Famous INTPs
Famous INTPs include Albert Einstein, Thomas
Jefferson, Rene Descartes, Charles Darwin, Marie Curie,
C.G. Jung, Socrates, and Abraham Lincoln.
Research on INTP
 On personality trait measures, score as Candid,
Ingenious, Complicated, Independent, and
Rebellious
 More likely than other types to study a foreign
language
 Most frequent type among college students
committing alcohol and drug policy violations
 Have lowest level of coping resources of all the
types (with ISTPs)
 One of types least likely to believe in a higher
spiritual power
 Highest of all types in career dissatisfaction (with
INFPs)
 In school, have lower grades than would be
predicted from aptitude scores
 More likely than average to complete engineering
programs
 Personal values include Autonomy, Freedom, and
Independence
 Overrepresented among working MBA students
 Commonly found in science and technical
occupations
INTP at Work
At work, the INTP is motivated to solve complex
problems in an original, innovative way. Architects want
to analyze systems and ideas thoroughly to create deep
understanding, and enjoy designing creative solutions to
highly abstract problems.
INTPs rarely have much interest in organizational
traditions, preferring to forge their own path to innovation.
They hate being limited by bureaucracy and rules, and
are often more in tune with the theoretical soundness of
their ideas than they are with the practical applications.
They typically prefer to focus on creating the idea, and to
leave the tedious details of implementation to someone
else.
INTPs work best independently or with a small team of
colleagues that they perceive as smart, competent, and
logical. They quickly tire of colleagues who are
aggressive or overbearing, and can be dismissive of
people who aren't as clever as themselves.
An ideal organization for an INTP is flexible and non-
traditional, and values ingenuity over conformity. An ideal
job for an INTP allows them to address complex
theoretical or technical problems with creative, novel
solutions.
Popular Careers for the INTP
Software Developer; Animator; Graphic Designer;
Internet Architect; Systems Analyst; News Analyst;
Editor; Producer or Director; Architect; College
Professor; Chemist; Microbiologist; Geologist; Physicist;
Historian
INTP Communication Style
INTPs can be insightful communicators, when the subject
inspires them. Thoughtful and independent, they may not
have a great need for conversation, but when discussing
complex concepts or innovative ideas they can become
quite intense and display a wealth of information and
insight. Logical and analytical, they can weigh
possibilities endlessly and are great at playing devil’s
advocate. They love to pick apart ideas but are not
convinced by anything but the most rational of analyses;
they can spot a flaw in logic a mile away, and rarely
hesitate to point it out.
INTPs as Partners
INTPs are independent and clever partners. They enjoy
engaging intellectually and want an intelligent partner
who can match their ability to think critically.
INTPs have little appetite for the mundane aspects of life,
and may disregard the usual rituals of a relationship.
They are rarely interested in tradition, preferring instead
to design a lifestyle that makes sense for the parties
involved—even if it looks highly unconventional to other
people. They are tolerant of individual preferences but
will rarely do something because they are told they
"should."
INTPs tend to analyze the theory behind everything, and
may interpret human interactions with the detached logic
of a psychological researcher. They may find others
difficult to deal with when they cannot understand the
logic behind their behavior. When things get too
emotional, they may retreat to their own world of
thoughts and ideas.
39
INTPs want plenty of space in a relationship to explore
their own thoughts, ideas, and interests. They value a
partner that appreciates their ingenuity and problem-
solving ability, and one that understands their need for
autonomy.
INTPs as Parents
As parents, INTPs encourage competence and
independent problem solving. They often do not tune in
easily to their children's feelings, but will enthusiastically
help them to reason out a complex dilemma.
INTPs are usually involved in their own projects or ideas
and typically do not take much pleasure in the mundane,
day-to-day tasks of caring for children. As a result, the
Architect parent may sometimes seem distant to their
children, but their true delight in parenting is in sharing
exciting ideas and concepts with young minds.
INTP Type Dynamics
The core of the INTP personality type is Introverted
Thinking. This dominant function guides the way INTPs
make sense of things in their own internal mental
process. Using Introverted Thinking, they seek orderly,
systematic and logical thinking. They reflect to create
rational understanding within their own minds.
The auxiliary function for INTPs is Extraverted Intuition.
This mental function supports their dominant Introverted
Thinking to help them take in information about the world
around them. Using Extraverted Intuition, INTPs analyze
meaning and connections in the world
around them. They scan their
environments for new ideas and
possibilities for innovation.
The tertiary Sensing function is less
developed for most INTPs, especially
15.ENTP
ENTPs are inspired innovators,
motivated to find new solutions to
intellectually challenging problems.
They are curious and clever, and seek
to comprehend the people, systems,
and principles that surround them.
Open-minded and easygoing, Visionaries want to
understand other people: their motivations, behavior, and
ideas—without applying judgment.
ENTPs are masters of re-inventing the wheel and often
refuse to do a task the same way twice. They question
norms and often ignore them altogether. Established
procedures are uninspiring to the Visionary, who would
much rather try a new method (or two) than go along with
the standard.
early in life. When this function is not well developed,
they may have trouble noticing present realities and facts
about the physical world.
The inferior function for INTPs, or that function which is
least likely to be conscious and well developed, is
Extraverted Feeling. When this function is not developed,
they can have trouble noticing the emotional experience
of other people and considering their needs.
INTP Under Stress
INTPs may become stressed in situations where they are
not able to separate themselves from others to analyze
and reflect. The Architect recharges by turning inward,
and when they are deprived of this private time and
space, stress often follows. INTPs are particularly
stressed by dealing with other people who are highly
emotional. They tend not to understand strong emotions
and feel helpless to deal with them. They often chafe in
very traditional or structured environments; feeling a lack
of flexibility or limitations on their options, INTPs often
react with stress.
A stress response in INTPs often manifests as an
uncharacteristic inability to focus and analyze. They may
become lost in a myriad of details and become confused.
Their usual grip on logic turns unpredictable, and they
may focus obsessively on insignificant data. Because the
INTP’s inferior function is Feeling, they will often find
themselves increasingly sensitive to others when under
stress. They often feel rejected and unloved, noticing
even the smallest slights. INTPs under stress often
experience emotional states which are unfamiliar to
them, and may express their feelings in unpredictable
outbursts.
ENTPs enjoy engaging others in debate, and can be
perceived as argumentative due to their love of critical
analysis. They are the classic devil's advocate, rarely
married to one position and able to argue anything
convincingly. They like to maintain the upper hand, and
often do, thanks to their ability to quickly respond to
another's ideas and behavior.
ENTPs are energized by challenge and are often inspired
by a problem that others perceive as impossible to solve.
They are confident in their ability to think creatively, and
may assume that others are too tied to tradition to see a
new way. The Visionary relies on their ingenuity to deal
with the world around them, and rarely finds preparation
necessary. They will often jump into a new situation and
trust themselves to adapt as they go.
40
ENTP in the Population
ENTP is one of the rarer types in the population. ENTPs
make up:
 3% of the general population
 4% of men
 2% of women
Popular Hobbies
Popular hobbies for the ENTP include continuing
education, writing, art appreciation, playing sports,
computers and video games, travel, and cultural events.
Famous ENTPs
Famous ENTPs include Walt Disney, Thomas Edison,
Lewis Carroll, Alfred Hitchcock, John Malkovich, Nikola
Tesla, “Weird Al” Yankovic, Benjamin Franklin, and
Richard Feynman.
Research on ENTP
Interesting facts about the ENTP:
 On personality trait scales, scored as
Enterprising, Friendly, Resourceful,
Headstrong, Self-Centered, and Independent
 Least likely of all types to suffer heart disease
and hypertension
 Least likely of all types to report stress
associated with family and health
 Scored among highest of all types in available
resources for coping with stress
 Overrepresented among those with Type A
behavior
 Among highest of all types on measures of
creativity
 One of two types most frequent among
violators of college alcohol policy
 Among types most dissatisfied with their work,
despite being among the types with highest
income
 Commonly found in careers in science,
management, technology, and the arts
ENTP at Work
At work, the ENTP is concerned with applying innovative
solutions to challenging problems to improve the
efficiency and effectiveness of systems. ENTPs often
take an entrepreneurial approach to their work and they
prefer to approach tasks in a casual and unstructured
way, with few limitations on their ingenuity.
ENTPs prize competency and often want to be the
expert. They enjoy work that demands continual
improvement in their knowledge and skills. They value
power, and want a career that allows them contact with
powerful people and the opportunity to increase their own
influence.
ENTPs are idea people, and chafe at routine. They get
bored very quickly when required to repeat a task or
attend to details. They do best when their work is highly
conceptual, and allows them to solve problems creatively
without having to think through the details.
The ideal work environment for an ENTP is intellectually
challenging without being rigid, with creative and
intelligent coworkers. The ideal job for an ENTP allows
them to put their creativity to work developing innovative
ideas, while allowing them to delegate responsiblity for
the tedious details of implementation to others.
Popular Careers for the ENTP
Top careers for the ENTP include:
 Executive; Entrepreneur; HR Recruiter;
Management Consultant; Marketing Manager;
Public Relations Specialist; Reporter;
Copywriter; Art Director; Producer or Director;
Architect; Industrial Designer; Urban Planner;
Industrial Engineer; Environmental Scientist
ENTP Communication Style
ENTPs are lively and agile communicators who speak in
terms of the “big idea.” They like to explore possibilities
and make connections with the information they receive.
ENTPs love innovative solutions and are enthusiastic
about change, but they are also highly analytical and will
not hesitate to criticize ideas that don’t hold up to their
logical analysis. ENTPs can be hard to keep up with in
conversation; they like to play with lots of complex ideas
and have little patience for explaining details.
ENTPs as Partners
In relationships, the ENTP is inventive, enthusiastic, and
spontaneous. ENTPs are often exciting partners, full of
ideas for new things to explore together.
ENTPs prize their ability to understand others and
communicate effectively, and have an ongoing interest in
improving themselves and their relationships. They want
41
to know how their partners' minds work, and are creative
in coming up with solutions to interpersonal problems.
ENTPs like to encourage their mates to pursue their
ambitions. However, they may be competitive or even
argumentative; they enjoy a good debate for its own
sake. They typically need a partner who is emotionally
resilient and doesn't take offense at their intellectual
challenges.
ENTPs can be unreliable as they follow their inspiration,
wherever it may lead. They have little interest in order or
routine, and may neglect mundane household chores as
they pursue more stimulating activities. The ideal mate
for an ENTP appreciates their ingenuity, competence,
and perceptiveness, and supports them in their ever-
changing interests, schemes, and social pursuits.
ENTPs as Parents
As parents, ENTPs are concerned with developing their
children as independent thinkers. They are fun-loving
parents who want to give their children many
experiences to help their young minds expand and grow.
More interested in challenging their children intellectually
than caring for their physical needs, the ENTP is inclined
to leave the day-to-day details of childrearing up to
another parent if possible.
Although ENTP parents may be distracted from their
families when other interests capture their attention, they
derive great joy from offering their children many and
varied opportunities to develop.
ENTP Type Dynamics
The core of the ENTP personality type is Extraverted
Intuition. This dominant function guides the way ENTPs
understand the world and take in information about their
surroundings. When using Extraverted Intuition, ENTPs
explore meaning and interpretations in the world around
them. They see possibilities everywhere, and scan their
environments for new ideas and people to experience.
16.ENTJ
ENTJs are strategic leaders, motivated to organize
change. They are quick to see inefficiency and
conceptualize new solutions, and enjoy developing long-
range plans to accomplish their vision. They excel at
logical reasoning and are usually articulate and quick-
witted.
ENTJs are engaged with the world around them, and
want to make sense of it. They have a clear sense of
order and want to organize people and processes to
progress in a logical manner. When there are flaws in a
system, the ENTJ sees them, and enjoys the process of
discovering and implementing a better way.
The auxiliary function for ENTPs is Introverted Thinking.
This mental function supports their dominant Extraverted
Intuition to help them process and evaluate information
internally. Using Introverted Thinking, ENTPs seek
orderly, systematic and logical thinking. They reflect to
create rational understanding within their own minds.
The tertiary Feeling function is less developed for most
ENTPs, especially early in life. When this function is not
well developed, ENTPs may have trouble tuning into
values and considering the impact of decisions on
people.
The inferior function for ENTPs, or that function which is
least likely to be conscious and well developed, is
Introverted Sensing. When this function is not developed,
ENTPs can have trouble retaining and recalling practical,
detailed information, and may ignore aspects of their
physical experience.
ENTP Under Stress
ENTPs can become stressed when they are forced to
spend too much time alone, focusing on details, or doing
repetitive tasks that don’t engage their imagination.
Because ENTPs love taking on new projects, they may
commit themselves to exciting opportunities than they
can’t realistically follow through on. When the ENTP fully
acknowledges the time and energy required to turn their
many ideas into reality, or realizes that they must
complete mundane detail work in pursuit of their goals, a
stress response often follows.
When under stress, ENTPs are affected by their inferior
Sensing function. They often turn inward and feel isolated
and unloved. They may seem picky or irritable, as they
fixate on minor errors or other people’s oversights. They
are prone to obsess about details and may grasp on to a
single fact, insisting that it is of utmost significance. The
ENTP’s inferior Sensing may also appear as an
uncharacteristic focus on their own bodies. Because this
inward sensory focus is unfamiliar to the ENTP, they
often misinterpret physical sensations and can become
hypochondriacal.
ENTJs are often very motivated by success in their
careers and enjoy hard work. They are typically
ambitious and interested in gaining power and influence.
To the ENTJ, decision-making is a vocation. They want to
be in a position to make the call and put plans into
motion.
ENTJs tend to be blunt and decisive. Driven to get things
done, they can sometimes be critical or brusque in the
pursuit of a goal. They are typically friendly and outgoing,
although they may not pick up on emotional subleties in
other people. They often love working with others toward
a common goal, but may not find time to attend to their
42
feelings. They are focused on results and want to be
productive, competent, and influential.
ENTJ in the Population
ENTJ is one of the least common types in the population,
and the rarest type among women (with INTJ). ENTJs
make up:
 2% of the general population
 3% of men
 1% of women
Popular Hobbies
Popular hobbies for ENTJs include taking leadership
positions in community groups, attending social
gatherings or sporting events, and playing competitive
sports. Because ENTJs are so often focused on their
careers, they may have few interests outside of work, or
they may participate in leisure activities that also help to
further their careers.
Famous ENTJs
Famous ENTJs include Margaret Thatcher, Bill Gates,
Napoleon Bonaparte, Carl Sagan, General Norman
Schwarzkopf, David Letterman, Douglas MacArthur,
Harrison Ford, and Quentin Tarantino.
Research on ENTJ
Interesting facts about the ENTJ:
 On personality trait measures, score as Ambitious,
Forceful, Optimistic, Egotistical, Adaptable, and
Energetic
 Least likely of all types to report stress resulting
from work or finances
 More likely than average to suffer cardiac problems
 Among the least likely of all types to believe in a
higher spiritual power
 Among top 4 types in college GPA
 Among most likely to stay in college
 Personal values include Home/Family, Achievement,
Creativity, and Learning
 Overrepresented among MBA students and small
business owners
 One of two types most likely to be satisfied with their
work
ENTJ at Work
ENTJs are drawn to leadership positions that allow them
to develop strategies to achieve greater efficiency and
productivity. They prefer to be in management or
supervisory roles, and want the ability to initiate and lead
organizational change.
ENTJs enjoy the challenge of solving difficult problems,
and enjoy understanding complex systems so that they
can determine where improvement is possible. ENTJs
naturally see opportunities to improve systems, and want
to lead teams to carry out their vision. They appreciate an
environment where innovation is encouraged, and where
traditions are not held sacred.
ENTJs want structure in their work. They prefer that their
work and that of their colleagues be evaluated based on
a set of clear guidelines. They appreciate an environment
that is businesslike and fair, where performance is
evaluated objectively and rewarded generously. ENTJs
are typically motivated and hardworking, and want to be
recognized for their efforts with money, power, and
prestige.
An ideal organization for an ENTJ values competence
and logical thinking, and includes coworkers who are
intelligent and ambitious. An ideal job for an ENTJ is one
that challenges them to address complex problems with
strategic planning and clear goal-setting.
Popular Careers for the ENTJ
Executive; Sales Manager; Corporate Trainer; Project
Manager; Sales Engineer; Urban Planner; Public
Administrator; Architect; Attorney; Economist; Civil
Engineer; Environmental Engineer; Database
Administrator; Systems Analyst; Biomedical Engineer
ENTJ Communication Style
ENTJs are direct and commanding communicators, often
with a clear idea of what needs to be done and and a
take-charge attitude toward organizing people and
projects. ENTJs are organized and strategic in their
thinking. They communicate their vision and their plan to
implement it in a logical, task-oriented way. ENTJs see
flaw in ideas and plans quickly and give critique freely.
They enjoy analyzing ideas, but are ultimately oriented
toward action; they want to integrate information,
formulate a long-term plan, and then move forward.
ENTJs as Partners
In relationships, the ENTJ is a commanding and
challenging partner. ENTJs have high expectations for
themselves and for their partners, and want a mate who
43
will put in the time and effort necessary to create a
successful life together.
ENTJs prefer to have their homes and lives structured
and organized, and may be domineering in imposing this
structure on others. They tend to have a clear idea of
how things should be done, and may feel that others
should follow.
ENTJs are enthusiastic and analytical problem-solvers,
and will approach conflict head-on. They are unemotional
in sorting out issues, and weigh perspectives with a
logical detachment. They may neglect to attend to their
partner's feelings, preferring to arrive at conclusions with
objective logic. They can also have trouble listening
patiently, because of their strong desire to problem-solve.
ENTJs are typically ambitious and may spend a lot of
time at work or otherwise pursuing career success. They
often need a partner who is independent and supportive
of their goals. ENTJs value a partner who respects and
appreciates their competence, intelligence, and
effectiveness.
ENTJs as Parents
As parents, ENTJs are in control of their children and
their households. ENTJs set clear expectations and see
that their rules are followed. They tend to be consistent
and rational disciplinarians by setting clear
consequences for misbehavior, and usually elicit
obedience from their children.
ENTJs often have a strong focus on career, and so may
spend limited time at home and with family. However,
they place great importance on the task of being a
competent and effective parent. They often ensure that
what time they do spend with their children is well used,
and allows them to instill values of hard work,
productivity, and achievement.
ENTJ Type Dynamics
The core of the ENTJ personality type is Extraverted
Thinking. This dominant function guides the way ENTJs
evaluate information and approach the world around
them. Using Extraverted Thinking, ENTJs seek to create
logical systems in their environments. They set goals,
ISTJ - The "Examiner"
ISTJs are responsible, loyal and hard working. They have
an acute sense of right and wrong and work hard at
preserving established norms and traditions. Because of
their deep sense of duty they are dedicated to everything
make objective decisions, and communicate clear plans
of action.
The auxiliary function for ENTJs is Introverted Intuition.
This mental function supportys their dominant
Extraverted Thinking to help them contemplate
possibilites and explore systems of thought. Using
Introverted Intuition, the ENTJ considers connections and
makes sense of patterns, and seeks to develop insight
and understanding.
The tertiary Sensing function is less developed for most
ENTJs, especially early in life. When this function is not
well developed, ENTJs may have trouble thinking
through the details and steps required by their plans.
The inferior function for ENTJs, or that function which is
least likely to be conscious and well developed, is
Introverted Feeling. When this function is not developed,
the ENTJ may have difficulty measuring events and
outcomes against their personal values.
ENTJ Under Stress
ENTJs may become stressed when dealing with people
who are very emotional or irrational. Typically analytical
and candid, ENTJs tend to offer criticism freely, and may
be stressed when other people react emotionally to their
critiques. ENTJs want others to behave rationally and
efficiently, and can become frustrated if they are required
to work with people who are incompetent or unmotivated.
They want to take charge and organize a plan of action,
and when this drive is thwarted by others’ irrational
personal issues, ENTJs often find themselves stressed.
Stress reactions in ENTJs often manifest as a loss in
productivity, as the ENTJ loses sight of important goals
and becomes preoccupied with insignificant tasks.
Because the ENTJ’s inferior function is Feeling, they will
often find themselves consumed with unfamiliar emotions
when under stress. They may become hypersensitive to
criticism and feel unappreciated or excluded. Because
the ENTJ is typically ruled by logic, the sense of being
driven by emotions is unfamiliar; they may feel
embarrassed that they cannot stay in control. They will
tend to try to keep their difficulties private, but may
experience emotional outbursts when they are no longer
able to contain their feelings.
they do and are very dependable. ISTJs care deeply for
those closest to them.
About The ISTJ
"ISTJs are often called inspectors. They have a keen
sense of right and wrong, especially in their area of
interest and/or responsibility. They are noted for
devotion to duty. Punctuality is a watchword of the ISTJ.
44
The secretary, clerk, or business(wo)man by whom Introverted Sensing; Extraverted Thinking;
others set their clocks is likely to be an ISTJ." Introverted Feeling; Extraverted Intuition

