INFP: Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving

INFP is a 4-letter acronym that stands for Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, and Perceiving. The INFP personality type is one of the 16 different types identified by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI).

The INFP personality type is often described as an "idealist" or "mediator" personality. People with this kind of personality tend to be introverted, idealistic, creative, and driven by high values.

INFPs want to make the world a better place and are interested in how they can best help others. They also strive to gain a greater understanding of themselves and how they fit into the world.

People with this personality type spend a lot of time exploring their own purpose in life and thinking about how they can use their skills and talents to best serve humanity.

"This personality type tends to devote themselves when interested in something, but can struggle to maintain enthusiasm when it is something they do not care about or are interested in," says Christopher Hansen, a licensed professional counselor at Thriveworks in Austin, TX.

Key INFP Characteristics

INFPs are known to be introverted, quiet, and reserved. Being in social situations can drain their energy, and they prefer interacting with a select group of close friends. While they like to be alone, this should not necessarily be confused with shyness. Instead, it simply means that INFPs gain energy from spending time alone. On the other hand, they have to expend energy in social situations.

INFPs typically rely on intuition and are more focused on the big picture rather than the nitty-gritty details. They can be quite meticulous about things they really care about or projects they are working on but tend to ignore mundane or boring details.

When it comes to making decisions, INFPs like to keep their options open. They often delay making important decisions just in case something about the situation changes. When decisions are made, they are usually based on personal values rather than logic.

Cognitive Functions of an INFP

The MBTI is based on a theory of personality created by Swiss psychoanalyst Carl Jung. Jung proposed that there are four psychological components of personality: thinking, feeling, sensation, and intuition. People then direct each of these cognitive functions inwardly (introverted) or outwardly (extraverted).

In the MBTI, each personality type is made up of a hierarchical stack of these functions. The dominant function largely controls personality, although it is supported by the auxiliary and, to a lesser degree, the tertiary functions. Inferior functions are those that are primarily unconscious but still exert some influence.

INFPs tend to rely on the following four cognitive functions:

Dominant: Introverted Feeling

INFPs experience a great depth of feelings but, as introverts, they typically process these emotions internally. They possess an incredible sense of wonder about the world and feel great compassion and empathy for others.

While these emotions are strong, INFPs tend not to express them outwardly, which is why they can sometimes be mistaken as aloof or unwelcoming.

Auxiliary: Extraverted Intuition

INFPs explore situations using imagination and 'what if' scenarios, often thinking through a variety of possibilities before settling on a course of action. Their inner lives are a dominant force in personality, and they engage with the outside world by using their intuition.

INFPs focus on the "big picture" and things that will shape the course of the future. This ability helps make them transformative leaders who are excited about making positive changes in the world.

Tertiary: Introverted Sensing

When taking in information, INFPs create vivid memories of the events. They will often replay these incidents in their minds to analyze experiences in less stressful settings. Such memories are usually associated with strong emotions, so recalling a memory can often seem like reliving the experience itself.

Inferior: Extraverted Thinking

This cognitive function involves organizing and making sense of the world in an objective and logical manner. While it is a mainly unconscious influence on the INFP's personality, extraversion can show itself in times of pressure. When faced with stress, an INFP might suddenly become very pragmatic and detail-oriented, for instance, focusing on logic rather than emotion.

Because they are typically ruled more by intuition and emotion, INFPs can sometimes struggle to feel productive and efficient. Learning to develop the extraverted thinking function can help people with the INFP personality type create a better sense of balance.

Personal Relationships With INFPs

INFPs are idealists so they tend to have high expectations—including in relationships. They might hold an idealized image in their minds of their perfect partner, which can be a difficult role for any individual to fill.

People with an INFP personality type care deeply about other people. Yet, as introverts, they can be difficult to know. They do tend to become very close and deeply committed to the few that they forge close relationships with.

INFPs also dislike and try to avoid conflict. When conflicts or arguments do arise, they usually focus more on how it makes them feel rather than the actual details. During arguments, INFPs might seem overly emotional or even irrational. However, they can also be good mediators by helping others involved in a conflict identify and express their feelings.

"This personality type does not necessarily avoid people, they simply prefer close friends and small groups and like their alone time," says Hansen.

Because they are so reserved and private, it can be difficult for other people to get to know INFPs. They tend to be quite devoted to their circle of close friends and family and place high importance on the feelings and emotions of their loved ones.

Career Paths for INFPs

INFPs typically do well in careers where they can express their creativity and vision. While they work well with others, they generally prefer to work alone. 

INFPs tend to be very creative, artistic, and spiritual. They are often skilled with language but may prefer to express their thoughts and feelings through writing rather than speaking.

Because they have strong ethics and values, INFPs also become passionate about advocating or defending their beliefs. While they feel strongly about their own values, they are also interested in learning more about others and are willing to listen and consider many sides of an issue.

Tips for Interacting With INFPs

If you are friends with an INFP, are somehow engaged with an INFP parent, or are involved in a relationship with an INFP, here are a few interaction tips.

Friendships

INFPs typically have only a few close friendships, but these relationships are generally long-lasting. While people with this type of personality are adept at understanding others' emotions, they often struggle to share their own feelings with others.

Social contact can be difficult, although INFPs crave emotional intimacy and deep relationships. Getting to