-ISTJ Profile (TypeLogic) Real ISTJ People

"ISTJs are very loyal, faithful, and dependable. They
place great importance on honesty and integrity. They  Andrew Johnson - American President
are "good citizens" who can be depended on to do the
right thing for their families and communities. While they  Benjamin Harrison - American President
generally take things very seriously, they also usually
have an offbeat sense of humor and can be a lot of fun  Evander Holyfield - boxer
- especially at family or work-related gatherings."
 George H. W. Bush - American President
- Portrait of an ISTJ (The Personality Page)
 George Washington - American President
"...characterized by decisiveness in practical affairs, are
the guardians of institutions, and if only one adjective  Harry Truman - American President
could be selected, "super dependable" would best
describe them."  Herbert Hoover - American President

- The Portrait of the Inspector Guardian (Keirsey)  Jack Webb - actor, producer
"...private, does not appreciate strangeness, not
 Jackie Joyner-Kersee - athlete (heptathlon)
adventurous, not spontaneous, follows the rules..."

- Jung Type Descriptions (ISTJ) (similarminds.com)  Queen Elizabeth II - Queen of England

 Thomas - Christ's Apostle

"At work, ISTJs get things done on a timely basis. They
honor deadlines, and they believe in thoroughness. A  Warren Buffet - investor, businessman
half-finished job is not a job well done. They established
procedures and schedules, and are uncomfortable with Fictional ISTJs (Characters)
those who do not do the same. ISTJs put duty before
pleasure. As long as they can fulfill their responsibilities,  Bruce Wayne - Batman Begins
they feel useful and thereby satisfied. Their work does
not have to be fun, but it has to count toward something  Darth Vader - Star Wars
productive. ISTJs believe that vacations are something
that one takes only when work has been accomplished;  Eeyore - Winnie the Pooh
thus, at times they do not take vacations even when they
could and should."  Puddleglum - Chronicles of Narnia

- ISTJ - The Reliant (Lifexplore) ISTJ Career

DETAILS ISTJs are often happy with the following jobs which tend
to match well with the Examiner/Protector personality.
Preferences

I ntroverted; S ensing; T hinking; J udging

 Accountant  Lawyer/Attorney
Temperament
SJ (Protector)  Auditor  Military Leader

ISTJ Population  Administrator  Mechanical

Engineer
Total: 8.5%; Male: 10.5%; Female: 6.5%  Computer
Specialist  Math Teacher
Primary; Secondary; Tertiary; Least
Function
 Computer  Marketer

45

Programmer  Manager
 Doctor  Police
 Detective  Scientist
 Dentist  Systems Analyst
 Executive  Steelworker
 Electrician  Technician
 Financial Officer  Technical
Specialist
 Judge
 Librarian
ISTP - The "Craftsman"
ISTPs are adventurous and independent. They like to
figure out how things work. They have great mechanical
and technical skills. They live in the "here and now"
which makes them adaptable and spontaneous. They like
to keep busy and are action-oriented. ISTPs thrive on
new and exciting situations.
About the ISTP
"ISTPs have an adventuresome spirit. They are
attracted to motorcycles, airplanes, sky diving, surfing,
etc. They thrive on action, and are usually fearless.
ISTPs are fiercely independent, needing to have the
space to make their own decisions about their next step.
They do not believe in or follow rules and regulations, as
this would prohibit their ability to 'do their own thing'."
- Portrait of an ISTP (The Personality Page)
"Like their fellow SPs, ISTPs are fundamentally
Performers, but as Ts their areas of interest tend to be
mechanical rather than artistic like those of ISFPs, and
unlike most ESPs they do not present an impression of
constant activity."
- ISTP Profile (TypeLogic)
"...rather unemotional, does not like attention, more
interested in intellectual pursuits..."
- Jung Type Descriptions (similarminds.com)
"At work, ISTPs contribute their realistic and logical
way of meeting situational requirements. They can see
the easiest and most expedient route to completing a
task, and they do not waste their effort on unnecessary
things. They often act as trouble shooters, rising to meet
the needs of the occasion. Since many ISTPs have a
natural bent in technical areas, they may often function
as 'walking encyclopedias' of technical information. "
- ISTP - The Realist (Lifexplore)
"...their particular nature is most easily seen in their
mastery of tools of any and all kinds... Sometimes
Crafters will use their body as a tool."
- The Portrait of the Crafter Artisan (Keirsey)
DETAILS
Preferences
I ntroverted; S ensing; T hinking; P erceiving
Temperament
SP (Creator)
ISTP Population
Total: 6%; Male: 8.5%; Female: 3.5%
Primary; Secondary; Tertiary; Least
Function
Introverted Thinking; Extraverted Sensing;
Introverted Intuition; Extraverted Feeling
Real ISTP People
 Alan Shepherd – astronaut
 Antony Worrall Thompson - British celebrity
chef
 Bruce Lee - martial artist, actor
 Burt Reynolds – actor
 Charles Bronson – actor
 Chuck Yeager - U.S. Air Force officer
 Clint Eastwood - actor and director
 Frank Zappa – guitarist
46
  James Dean - actor John Malkovich – actor
Resources
 Judy Finnigan - British TV star

 Katharine Hepburn – actress

 Keith Richards - English guitarist/singer ESTP - The "Persuader"

 Michael Jordan - athelete (basketball,
ESTPs are action-loving, "here and now" realists with
baseball)
excellent people skills. Informal, risk-taking, fast-paced
and adaptable, they are not always in agreeance with
 Robin Cook - British politician rules and regulations. They are tactical problem solvers
that desire quick results. ESTPs, who present a friendly
 Tom Cruise – actor and enthusiastic face, are straightshooters that are able
to handle criticism.
 Zachary Taylor - American President
About the ESTP
ISTP Career
"These are the ultimate realists. Extraverted Sensors
are at one with objects and experiences now, in the only
 Athlete  Marketer living, pulsing moment that ever really exists. The Sensor
is compelled to see, touch, taste, smell and feel all that
 Business Analyst  Motorcyclist moves, wafts, tingles, tinkles, scintillates, vibrates or
resonates"
 Computer  Military
Specialist - ESTP Profile (TypeLogic)
 Mechanic
 Construction
"Promoters are men and women of action. When
Worker  Project Manager someone of this personality is present, things begin to
happen: the lights come on, the music plays, the game
 Computer  Police
Programmer begins."

 Probation Officer - The Portrait of the Promoter Artisan (eStP) (Keirsey)

 Carpenter
 Pilot
 Driver "likes to lead, likes sports, risk taker, tends to dominate
 Paramedic/EMT conversations, fearless, can handle criticism"
 Detective
 Steelworker - Jung Type Descriptions (ESTP) (similarminds.com)
 Dental Hygienist
"Enthusiastic and excitable, ESTPs are "doers" who
 Systems Analyst
 Engineer live in the world of action. Blunt, straight-forward risk-
takers, they are willing to plunge right into things and get
 Scientist
 Entrepreneur their hands dirty. They live in the here-and-now, and
place little importance on introspection or theory. The
 Sales
 Electrical look at the facts of a situation, quickly decide what
Representative
Engineer should be done, execute the action, and move on to the
next thing."
 Transportation
 Forensic Operative
Pathologist - Portrait of an ESTP (The Personality Page)

 Technical
 Farmer Specialist "At work, ESTPs contribute a straightforward attitude
that calls on people to make things happen quickly. They
 Firefighter
keep things lively and are willing to take personal and
organizational risks. They enjoy crises and like to dive
 Human
right in and skillfully negotiate through them."
47
- ESTP - The Adventurer (Lifexplore)  Roy Rogers - singer, actor

 Simon Peter - Disciple of Jesus

ESTP Career
DETAILS
ESTPs are often happy with the following jobs which tend
Preferences to match well with the Persuader/Creator personality.

E xtraverted; S ensing; T hinking; P erceiving

 Agent  Firefighter
Temperament
SP (Creator)  Auditor  Farmer

ESTP Population  Computer  Laborer

Technician
Total: 10%; Male: 12.5%; Female: 7.5%
 Military
 Craftsman
Primary; Secondary; Tertiary; Least
 Marketer
Function
 Computer Tech
Support  Network
Extraverted Sensing; Introverted Thinking;
Extraverted Feeling; Introverted Intuition Specialist
 Comedian
 Project Manager
Real ESTP People
 Carpenter
 Paramedic/EMT
 Ann Jillian – actress
 Driver
 Police
 Bruce Willis - actor (Die Hard)
 Detective
 Sales
 Cybil Shepherd – actress
 Entrepreneur Representative

 Donald Trump - businessman, TV personality

 Engineer

 Eddie Murphy - actor, comedian

 Ernest Hemingway - American novelist

 Jack Nicholson – actor ESTJ - The "Overseer"

 Jacob (Israel) - Isaac's son, Abraham's
grandson
 James Buchanan - American President
 Jimmy Conners - tennis player
 Joan Cusack - actress, comedian
 Lucille Ball - actress (I Love Lucy)
 Madonna - singer
 Mae West - actress
ESTJs are responsible, logical, norm-following hard
workers. Their efforts are carried out in a practical,
structured manner. ESTJs trust facts and experiences
more than theories. They are decisive, loyal, tradition
observing individuals. They enjoy being the person in
charge and often make good supervisors.
About the ESTJ
"ESTJs live in a world of facts and concrete needs. They
live in the present, with their eye constantly scanning
their personal environment to make sure that everything
is running smoothly and systematically. They honor
traditions and laws, and have a clear set of standards
and beliefs."

 Michael J. Fox - actor (Back to the Future) - Portrait of an ESTJ (The Personality Page)

48
  Andrew Jackson - American President
"...go by experience and that is what counts, not
speculation and experimentation, and certainly not  Bette Davis – actress
fantasy. They keep their feet firmly on the ground and
make sure that those under their supervision do the  Carrie Nation – advocate
same..."
 Elliot Ness - prohibition agent
- The Portrait of the Supervisor (eStJ) (Keirsey)
 George W. Bush - American President
"responsible, finisher, decisive, norm following,
 Grover Cleveland - American President
respects authority, punctual, hard working, stiff, self
confident"
 James Monroe - American President
- Jung Type Descriptions (ESTJ) (similarminds.com)
 John D. Rockefeller - industrialist,
"ESTJs thrive on order and continuity. Being philanthropist
extraverted, their focus involves organization of people,
which translates into supervision. While ENTJs enjoy  Lyndon B. Johnson - American President
organizing and mobilizing people according to their own
theories and tactically based agendas, ESTJs are  Pat Summit - basketball coach
content to enforce "the rules," often dictated by tradition
or handed down from a higher authority."  Rev. Billy Graham - evangelist, writer

- ESTJ Profile (TypeLogic)  Robert A. Taft - Governor of Ohio

 Sam Walton - founder of Wal-Mart

"ESTJs prefer occupations that require an organized,
logical, and practical bent that incorporates an effective  William Henry Harrison - American President
use of time and resources. They pay attention to the
organization's hierarchy and use policies and procedures ESTJ Career
to help them to move the tasks along. They like making
decisions and dealing with concrete, specific facts."
 Accountant  Lecturer
- ESTJ - The Enforcer (Lifexplore)
 Auditor  Military Leader

 Business Analyst  Marketer

DETAILS

Preferences  Business  Manager

Administrator
E xtraverted; S ensing; T hinking; J udging  Nursing
 Banker Administrator
Temperament
SJ (Protector)  Computer  Police
Specialist
ESTJ Population  Researcher
 Detective
Total: 13%; Male: 16%; Female: 10%
 Senior Manager
 Engineer
Primary; Secondary; Tertiary; Least
Function  Sales
 Economist Representative
Extraverted Thinking; Introverted Sensing;
Extraverted Intuition; Introverted Feeling  Editor  Scientist

Real ESTJ People  Financial Officer  Technical

49

 Government Specialist
Worker
 Teacher/Profess
 Insurance Agent or
 Judge  Teacher
 Librarian  Underwriter
 Writer
ISFJ - The "Defender"
ISFJs are traditional, loyal, quiet and kind. They are very
sensitive to other people's needs because they are very
observant. They have rich inner thoughts and emotions.
They value stability and cultural norms. They are very
adept at giving attention to detail. They do not seek
positions of authority.
About the ISFJ
"ISFJs are characterized above all by their desire to
serve others, their "need to be needed." In extreme
cases, this need is so strong that standard give-and-take
relationships are deeply unsatisfying to them; however,
most ISFJs find more than enough with which to occupy
themselves within the framework of a normal life."
- ISFJ Profile (TypeLogic)
"modest, not confrontational, easily hurt, observer, prone
to crying, not spontaneous"
- Jung Type Descriptions (ISFJ) (similarminds.com)
"ISFJs have a rich inner world that is not usually
obvious to observers. They constantly take in information
about people and situations that is personally important
to them, and store it away. This tremendous store of
information is usually startlingly accurate, because the
ISFJ has an exceptional memory about things that are
important to their value systems. It would not be
uncommon for the ISFJ to remember a particular facial
expression or conversation in precise detail years after..."
- Portrait of an ISFJ (The Personality Page)
"The primary desire of the Protector SJ is to be of service
to others, but here "service" means not so much
furnishing others with the necessities of life, as guarding
others against life's pitfalls and perils, that is, seeing to
their safety and security."
- The Portrait of the Protector Guardian (iSfJ) (Keirsey)
"At work, ISFJs contribute loyal, sympathetic,
consistent, and considerate service to others. They are
know for their kindness and for their willingness to go to
any length to help those in need. They take the practical
needs of people into account when they do their work,
and their strong follow-through skills allow them to
carry out organizational goals. They do at least what is
expected to them and oftentimes more, without attracting
attention to themselves. They are painstaking and
responsible with detail and routine, and feel it is
important to have the right things in the right places at
the right times."
- ISFJ - The Nurturer (Lifexplore)
DETAILS
Preferences
I ntroverted; S ensing; F eeling; J udging
Temperament
SJ (Protector)
ISFJ Population
Total: 7%; Male: 4%; Female: 10%
Primary; Secondary; Tertiary; Least
Function
Introverted Sensing; Extraverted Feeling;
Introverted Thinking; Extraverted Intuition
Real ISFJ People
 Alfred, Lord Tennyson – poet
 Barbara Bush - American First Lady
 Jimmy Stewart – actor
 Kristi Yamaguchi - figure skater
 Louisa May Alcott – novelist
 Michael Caine - actor
 Mother Theresa - missionary nun
50
  Queen Mary I - Queen of England
 Robert E. Lee - Army Officer
ISFJ Career
Artist; Accountant; Administrator; Auditor; Administrative
Assistant; Actor; Business Analyst; Bookkeeper; Banker;
Counselor; Clerical Supervisor; Career Counselor; Child
Care; Church Worker; Doctor; Designer; Entrepreneur;
Editor; Economist; Early Childhood Development;
Gardener; Health Service; Human Resources;
Homemaker; Interior Decorator; Librarian; Military;
Marketer; Medical Technologist; Nurse; Office Manager;
Psychologist/Counselor; Paralegal; Police; Researcher;
Social Worker; Shopkeeper; Senior Manager; Scientist;
Typist; Trainer; Writer
ISFP - The "Artist"
ISFPs are artistic, creative, loyal and sensitive. They
have a keen appreciation for beauty because of their
highly developed senses. They are easy to get along with
and live in the "here and now". ISFPs are adaptable,
caring, independent and like to contribute to the well-
being of others. They are typically hard to get to know.
About the ISFP
"...first to hear the different drummer. Many eagerly
plunge into new fashions, avant garde experiences, 'hip'
trends--some even setting the trends. More in touch with
the reality of their senses than their INFP counterparts,
ISFPs live in the here and now. Their impulses yearn
to be free, and are often loosed when others least
expect it. The ISFP who continually represses these
impulses feels 'dead inside'..."
- ISFP Profile (TypeLogic)
"...easily disturbed, fears drawing attention to self, prone
to confusion, private..."
- Jung Type Descriptions (ISFP) (similarminds.com)
"...excel in the "fine arts," having not only a natural grace
of movement, but also an innate sense what fits and
what doesn't fit in artistic compositions..."
- The Portrait of the Composer Artisan (Keirsey)
"ISFPs live in the world of sensation possibilities. They
are keenly in tune with the way things look, taste, sound,
feel and smell. They have a strong aesthetic
appreciation for art, and are likely to be artists in some
form, because they are unusually gifted at creating and
composing things which will strongly affect the senses."
- Portrait of an ISFP (The Personality Page)
"At work, ISFPs contribute by attending to the practical
facts relating to the needs of people and all living things
in their environments. They can infuse a particular knod
of joy into cooperative nature. Because they pay
attention to the humanistic aspects of the organization,
they act in ways that ensure others' well-being. People
enjoy ISFPs because they bring understanding yet
adaptability to the realities of their work."
- ISFP - The Aesthete (Lifexplore)
DETAILS
Preferences
I ntroverted; S ensing; F eeling; P erceiving
Temperament
SP (Creator)
ISFP Population
Total: 6%; Male: 5%; Female: 7%
Primary; Secondary; Tertiary; Least
Function
Introverted Feeling; Extraverted Sensing;
Introverted Intuition; Extraverted Thinking
Real ISFP People
 Auguste Rodin - French sculptor
 Barbara Streisand – singer
 Brooke Shields – actress
 Dan Quayle - American Vice President
 Doris Day - actress, singer
 Fred Astaire - actor, dancer
51
  Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis - First Lady (Wife
of J.F.K.)
 John Travolta – actor
 Kevin Costner - actor
 Liberace - entertainer
 Marie Antoinette - Archduchess of Austria,
Queen of France
 Millard Fillmore - American President
 Paul Gauguin - artist
 Steven Spielberg - filmmaker
 Ulysses S. Grant - American President
 Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - composer
ISFP Career
Artist; Administrative Assistant; Clerical Supervisor;
Composer; Church Worker; Counselor; Child Care;
Carpenter; Chef; Designer; Dental Staff; Editor; Early
Childhood Development; Forest Ranger; Homemaker;
Librarian; Musician; Mechanic; Medical Staff; Nurse;
Naturalist; Psychologist; Physical Therapist; Pediatrician;
Personal Service Worker; Social Worker; Trainer;
Technical Specialist; Teacher; Veterinarian;
Waiter/Waitress; Writer; X-Ray Technician
ESFP - The "Entertainer"
ESFPs are cooperative, "here and now" people-persons
that enjoy excitement and love new adventures. Because
of their highly social nature, they are especially lively
when they are the center of attention and hate being
alone. ESFPs have a practical side that allows them to
finish work efficiently and are often good problem solvers.
About the ESFP
"For the ESFP, the entire world is a stage. They love to
be the center of attention and perform for people.
They're constantly putting on a show for others to
entertain them and make them happy. They enjoy
stimulating other people's senses, and are extremely
good at it. They would love nothing more than for life to
be a continual party, in which they play the role of the
fun-loving host."
- Portrait of an ESFP (The Pesonality Page)
"They love the excitement of playing to an audience, and
they try to generate a sense of "showtime" wherever they
are. Performers are not comfortable being alone most
of the time..."
- The Portrait of the Performer Artisan (Keirsey)
"outgoing, social, group oriented, dislikes science
fiction, does not like to be alone"
- Jung Type Descriptions (ESFP) (similarminds.com)
"ESFP like action and excitement, and are able to link
together people and resources. Because they accept and
deal with people as they are, they are able to understand
what is necessary in order to motivate them to get jobs
done. They prefer a work setting that is lively, action
oriented, and harmonious."
- ESFP - The Joker (Lifexplore)
"The dominant function of ESFPs (Extraverted Sensing)
is concerned with the reality that is perceived through the
senses. This type's prime directive is to examine the
tangible through taste, touch, sight, feeling and hearing.
ESFPs' need for new experiences surely results from
this function."
- ESFP Profile (TypeLogic)
DETAILS
Preferences
E xtraverted; S ensing; F eeling; P erceiving
Temperament
SP (Creator)
ESFP Population
Total: 11%; Male: 8%; Female: 14%
Primary; Secondary; Tertiary; Least
Function
Extraverted Sensing; Introverted Feeling;
Extraverted Thinking; Introverted Intuition
52
Real ESFP People
 Arsenio Hall – comedian
 Bill Clinton - American President, politician
 Bob Hope – actor
 Cindy Gliebe - American vegan chef
 Earvin "Magic" Johnson - basketball player
 Elizabeth Taylor – actress
 Elvis Presley - singer/musician, actor
 Eva Gabor – actress
 Gracie Allen – comedian
 John Goodman – actor
 Kathy Lee Gifford - actress, singer
 Kyle Petty - NASCAR driver
 Marilyn Monroe - actor, singer, model
 Mary Lou Retton - gymnast
 Pablo Picasso - Spanish painter, sculptor
 Peter Kay - writer, actor, comedian
 Ronald Reagan - American President, actor
 Saint Mark - apostle, evangelist
 Willard Scott - media personality
ESFP Career
Actor; Artist; Administrative Assistant; Coach; Comedian;
Church Worker; Child Care; Entrepreneur; Fashion
Designer; Human Resources; Interior Decorator;
Lawyer/Attorney; Musician; Marketer; Painter;
Psychologist/Counselor; Photographer; Recreation
Worker; Receptionist; Systems Analyst; Supervisor;
Sales Represenative; Social Worker; Scientist; Trainer;
Technical Specialist
ESFJ - The "Supporter"
ESFJs are social butterflies that value relationships,
supporting and nurturing others. Never one to shy away
from social events, they are often the host. They are
great encouragers of teamwork. ESFJs are responsible,
dutiful, observe traditions and follow rules. ESFJs have a
deep concern for others and often end up as caretakers.
They are sensitive to criticism and have a need to be
appreciated for the good they do for others. ESFJs are
understanding, generous, have a quick wit and a knack
for composition and beautification.
About the ESFJ
"Guardians of birthdays, holidays and celebrations,
ESFJs are entertainers. They enjoy and joyfully
observe traditions and are liberal in giving, especially
where custom prescribes."
- ESFJ Profile (TypeLogic)
"ESFJs are people persons - they love people. They are
warmly interested in others. They use their Sensing and
Judging characteristics to gather specific, detailed
information about others, and turn this information into
supportive judgments. They want to like people, and
have a special skill at bringing out the best in others.
They are extremely good at reading others, and
understanding their point of view. The ESFJ's strong
desire to be liked and for everything to be pleasant
makes them highly supportive of others."
- Portrait of an ESFJ (The Personality Page)
"...values relationships and families over intellectual
pursuits, group oriented, follows the rules..."
- Jung Type Descriptions (ESFJ) (similarminds.com)
"...take it upon themselves to arrange for the health and
welfare of those in their care, but they are also the most
sociable of all the SJs, and thus are the great nurturers
of established institutions such as schools, businesses,
churches, social clubs, and civic groups."
- The Portrait of the Provider Guardian (Keirsey)
"At work, ESFJs contribute their ability to cooperate with
others and to complete tasks in a timely and accurate
way. They respect rules and authority, and handle daily
operations efficiently. They tend to be well informed and
up-to-date on organizational actions that matter to
53
people. They do what they can to make sure that
personal relationships are running smoothly. Because  Accountant  Marketer
they pay close attention to people's needs and wants,
they are often involved in work activities that meet  Administrator  Nurse
people's practical, day-to-day desires."
 Administrative  Office Manager
- ESFJ - The Helper (Lifexplore) Assistant
 Organization
DETAILS  Bookkeeper Leader

Preferences  Counselor  Researcher

E xtraverted; S ensing; F eeling; J udging

 Child Care  Radiological
Technologist
Temperament
 Church Worker
SJ (Protector)  Receptionist
 Dental Assistant
ESFJ Population  Speech
 Family Doctor Pathologist
Total: 12%; Male: 7%; Female: 17%
 Human  Social Worker
Primary; Secondary; Tertiary; Least
Resources
Function  Trainer
Extraverted Feeling; Introverted Sensing;  Homemaker
 Teacher
Extraverted Intuition; Introverted Thinking

Real ESFJ People

 Danny Glover – actor

 Desi Arnaz - actor, comedian, musician
 Dixie Carter – actress
 Don Knotts – comedian
 Elvis Stojko - Canadian figure skater
 Jack Benny - comedian, actor
INFJ - The "Confidant"
INFJs, making up an estimated 1% of all people, are the
most rare type (males even more so). They are
introspective, caring, sensitive, gentle and complex
people that strive for peace and derive satisfaction from
helping others. INFJs are highly intuitive, empathetic and
dedicated listeners. These traits tend to act as a "tell me
what's wrong" sign on their forehead, hence the
nicknames Confidant, Counselor or Empath. INFJs are
intensely private and deeply committed to their beliefs.

 John Connally – politician About the INFJ

 Mary Tyler Moore - actress, comedian
 Nancy Kerrigan - Olympic figure skater
 Sally Field - actress
"INFJs are gentle, caring, complex and highly
intuitive individuals. Artistic and creative, they live in a
world of hidden meanings and possibilities. Only one
percent of the population has an INFJ Personality Type,
making it the most rare of all the types."

 Sally Struthers - actress - Portrait of an INFJ (The Personality Page)

 Steve Spurrier - football player

"INFJs enjoy a greater clarity of perception of inner,
unconscious processes than all but their INTJ cousins.
 William McKinley - American President
Just as SP types commune with the object and "live in
ESFJ Career the here and now" of the physical world, INFJs readily

54
grasp the hidden psychological stimuli behind the more  Fred McMurray – actor
observable dynamics of behavior and affect."
 Gillian Anderson - actress (X-Files)
- INFJ Profile (TypeLogic)
 James Reston – journalist
"creative, smart, focus on fantasy more than reality,
 Jamie Foxx - actor, musician, comedian
attracted to sad things, fears doing the wrong thing,
observer, avoidant..."
 Martin Van Buren - American President
- INFJ Jung Type Descriptions (similarminds.com)
 Mel Gibson - actor, filmmaker
"...desire to contribute to the welfare of others and
genuinely enjoy helping their companions. Although  Michael Landon - actor (Little House on the
Counsleors tend to be private, sensitive people, and Prairie)
are not generally visible leaders, they nevertheless work
quite intensely with those close to them, quietly exerting  Nathan - Prophet of Israel
their influence behind the scenes..."
 Nathaniel Hawthorne - novelist
- The Portrait of the Counselor Idealist (Keirsey)
 Nelson Mandela - President of South Africa

"INFJs tend to be devoted to what they believe in and  Nicole Kidman - actress
seek work where their needs, values, and ideals can be
deeply engaged. They move on the wave of their  Oprah Winfrey - TV show host
inspirations and are determined to see that their values
are worked out in their lives. They will work toward their  Sudi-Kate - American dramatist, evangelist
goals individually and, when needed, will put together a
team of other highly dedicated people like themselves." INFJ Career

- INFJ - The Mystic (Lifexplore)

 Actor  Educational
DETAILS Consultant Human
 Artist Resources
Preferences
 Alternative  Librarian
I ntroverted; iN tuition; F eeling; J udging
Medicine
Temperament  Musician
 Clergy
NF (Visionary)  Marketer
 Consultant
INFJ Population  Missionary
 Church
Total: 1%; Male: 0.5%; Female: 1.5%  Psychologist/Couns
Worker
elor
Primary; Secondary; Tertiary; Least
 Chiropractor
Function
 Photographer
Introverted Intuition; Extraverted Feeling;  Child
Introverted Thinking; Extraverted Sensing Development  Psychiatrist

Real INFJ People  Child Care  Systems Analyst

Worker
 Adam Sandler - actor, comedian  Social Worker
 Doctor
 Anthony Kiedis - singer (Red Hot Chili  Trainer
Peppers)  Dentist

55

 Designer  Teacher/Professor
 Entrepreneur  Writer

INFP - The "Dreamer"
INFPs are introspective, private, creative and highly
idealistic individuals that have a constant desire to be on
a meaningful path. They are driven by their values and
seek peace. Empathetic and compassionate, they want
to help others and humanity as a whole. INFPs are
imaginative, artistic and often have a talent for language
and writing. They can also be described as easygoing,
selfless, guarded, adaptable, patient and loyal.
About the INFP
"To understand Healers, we must understand their
idealism as almost boundless and selfless, inspiring
them to make extraordinary sacrifices for someone or
something they believe in. The Healer is the Prince or
Princess of fairytale, the King's Champion or Defender of
the Faith..."
- The Portrait of a Healer Idealist (Keirsey)
"INFPs are highly intuitive about people. They rely
heavily on their intuitions to guide them, and use their
discoveries to constantly search for value in life. They
are on a continuous mission to find the truth and
meaning underlying things. Every encounter and every
piece of knowledge gained gets sifted through the INFP's
value system, and is evaluated to see if it has any
potential to help the INFP define or refine their own path
in life."
- Portrait of an INFP (The Personality Page)
"An INFP's feelings form the foundations of the individual.
They are sacred and binding, in the sense that their
emergence requires no further justification. An INFP's
feelings are often guarded, kept safe from attack and
ridicule. Only a few, close confidants are permitted
entrance into this domain."
- INFP Profile (INFP Mailing List)
"Highly creative, artistic and spiritual, they can produce
wonderful works of art, music and literature. INFPs are
natural artists. They will find great satisfaction if they
encourage and develop their artistic abilities. That
doesn't mean that an INFP has to be a famous writer or
painter in order to be content. Simply the act of "creating"
will be a fulfilling source of renewal and refreshment to
the INFP. An INFP should allow himself or herself some
artistic outlet, because it will add enrichment and positive
energy to their life."
- INFP Personal Growth (The Personality Page)
"Their job must be fun, although not racous, and it must
be meaningful to them. They need a strong purpose in
their work. They want to be recognized and valued,
without undue attention given to them. They may become
embarrassed when make the center of attention. As a
result, they may undersell their strengths in order to
avoid being singled out and made to feel conspicuous.
They would rather have their worth be noticed gradually
over time."
- INFP - The Dreamer (Lifexplore)
DETAILS
Preferences
I ntroverted; iN tuition; F eeling; P erceiving
Temperament
NF (Visionary)
INFP Population
Total: 2%; Male: 1.5%; Female: 2.5%
Primary; Secondary; Tertiary; Least
Function
Introverted Feeling; Extraverted Intuition;
Introverted Sensing; Extraverted Thinking
Real INFP People
 Audrey Hepburn - actress (Breakfast at
Tiffany's)
 Helen Keller - deaf/blind author, activist,
lecturer
 Isabel Briggs Myers - psychological theorist
56
  J. R. R. Tolkien - writer (Lord of the Rings)
 John - Disciple of Jesus
 John F. Kennedy, Jr. - lawyer, journalist,
publisher
 Mary - Mother of Jesus
 Princess Diana - Princess of Wales
 William Shakespeare - English poet and
playwright
INFP Career
Activist; Architect; Artist; Actor; Counselor; Church
Worker; Employee Development Specialist; Educational
Consultant; Editor; Filmmaker; Fashion Designer;
Graphic/Web Designer; Holistic Health Practitioner;
Human Resources; Journalist; Librarian; Legal Mediator;
Massage Therapist; Missionary; Musician; Minister;
Psychologist/Counselor; Photographer; Physical
Therapist; Researcher; Social Scientist; Speech
Pathologist; Social Worker; Translator/Interpreter;
Teacher/Professor; Video Editor; Writer
ENFP - The "Advocate"
ENFPs are introspective, values-oriented, inspiring,
social and extremely expressive. They actively send their
thoughts and ideas out into the world as a way to bring
attention to what they feel to be important, which often
has to do with ethics and current events. ENFPs are
natural advocates, attracting people to themselves and
their cause with excellent people skills, warmth, energy
and positivity. ENFPs are described as creative,
resourceful, assertive, spontaneous, life-loving,
charismatic, passionate and experimental.
About the ENFP
"They can't bear to miss out on what is going on around
them; they must experience, first hand, all the significant
social events that affect our lives."
- The Portrait of the Champion Idealist (Keirsey)
"ENFPs are warm, enthusiastic people, typically very
bright and full of potential. They live in the world of
possibilities, and can become very passionate and
excited about things. Their enthusiasm lends them the
ability to inspire and motivate others, more so than we
see in other types. They can talk their way in or out of
anything. They love life, seeing it as a special gift, and
strive to make the most out of it."
- Portrait of an ENFP (The Personality Page)
"Friends are what life is about to ENFPs, moreso even
than the other NFs. They hold up their end of the
relationship, sometimes being victimized by less caring
individuals. ENFPs are energized by being around
people. Some have real difficulty being alone,
especially on a regular basis."
- ENFP Profile (TypeLogic)
"outgoing, social, disorganized, easily talked into doing
silly things, spontaneous, wild and crazy, acts without
thinking..."
- ENFP Jung Type Descriptions (similarminds.com)
"ENFPs are energetic and enthusiastic leaders who are
likely to take charge when a new endeavor needs a
visionary spokesperson. ENFPs are values-oriented
people who become champions of causes and services
relating to human needs and dreams. Their leadership
style is one of soliciting and recognizing others'
contributions and of evaluating the personal needs of
their followers. ENFPs are often charismatic leaders
who are able to help people see the possibilities
beyond themselves and their current realities. They
function as catalysts."
- ENFP - The Visionary (Lifexplore)
"Ranked 1st of all 16 types in using social and emotional
coping resources and 2nd in using cognitive resources. "
- ENFP Facts (discoveryourpersonality.com)
DETAILS
Preferences
E xtraverted; iN tuition; F eeling; P erceiving
Temperament
NF (Visionary)
ENFP Population
Total: 7%; Male: 6%; Female: 8%
Primary; Secondary; Tertiary; Least
Function
Extraverted Intuition; Introverted Feeling;
Extraverted Thinking; Introverted Sensing
Real ENFP People
57
  Bill Cosby - actor, comedian, activist
 Charles Dickens - English novelist
 Dave Thomas - businessman (Wendy's),
philanthropist
 Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geise) - writer,
cartoonist
 King Jordan - deaf president of Gallaudet
University
 Robin Williams - actor
 Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) - writer
 Sandra Bullock - actress
ENFP Career
Artist; Art Director; Actor; Accountant/Auditor;
Banker/Economist; Consultant; Career Counselor;
Conference Planner; Church Worker; Diplomat;
Dietitian/Nutritionist; Designer; Entrepreneur; Engineer;
Editor; Human Resources; Housing Director;
Homemaker; Journalist; Lawyer/Attorney; Musician;
Merchandise Planner; Marketer; Massage Therapist;
Nurse; Newscaster; Occupational Therapist; Public
Relations; Psychologist/Counselor; Painter; Politician;
Project Manager; Researcher; Scientist; Social Worker;
Speech Pathologist; Social Scientist; Senior Manager;
Trainer; Teacher/Professor; Technical Specialist; Writer
ENFJ - The "Mentor"
ENFJs are externally focused, introspective, altruistic,
positive and have excellent people skills. They place
utmost importance on helping others grow. They are
warm and have a natural desire to be supportive and
encouraging. Being charismatic and possessing excellent
language skills, they do well in leadership roles. ENFJs
strive to enhance the lives of their human brethren.
About the ENFJ
"ENFJs are the benevolent 'pedagogues' of humanity.
They have tremendous charisma by which many are
drawn into their nurturant tutelage and/or grand
schemes. Many ENFJs have tremendous power to
manipulate others with their phenomenal interpersonal
skills and unique salesmanship."
- ENFJ Profile (TypeLogic)
"altruistic, easily hurt, religious, neat, content, positive,
affectionate, image conscious..."
- ENFJ Jung Type Descriptions (similarminds.com)
"Success for an ENFJ comes through involvement in the
process of making things happen for people; through the
accomplishments and satisfactions of those they have
helped to enrich the human world with greater value,
and through finding that their efforts on behalf of others
have fulfilled their own life as well."
- ENFJ Personal Growth (The Personality Page)
"Teachers expect the very best of those around them,
and this expectation, usually expressed as enthusiastic
encouragement, motivates action in others and the
desire to live up to their expectations."
- The Portrait of the Teacher Idealist (Keirsey)
"ENFJs are people-focused individuals. They live in the
world of people possibilities. More so than any other
type, they have excellent people skills. They understand
and care about people, and have a special talent for
bringing out the best in others. ENFJ's main interest in
life is giving love, support, and a good time to other
people. They are focused on understanding, supporting,
and encouraging others. They make things happen for
people, and get their best personal satisfaction from this."
- Portrait of an ENFJ (The Personality Page)
"ENFJs focused on the organization's ideals and operate
within those ideals. They focus on how organizations
should treat people and communicate these values to
others. They enjoy leading and facilitating teams, and
like to bring matters to mutually beneficial conclusions.
ENFJs prefer a work setting that contains individuals
focused on changing things for the betterment of others."
- ENFJ - The Safe (Lifexplore)
"Rated by psychologists among 2 types least likely to
have trouble in school. "
- ENFJ Facts (discoveryourpersonality.com)
DETAILS
Preferences
E xtraverted; iN tuition; F eeling; J udging
Temperament
NF (Visionary)
58
 ENFJ Population
Total: 4%; Male: 2.5%; Female: 5.5%
Primary; Secondary; Tertiary; Least
Function
Extraverted Feeling; Introverted Intuition;
Extraverted Sensing; Introverted Thinking
Real ENFJ People
 Abraham Maslow – psychologist
 Ben Affleck – actor
 Ben Stiller - actor, comedian
 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. - minister, civil rights
activist
 Johnny Depp - actor
 King David - King of Israel
 Mikhail Gorbachev - last leader of Soviet Union
ENFJ Career
Accountant/Auditor; Artist; Administrator; Actor;
Administrative Assistant; Banker/Economist; Consultant;
Computer Specialist; Career Counselor; Church Worker;
Diplomat; Designer; Events Coordinator; Editor;
Engineer; Facilitator; Human Resources; Homemaker;
Librarian; Musician; Nurse; Occupational Therapist;
Psychiatrist; Psychologist/Counselor; Project Manager;
Politician; Social Worker; Senior Manager; Scientist;
Sales Representative; Trainer; Teacher/Professor;
Technical Specialist; Writer
INTJ - The "Strategist"
INTJs are introspective, analytical, determined persons
with natural leadership ability. Being reserved, they prefer
to stay in the background while leading. Strategic,
knowledgable and adaptable, INTJs are talented in
bringing ideas from conception to reality. They expect
perfection from themselves as well as others and are
comfortable with the leadership of another so long as
they are competent. INTJs can also be described as
decisive, open-minded, self-confident, attentive,
theoretical and pragmatic.
About the INTJ
"...approach reality as they would a giant chess board,
always seeking strategies that have a high payoff, and
always devising contingency plans in case of error or
adversity."
- The Portrait of the Mastermind Rational (iNTj) (Keirsey)
"...observer, values solitude, perfectionist, detached,
private... does not talk about feelings, hard to impress,
analytical, likes esoteric things..."
- Jung Type Descriptions (INTJ) (similarminds.com)
"To outsiders, INTJs may appear to project an aura of
"definiteness", of self-confidence. This self-confidence,
sometimes mistaken for simple arrogance by the less
decisive, is actually of a very specific rather than a
general nature; its source lies in the specialized
knowledge systems that most INTJs start building at an
early age. When it comes to their own areas of expertise
-- and INTJs can have several -- they will be able to tell
you almost immediately whether or not they can help
you, and if so, how."
- INTJ Profile (TypeLogic)
"At work, INTJs use their conceptual strengths to
analyze situations and then develop models to
understand and anticipate through relentlessly to reach
their goals. They will continue on with their plans, even in
the face of adversity and data that might suggest to other
more practical types that their goals are no longer
feasible. By nature, INTJs are independent
individualists."
- INTJ - The Free-Thinker (Lifexplore)
"INTJs are natural leaders, although they usually
choose to remain in the background until they see a real
need to take over the lead. When they are in leadership
roles, they are quite effective, because they are able to
objectively see the reality of a situation, and are
adaptable enough to change things which aren't working
well. They are the supreme strategists - always
scanning available ideas and concepts and weighing
them against their current strategy, to plan for every
conceivable contingency. "
- Portrait of an INTJ (The Personality Page)
DETAILS
Preferences
I ntroverted; iN tuition; T hinking; J udging
Temperament
NT (Intellectual)
INTJ Population
59
 Total: 1.5%; Male: 2.5%; Female: 0.5%
Primary; Secondary; Tertiary; Least
Function
Introverted Intuition; Extraverted Thinking;
Introverted Feeling; Extraverted Sensing
Real INTJ People
 Arnold Schwarzenegger - actor, Governor of
California
 Augustus Caesar - Roman Emperor
 C. S. Lewis - apologist, author (The Chronicles
of Narnia)
 Calvin Coolidge - American President
 Charles Rangel - politician, decorated war
veteran
 Dwight D. Eisenhower - American President
 General Colin Powell - former U.S. Secretary
of State
 James K. Polk - American President
 Jane Austen - author (Pride and Prejudice)
 Sir Isaac Newton - Astronomer
 Thomas Jefferson - American President
 Woodrow Wilson - American President
INTJ Career
Business Administrator; Corporate Strategist; Computer
Programmer; Computer Specialist; Dentist; Entrepreneur;
Engineer; Judge; Lawyer/Attorney; Military Officer;
Manager; Medical Doctor; Organization Founder;
Psychologist; Researcher; Scientist; Systems Analyst;
Teacher/Professor
INTP - The "Engineer"
INTPs are logical, individualistic, reserved, and very
curious individuals. They focus on ideas, theories and the
explanation of how things work. They are especially
adept at discussions and debate. They have the ability to
focus intently on a subject. They appreciate and respect
intelligence in others.
About the INTP
"INTPs are relatively easy-going and amenable to most
anything until their principles are violated, about which
they may become outspoken and inflexible. They prefer
to return, however, to a reserved albeit benign
ambiance, not wishing to make spectacles of
themselves."
- INTP Profile (TypeLogic)
"The INTP is above all a thinker and his inner (private)
world is a place governed by a strong sense of logical
structure. Every experience is to be rigorously analysed,
the task of the INTP's mind is to fit each encountered
idea or experience into a larger structure defined by
logic."
- An INTP Profile (intp.org)
"INTPs live in the world of theoretical possibilities. They
see everything in terms of how it could be improved, or
what it could be turned into. They live primarily inside
their own minds, having the ability to analyze difficult
problems, identify patterns, and come up with logical
explanations. They seek clarity in everything, and are
therefore driven to build knowledge. They are the
"absent-minded professors", who highly value
intelligence and the ability to apply logic to theories to
find solutions."
- Portrait of an INTP (The Personality Page)
"The Architects' distant goal is always to rearrange the
environment somehow, to shape, to construct, to devise,
whether it be buildings, institutions, enterprises, or
theories. They look upon the world -- natural and civil --
as little more than raw material to be reshaped according
to their design..."
- The Portrait of the Architect Rational (iNTp) (Keirsey)
"INTPs contribute a logical, system-building approach
to their work. They like being the architect of a plan,
because of the scheming and thinking involved, far more
than being the implementer of that plan. Implementation
tends to be drudgery. They are content to sit back and
think about what might work, given their view of the
situation. INTPs may ignore standard operating
procedures. The hours that they spend are not what is
important to them, but rather the completion of their
thought process"
- INTP - The Wizard (Lifexplore)
60

"likes solitude, not revealing, unemotional, rule
breaker, avoidant, familiar with the darkside, skeptical,
acts without consulting others"
- Jung Type Descriptions (INTP) (similarminds.com)
DETAILS
Preferences: I ntroverted; iN tuition; T hinking;
P erceiving
Temperament: NT (Intellectual)
INTP Population
Total: 2.5%; Male: 4%; Female: 1%
Primary; Secondary; Tertiary; Least
Function: Introverted Thinking; Extraverted
Intuition; Introverted Sensing; Extraverted
Feeling
Real INTP People
Abraham Lincoln - American President; Albert Einstein -
German physicist; Olsen Twins - actress (Full House);
Blaise Pascal - French mathematician; Carl Jung - Swiss
psychiatrist; Charles Darwin - English naturalist; Gerald
Ford - American President; James Madison - American
President; Jeff Bingaman - U.S. Senator; John Quincy
Adams - American President; John Tyler - American
President; Meryl Streep – actress; Rene Descartes -
French philosopher; Socrates - Greek philosopher;
William Harvey - medical doctor; William James -
American psychologist
INTP Career
Artist; Actor; Architect; Archaeologist; Agent; Consultant;
Computer Specialist; Computer Animator; Computer
Programmer; Engineer; Economist; Forestry/Park
Ranger; Financial Planner; Historian; Human Resources
Manager; Investigator; Investment Banker; Inventor;
Interpreter/Translator; Judge; Legal Mediator; Logician;
Lawyer/Attorney; Mathematician; Musician; Marketer;
Network Specialist; Psychologist; Psychiatrist;
Philosopher; Project Manager; Photographer;
Researcher; Systems Analyst; Scientist; Strategic
Planner; Technical Writer; Teacher/Professor
ENTP - The "Originator"
ENTPs are logical, innovative, curious and downright
inventive. They see possibilities for improvement
everywhere and possess the ability to understand
complex concepts. ENTPs are introspective and carefree
nonconformists. They often neglect the more common
areas of life while pursuing new solutions. ENTPs can be
good conversationalists and exciting company.
About the ENTP
"ENTPs are idea people. Their perceptive abilities
cause them to see possibilities everywhere. They get
excited and enthusiastic about their ideas, and are able
to spread their enthusiasm to others. In this way, they get
the support that they need to fulfill their visions"
- Portrait of an ENTP (The Personality Page)
"It is so natural for these individuals to practice devising
gadgets and mechanisms, that they start doing it even as
young children. And they get such a kick out of it that
they really never stop exercising their inventive bent"
- The Portrait of the Inventor Rational (Keirsey)
"ENTPs are usually verbally as well as cerebrally quick,
and generally love to argue--both for its own sake, and
to show off their often-impressive skills... argument as a
sport."
- ENTP Profile (TypeLogic)
"ENTPs contribute an innovative, versatile, and
enterprising approach to work. They view limitations as
challenges to be overcome and look for new ways to do
things. They need to find a niche for themselves in order
to be free to maneuver. They prefer the start-up phase
of a project rather than the followthrough or maintenance
phase. Once the project is designed, they prefer to turn it
over to someone else."
- ENTP - The Innovator (Lifexplore)
"...attention seeking, experience junky, insensitive,
adaptable, not easily offended, messy, carefree,
dangerous, fearless, careless..."
- Jung Type Descriptions (ENTP) (similarminds.com)
DETAILS
Preferences
E xtraverted; iN tuition; T hinking; P erceiving
Temperament
NT (Intellectual)
ENTP Population
61
 Total: 4.5%; Male: 6%; Female: 3%
Primary; Secondary; Tertiary; Least
Function
Extraverted Intuition; Introverted Thinking;
Extraverted Feeling; Introverted Sensing
Real ENTP People
 Alexander the Great - king, military
commander
 Alfred Hitchcock - filmmaker (The Birds)
 Celine Dion – singer
 James A. Garfield - American President
 John Adams - American President
 Lewis Carroll - author (Alice in Wonderland)
 Nikola Tesla - inventor, physicist, engineer
 Rutherford B. Hayes - American President
 Sir Walter Raleigh - writer, poet, explorer
 Suzanne Pleshette - actress
 Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt - American
President
 Thomas Edison - inventor
 Tom Hanks - actor
 Walt Disney - filmmaker, entrepreneur
ENTP Career
ENTPs are often happy with the following jobs which
tend to match well with the Originator/Intellectual
personality.
 Actor  Lawyer/Attorney
 Artist  Musician
 Consultant  Marketer
 Computer  Psychologist
Programmer
 Psychiatrist
 Comedian  Politician
 Computer  Photographer
Analyst
 Systems Analyst
 Designer
 Sales
 Engineer Representative
 Entrepreneur  Scientist
 Inventor  Writer
 Journalist
ENTJ - The "Chief"
ENTJs are strategic, organized and possess natural
leadership qualities. They are master coordinators that
can effectively give direction to groups. They are able to
understand complicated organizational situations and
quick to develop intelligent solutions. ENTJs are
outspoken and will not hesitate to speak of their plans for
improvement. They are decisive and value knowledge,
efficiency and competence.
About the ENTJ
"ENTJs are natural born leaders. They live in a world of
possibilities where they see all sorts challenges to be
surmounted, and they want to be the ones responsible
for surmounting them. They have a drive for leadership,
which is well-served by their quickness to grasp
complexities, their ability to absorb a large amount of
impersonal information, and their quick and decisive
judgments."
- Portrait of an ENTJ (The Personality Page)
"...have a strong natural urge to give structure and
direction wherever they are -- to harness people in the
field and to direct them to achieve distant goals."
- The Portrait of the FieldMarshal Rational (Keirsey)
"leader, ambitious, hard working, dominant, prepared,
hates to be bored, confident, opinionated, analytical..."
- Jung Type Descriptions (ENTJ) (similarminds.com)
62
""Unequivocating" expresses the resoluteness of the  Harrison Ford - actor (Indiana Jones)
ENTJ's dominant function (Extraverted Thinking). Clarity
of convictions endows these Thinkers with a knack for  Jim Carrey - actor, comedian
debate, or wanting knack, a penchant for argument. The
light and heat generated by Thinking at the helm can be  Margaret Thatcher - British Prime Minister
impressive; perhaps even overwhelming."
 Richard Nixon - American President
- ENTJ Profile (TypeLogic)
 Sigourney Weaver - actress
"At work, ENTJs contribute a wealth of energy directed
 Steve Martin - actor, comedian
toward the goals and those of the organization. Their
sense of identity is closely tied to how they carry out their
 Whoopi Goldberg - actress, comedian
responsibilities. They are curious about new ideas and
theories, evaluating them in terms of their goals. They
ENTJ Career
are very efficient, competitive, strategic, and task
focused."

- ENTJ - The Leader (Lifexplore)

 Business  Mortgage Banker
Administrator
 Manager
 Corporate
DETAILS Executive Officer  Politician
Preferences  Computer  Scientist
Consultant
E xtraverted; iN tuition; T hinking; J udging
 Systems Analyst
Temperament  Entrepreneur
 Teacher/Profess
NT (Intellectual)  Judge or

ENTJ Population  Lawyer/Attorney

Total: 4%; Male: 5.5%; Female: 2.5%

Primary; Secondary; Tertiary; Least

Function

Extraverted Thinking; Introverted Intuition;

Extraverted Sensing; Introverted Feeling

Real ENTJ People

 Al Gore - former American Vice President

 Bill Gates - Microsoft Founder

 Franklin D. Roosevelt - American President

63
INTP
Source: 16 personality types

INTP personality

January 26th, 2012 | Add a Comment

“Philosophers”, “architects”, “pensive professors”… These epithets are most often used to describe the INTP personality
type. Deeply immersed in their own exciting world of theoretical possibilities, INTPs believe that everything can be improved,
modified or made to suit a specific goal. This personality type values clarity, logic and insight more than anything else – and
being equipped with brilliant ability to effortlessly analyse difficult problems, see patterns and find logical explanations to
nearly everything, INTPs can be truly exceptional intellectuals.

The accumulated knowledge is the most valued asset of any INTP. Imagine an immensely complicated clockwork which is
constantly absorbing, processing and generating all kinds of theories – this is how the INTP mind works. People with the
INTP personality type possess the most logically precise mind of all personality types – they can easily notice even the tiniest
discrepancies between two statements, no matter how much time would have passed in between. It is a bad idea to lie to an
INTP. They may appear dreamy sometimes, but this is not because their mind is resting – quite the opposite.

INTPs approach all problems from the perspective of enthusiasm and scepticism, ignoring existing rules and opinions if
necessary. They drill through the details and then develop a unique approach and ultimately a viable solution. INTPs are
usually very intelligent and insightful people, able to remain unbiased in any situation. They absolutely love new ideas and
theories and would never miss an opportunity to discuss them with other people – however, this never-ending thinking
process also makes them look somewhat pensive and detached, as INTPs are perfectly able to conduct full-fledged debates
in their own heads.

INTPs cannot stand routine work – they would much rather tackle a difficult theoretical problem, leaving the practical
implementation to other people. INTP personalities really have no limits when it comes to theoretical riddles – if there is no
easy solution and the topic is interesting enough, an INTP can devote enormous amounts of time and energy to finding the
best answer.

INTPs also dislike managing or controlling other people. They are very tolerant and flexible in almost all situations, except
when INTP beliefs or logical conclusions are being criticised – if this happens, the INTP is likely to become very defensive
and argue tirelessly.

People with this personality type are usually very shy and reluctant when it comes to meeting other people. However, INTPs
can also be very friendly and confident when they interact with people they know well or talk about theories they have
mastered.

The main weakness of INTPs is that they dislike explaining their thoughts to other people, even though it is often obvious
that their theories are not easily graspable. INTPs may abandon a project as soon as they figure out how to implement it,
despite the fact that others may not understand their solution, which may be truly insightful. It is crucial for INTPs to
remember that even the most brilliant idea in the world is worthless if they are the only person who really understands it.

Sharing many personality traits with other T types, INTPs do not really understand or value decisions based on feelings or
subjective opinions. They are constantly trying to find logical solutions to existing problems and do not see a point in using
emotional arguments in a difficult situation. Such an approach preserves the “sanctity” of their intellectual method; however,
this also makes it difficult for INTPs to understand other people’s feelings or satisfy their emotional needs.

Individuals with the INTP personality type are likely to be very independent, unconventional and inventive. It is doubtful that
they will bother with the “usual” goals such as popularity or job security. INTPs often have complex personalities and can be
very passionate and determined. Combine this with their capacity for inventiveness and original thought patterns and you will
get a very powerful mix – it is not surprising that this personality type is responsible for many scientific discoveries. If the
surrounding environment allows the INTP to express their creative genius and potential, they can achieve truly extraordinary
results.

One of the few bottlenecks that INTPs impose upon themselves is their restless fear of possible failure. This personality type
spends a lot of time reflecting on their actions. In this case, uncertainty (arising from the P trait) merges with the need for
competency (the NT trait), causing never-ending thoughts that maybe, just maybe, there is an even better solution, or that
some crucial fact has been missed. There is one important observation to be made here – an intense argument does not
always mean that an INTP is trying to convince their opponent. They might well be trying to convince themselves. This is the
main difference between otherwise similar INTPs and INTJs – the latter type is usually much more confident in their
knowledge. Consequently, INTJs are able to follow their beliefs without many second thoughts – INTPs should try to
recognise the value of such an approach as well and incorporate this among their other personality traits.

When it comes to interpersonal relations, INTPs see three distinct phases: figuratively speaking, “immersion”, “survival” and
“resurfacing”. These phases reflect the logic of an INTP and their love for patterns. When getting into a new relationship,
INTPs can lose their rational and dispassionate thinking for a very long time (a year or even more), “immersing” themselves
in the new unknown world. If an INTP falls in love, it is extremely powerful – it is all or nothing. It is very likely that this phase
will see the INTP become very ardent, even playful and careless – they will not attempt to control or analyse the relationship,
but instead try to enjoy and experience the new feelings to the fullest. The INTP will be prepared to do many things and bend
many rules to be with their loved one, no matter how difficult that might be.

Once the relationship shifts to the “survival” phase, the INTP is likely to start paying more attention to its type and structure.
The INTP will also retreat a bit, mainly because they are simply returning to their natural, slightly reclusive state. It is also
worth to note that INTP personalities deeply value their commitments to the partner, but are unlikely to discuss such topics
with other people for a very simple reason – commitments of this nature seem perfectly logical and natural to an INTP.

INTP strengths and weaknesses

April 20th, 2012 | Add a Comment

The INTP personality type is truly unique with many interesting and enigmatic traits – however, every stick has two ends.
Most INTPs share the same strengths and weaknesses, as outlined below. If you have any comments or suggestions
concerning these lists, we would be delighted to hear from you – please leave a comment at the bottom of the page.

INTP strengths

 INTPs love and affection for people close to them are unusually strong and pure, even with hints of childlike
enthusiasm

 Relaxed, easy approach to life

 Huge enthusiasm when it comes to something the INTP is interested in

 Excellent imagination and creativity

 Resistance to conflict and criticism

 Simple needs

INTP weaknesses

 Poor sense of other people’s feelings and slow reaction to their emotional needs

 Uncomfortable when it is necessary to express their own feelings and emotions

 Tendency to view others with suspicion and caution

 Relatively poor practical skills, including money management

 Potential difficulties in leaving failed relationships

 Tendency to approach conflict situations by either ignoring them or unleashing uncontrollable anger

INTP relationships and dating

April 20th, 2012 | 1 Comment

INTPs take dating and romantic relationships in general very seriously, like many other things in their life. Their dating
partners should be aware that INTP personalities always stick to their commitments and are usually very loyal and faithful.
Dating an INTP and living with them is quite easy as they have simple daily needs and do not demand much from their
partners. This is a complete opposite of their inner world, which is bound to be very complex and colourful. However, there is
a certain logic behind this – INTPs purposefully seek simplicity in the “real” life so that they can focus all their mental power
on the inner world. This particular trait means that INTPs are very straightforward, honest dating and long-term partners,
known for their simple, pure and strong love.

Despite seeking simplicity in dating and romantic relationships, INTPs do not lack passion or romantic feelings. INTPs are
extremely creative individuals whose vivid imagination allows them to be very enthusiastic and passionate in romantic
relationships. Anyone dating an INTP may be quite surprised by this sometimes.

Sexually, INTPs approach intimacy with enthusiasm and certain impatience. While some INTPs prefer to diminish the
importance of this particular aspect, others use their rich imagination to achieve as much as possible in certain situations.
While such feats can be very impressive, INTPs should be aware of their tendency to prioritise the inner world – it is entirely
possible that an INTP will experience an intimate situation very vividly in their own head, but this will not always be obvious to
their dating or long-term partner.

Perhaps the biggest problem for INTPs while dating and later in long-term romantic relationships is that their personality type
is quite slow in noticing and fulfilling their partner’s emotional needs. INTPs may be very commited and dedicated to the
dating partner or a relationship, but it may be difficult for them to understand their partner’s feelings and show their own
emotional side. If this is likely to complicate the relationship, the INTP should pay more attention to their dating or long-term
partner’s feelings. Of course, their partner should also be aware of INTP personality traits and quirks, and try not to demand
constant flow of emotions from the INTP.

INTPs dislike dealing with situations that require emotional involvement, and interpersonal conflicts are primary candidates to
fit in such a category. Consequently, an INTP is likely to try to ignore any emotional conflicts in their romantic relationship,
especially if they are still in the dating phase. If there is no escape, the INTP will try to find a solution, but likely rely on the
analytical approach, which can be very different from what their partner might expect. For instance, almost all F types will
simply seek encouragement and display of affection in minor conflict situations rather than expect a logical solution – this can
leave the INTP quite confused, especially during the dating phase. Still, this is what many other perosnality types expect from
a romantic relationship – the INTP should try to include this in their thought process, especially when it comes to dealing with
conflicts in such an environment.

Preferred partners: ENTJ and ENFJ types.

We have prepared several INTP dating and relationship guides that you may be interested in. You might also want to take a
look at our Dating section (do not worry, it is completely free!).

INTP careers

May 27th, 2012 | 6 Comments

The INTP personality type possesses a unique combination of traits and typical INTP career choices reflect this as well. We
will now discuss the traits that make INTPs successful in their chosen careers – please feel free to suggest any additions or
simply leave some feedback in the comment section below this article.

Let us begin with one of the most prominent personality traits shared by all INTPs – their love for theoretical methods and
ideas. Best INTP careers turn this unique trait into a major strength, as very few other personality types enjoy theories as
much as INTPs do. For this particular reason, INTPs are excellent career scientists (especially in highly theoretical fields
such as physics or chemistry), mathematicians, technical writers or system analysts.

Next, INTPs enjoy finding and analysing underlying principles and ideas. Many typical career paths allow INTPs to utilise this
trait, even though this often comes with practical applications that do not really interest INTPs. For instance, INTPs can be
great corporate strategists, business analysts, video game designers, programmers or engineers (this career is particularly
suitable for INTPs due to their love for theory).

INTPs tend to be very independent (even somewhat eccentric), hold themselves to very high standards and dislike managing
other people or being managed, especially later in their career. These traits are rarely seen as attractive in modern corporate
world and INTPs should avoid mentioning them in a job interview – however, if their manager proves to be insightful and
open-minded enough, the INTP will be a never tiring generator of brilliant and unique ideas. Some of the best INTP careers
making good use of these traits may focus on legal, freelance consulting or forensic or laboratory research routes.
Finally, INTPs are typical “lone wolves” and typical INTP careers revolve around this trait. They live in their own minds, love
solitude and tend to despise small talk and other social necessities. INTPs do not really understand or enjoy emotional
exchanges and are unlikely to spend a significant amount of time chitchatting with their colleagues or customers. For these
reasons, customer-facing careers are highly unsuitable for INTPs – they would do much better in roles that focus on data
and theories rather than people. For instance, INTPs may be excellent lawyers, data analysts or even journalists, as long as
they find the field interesting – these are some of the best career choices for people with this personality type.

Being friends with an INTP

April 20th, 2012 | Add a Comment

INTPs live very dramatic and rich lives in their own heads. This inner world can easily overshadow the “real” life – for this
reason, INTPs may sometimes seem disinterested in the realities around them. This may also reduce their willingness to
form and maintain relationships with other people – it is very unlikely that an INTP will seek to have a large circle of friends or
acquaintances. Quite the opposite – INTPs tend to have a very small inner circle of friends they respect and value greatly.

Since INTPs tend to look inwards and seek solutions to various problems inside their own minds, they are not too good at
feeling other people’s emotional needs. On top of this, INTPs are notoriously difficult to get to know, as they do their best to
mask their traits and thoughts until the other person proves that they deserve to be accepted as members of the INTP inner
circle. As for the INTP criteria, knowledge and intelligence are at the top of the list – INTPs are likely to seek the friendship of
people they expect to possess such traits. This determines the very nature of INTP relationships – they are clear, strong and
straightforward, without any games or emotional baggage. This is what INTPs seek and expect.

It is likely that an INTP will seek friends who share some traits, hobbies and theoretical interests with them. As INTPs love
theories and real-life riddles, and thrive in a debate, they are bound to gravitate towards other N types. In contrast, S
personalities may find it quite difficult to cope with the endless stream of theoretical deliberations that an INTP can so easily
throw into any discussion.

INTP parents

April 20th, 2012 | 1 Comment

INTPs value and respect knowledge and intelligence, and they seek to instill such values in their children. This is the most
important goal for an INTP parent – to see their children become independent and rational adults.

It is likely that INTP parents will do everything to encourage the individualism of their offsprings, rather than try to cram them
into some kind of figurative structures. INTPs will stress the importance of independent thinking, respect the opinoins and
viewpoints of their children and allow them to have a voice in family decisions.

INTPs are also likely tot adopt a rather relaxed and informal approach towards their children, perhaps even to a point where
they will distance themselves form routing family matters, passing them oover to their partners. As INTPs themselves do not
really enjoy living in a structured environment, it is quite unlikely they will seek this for their own children. This can be a slight
problem, especially if the INTP partner is also a P – children do need some level of predictability and structure in their lives.
INTPs should be careful to avoid this issue – they should consciously try to help their children to distinguish the good from
the bad.

Despite having a rather unstructured and relaxed approach to parenhood, INTPs take their role as parents really seriously
and its is very likely that they will put a lot of effort into making sure that their children grow up to be independent and
intelligent adults. INTPs enjoy the parenthood and it is an exciting experience for them. It is also likely that INTPs will be very
loyal parents, immensely proud of their children.

It may be difficult for an INTP to meet the emotional needs of their children. Even though INTPs are usually very caring and
supportive parents, they do not always recognize the emotional signs that are being sent by their children. Consequently, the
INTP children may resort to rather drastic, attention-seeking measures, trying to force the INTP tot understand their
emotional state. INTPs should try to avoid this and do their best to recognize the emotional needs of their children –
sometimes even the slimpliest display of affection is enough to defuse the gathering storm.

INTP parents are likely to be remembered by their children with kindness and affection, as loyal, honest and tolerant
individuals who were really caring, even though that was not so obvious at times.
INTJ
INTJ personality

November 12th, 2011 | 4 Comments

One of the rarest (about 2% of the U.S. population) and most interesting types of personalities. INTJ personalities are
external observers, their personality radiates the aura of confidence. This self-confidence, sometimes confused with simple
arrogance by less insightful personalities, has a very specific nature – it comes from accumulated expertise in many different
areas. INTJs usually begin to develop their knowledge in early childhood (“bookworm” nickname is quite common among
INTJs). When INTJs have mastered their chosen areas of knowledge (INTJs can find their strengths in several fields), they
can honestly and quickly say whether they know the answer to a specific question.

INTJs know what they know and more importantly – they know that they know. They can be regarded as the most
independent of all personality types. People with the INTJ personality type are irreplaceable, where there is a need for
original ideas, decisiveness and quick solutions. However, INTJs do not need nor enjoy the spotlight and consequently tend
to keep their opinions to themselves, so this characteristic is not always easily distinguishable.

INTJ personalities are perfectionists, with an almost unlimited capacity to improve everything they find even remotely
interesting. However, since infinite improvement can be hindering, INTJs usually develop a unique coping mechanism – they
always, often quite harshly, ask themselves a question “Does it work?” It is common for an INTJ to question everything, from
their own research to social rules and behaviours. This results in an unusual independence of mind, liberating INTJ
personalities from social expectations, sentiments and psychological restrictions.

INTJ personalities can be described as “system builders”, mainly due to the fact that they have a unique combination of
imagination and reliability. INTJ imagination can be compared to a giant chess board – they assess all possible situations,
calculate strategic and tactical moves, and more often than not develop a contingency plan as well. If INTJs start working
with a new system, they regard the task as a moral obligation, merging their perfectionism and drive into one formidable
force. In the name of the project, INTJ will spare neither himself nor others. Anyone who does not have enough talent,
including the higher ranks of management, will immediately and likely permanently lose their respect.

INTJ personalities are also prone to shoulder the burden of making important decisions without consulting their peers. On the
other hand, INTJ are scrupulously honest, when it comes to assessing each person’s contribution to the project and they
have the gift of seeing various opportunities where others cannot.

People with INTJ personality type are naturally great leaders and excellent strategists, but they willingly give way to others
vying for a leadership position, usually people with extravert personalities (E personality type). However, such action can be
deceptive and maybe even calculated. INTJs will retreat into the shadows behind the curtain, maintaining their grip on the
most important decisions – but as soon as the leader fails and there is a need to take the steering wheel, INTJs will not
hesitate to act, maybe even while staying in the background.

INTJ personalities are the “idea people”. Everything is possible and everything is questionable. They may be idealists
(impossible is nothing) and cynics (everybody lies) at the same time. Whatever the circumstances, you can always rely on
INTJ to “fill in” the gaps in the idea. INTJs will listen to other people discussing “what is” and then ask “why?” or “why not?”.
INTJs take pleasure in creating unique solutions to difficult problems.

Generally speaking, INTJs usually prefer to work in the area they know very well. Their typical career is related to science or
engineering, but they can be found anywhere where there is a need of intelligence, restless mind and insight (law,
investigations, some academic fields). INTJ personalities can easily rise to managerial positions, if they have sufficient
willingness to demonstrate and improve their already existing capabilities. There must also be enough commitment to
simulate at least a certain level of conformism in order to conceal some of the unique INTJ characteristics, should they
choose to do so.

Interpersonal, and especially romantic, relationships are usually the weakest and most vulnerable spot of any INTJ. Despite
the fact that they are very capable of taking care of other people (that only applies to the “selected” ones) and may spend a
lot of time and effort to foster relations, the same knowledge and confidence that INTJ personalities have in other areas will
likely abandon them when it comes to personal matters.
This happens because more often than not INTJ do not want nor try to understand and adhere to some (according to them)
strange and illogical human interaction rituals. For example, their patience runs out quickly when they are forced to take part
in flirting or lightweight conversations “about the weather” (which most other types perceive as a necessary part of a
relationship). The situation is further complicated by the fact that INTJ usually highly appreciate their privacy and
consequently can be seen as passive in certain situations. INTJs, as described above, need to know that every action makes
sense, what they fail to see in some “social games”.

INTJ strengths and weaknesses

April 15th, 2012 | 8 Comments

Let’s take a look at INTJ strengths and weaknesses. If you believe something is missing or a specific trait does not belong
here, please leave a comment below.

INTJ strengths mostly revolve around their intelligence, determination and confidence. However, it is also important to note
that each strength can easily become a weakness if the INTJ is not careful.

INTJ strengths:

 Immune to conflict, criticism and emotional manipulation

 Confident in their abilities and knowledge

 Very strong drive and determination

 Serious attitude towards relationships and responsibilities

 Excellent ability to listen

 Usually very talented and insightful

 Able to swiftly terminate the relationship when necessary (INTJ will devote a lot of time to analysing the situation
before and after)

 Desire to constantly improve relations

INTJ weaknesses, on the other hand, mostly focus on their lower emotional sensitivity and a sense of intellectual superiority.
If you are an INTJ, you are probably thinking that there is nothing negative about these “weaknesses” – however, they should
be recognised and addressed because the INTJ personality tends to be quite “black and white”, which is not always
beneficial.

INTJ weaknesses:

 Poor understanding of emotions – INTJ can sometimes be insensitive

 Preferred reaction to any conflict – cold logic and rationality rather than the emotional support, which may be more
desirable

 Tendency to believe that they are always right

 Unwillingness or inability to accept blame

 Constant urge to improve everything could complicate relations

 Tendency to be fixated about the privacy and personal space

INTJ relationships and dating

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INTJ spend a large part of their lives in their heads. Dating or not, they are constantly scanning the environment, looking for
new ideas and theories that could result in plans and structures. Sometimes what they see and understand intuitively can be
much more advanced than a “bland” reality. As a result, INTJ imagination can sometimes cause problems in relationships
and during dating, when it comes to merging the fantasy with reality.

INTJ are uncomfortable expressing their feelings or trying to understand the expressions of other people. Also, they have a
tendency to always believe in their righteousness. Despite the fact that such self-confidence is attractive, the insensitiveness
of INTJs can sometimes inadvertently hurt other people, especially during the dating phase and even later in the relationship.
INTJs should recognise this and try to pay more attention to the emotional impact of their words, even though such concepts
do not come easily. INTJ mind is geared towards looking at the conflict situations as logical puzzles, worthy of analysis,
which does not always help when their dating partner does not share the same notion of fun.

Sexually, INTJs enjoy thinking about intimacy and are willing to try various methods to improve the experience. When the
relationship is great, the creativity and intensity of INTJ will be simply unsurpassed. However, if the relationship is more
complicated, INTJs will likely retreat to their heads and spend more time thinking about sex than actually having it. INTJ tend
to look at the intimacy from a theoretical, creative perspective – they rarely see it as an expression of love and affection.

INTJ may terminate the relationship if they are confident that it is at risk of breaking down, and go on with their lives. They
believe this is the right action. The INTJ approach to dating is quite similar – they will not keep trying if their mind is telling
them that the likelihood of a strong relationship is very low. However, the calm exterior can be deceiving – it is more than
likely that INTJ will feel very hurt inside and spend extensive amounts of time figuring out what went wrong, especially if they
had devoted a lot of time to dating or making the relationship work.

INTJ are bewilderingly deep and intelligent people, bringing a lot of sense, stability and insight into any romantic relationship.
However, their biggest asset, that extraordinary intelligence, is also their main enemy when it comes to dating or
relationships. INTJs tend to think about things instead of just doing it – while dating and romantic relationships often require a
certain amount of spontaneity. They may also have difficulties linking the reality with their inner vision. However, if both
partners survive the rocky start during the dating phase, it is very likely that the relationship will be very deep and strong –
and INTJ will do everything to ensure it stays that way, as long as the partner reciprocates.

Preferred partners: ENFP and ENTP types, as E and P outweigh the introvert and judgemental tendencies of INTJs. INFJs
are also a very strong match as the intuitive connection between INTJ and INFJ is likely to be instantaneous.

We have prepared several INTJ dating and relationship guides that you may be interested in. You might also want to take a
look at our Dating section (do not worry, it is completely free!).

INTJ careers

May 26th, 2012 | 1 Comment

This article will focus on typical INTJ careers, skills that people with this personality type bring into the workplace, and their
relationships with colleagues and managers. Please feel free to leave your comments or suggest other career paths below –
we will do our best to incorporate your suggestions.

INTJ personalities are known for their ability to digest difficult and complex theories and principles relevant to their careers,
and then convert them into clear and actionable ideas. INTJs are excellent strategists, possessing intuition and confidence
that allow them to devise and implement challenging long-term plans without many problems. These skills can be
tremendously valuable in the right career path – people with this personality type are great at jobs that involve planning,
strategy and application of complex theoretical principles. For instance, you could find many INTJs among project managers,
system engineers or marketing strategists. These are often their best career choices.

Typical INTJ careers also tend to put a lot of importance on independent thinking. INTJs love difficult challenges and strongly
detest routine, doing whatever they can to avoid or automate mind-numbing tasks. It is difficult to imagine an INTJ willingly
choosing a strictly administrative or teamwork-focused role. They excel as “lone wolves” and best INTJ careers revolve
around this trait, giving INTJs enough breathing space to use their creativeness and dedication without being constantly
questioned by other team members.
People with this personality type put effectiveness and competence above everything else. Consequently, best INTJ careers
reward personal initiative and determination. INTJs believe that everyone should do their best to complete the task to the
highest possible standard and loathe individuals who use social activities and networking rather than merit to get ahead on
the career ladder. There is no easier way to lose the respect of an INTJ than to show that you believe social skills and
relationships are more important than professional competence. INTJs have very high standards, especially when it comes
to their own work, and are likely to put an extraordinary amount of effort to get the job done. Consequently, typical INTJ
careers reward inventiveness, dedication and insightfulness.

INTJs tend to be very strong introverts with excellent analytical and creative skills. They are highly unlikely to choose or enjoy
customer-facing or teamwork-oriented careers – these are definitely not the best choices for INTJs. As already mentioned,
INTJs are brilliant strategists and planners, but they do best alone or in small teams. People with this personality type will
gladly accept someone else’s authority and leadership, as long as they see that individual as competent. These traits make
INTJs excellent engineers, military strategists, programmers, system analysts, lawyers or freelance consultants. These are
typical INTJ career paths and their performance in these areas is often very impressive.

Being friends with an INTJ

April 15th, 2012 | Add a Comment

INTJ believes in continuous improvement of relations, but expect all parties to maintain their independence. They regularly
perform some kind of “repair” projects trying to improve their own lives and existing relationships. INTJ friends take their
responsibilities very seriously and may be willing to change if they see something that could potentially improve existing
relationships. It is unlikely that INTJ will enjoy physical manifestations of feelings (hugs, touches, cuddling etc.) even with
close friends.

As dealing with feelings is not their strength, INTJs may sometimes be insensitive to their own emotional needs, not to
mention those of their friends. Nevertheless, INTJs are truly gifted and intelligent individuals who seek to always operate at
full potential and move in a positive direction. If an INTJ friend learns how to use these characteristics to improve
interpersonal relations and the other person is patient and understanding, it is very likely that the relationship will be
unusually stable and strong.

INTJs are usually quite difficult to read and it is even harder to become their friend. However, the people who do break
through the INTJ shields will really appreciate their ideas and knowledge. Despite the fact that INTJ friends are usually
serious and focused, they are also known for their characteristic bursts, when they truly relax and enjoy themselves. INTJ
friends can also be great storytellers with a wealth of jokes and sarcasm under their belt. They are also notorious for being
able to effortlessly hit others with punch lines, while maintaining a completely serious face.

It is unlikely that INTJ will spend their time with people with no common interests or characteristics. For this reason, INTJ are
usually very fond of other NT or NF types, as such people take pleasure in discussing various theories and ideas, and can
easily understand INTJ thoughts.

INTJ parents

April 15th, 2012 | 1 Comment

As parents, INTJs have one main goal – to raise their children as intelligent and independent people. They want the children
to think for themselves and make informed decisions, hence it is likely that INTJ parents will give them enough room to grow
but also try to gently challenge their ideas.

INTJs are not naturally caring and loving people, even though this changes slightly when they become parents. Since their
own need for love and affection is low, INTJs may encounter difficulties in trying to identify the needs of children with well-
developed F (feeling) characteristic. And even if they do recognize it, INTJ parents will not find it easy to provide the
necessary emotional support. In such cases, there will inevitably be a certain distance between the INTJ and their child. As
discussed in the Strengths and Weaknesses section, feelings are the weak spot for many INTJs and this capability should be
consciously developed.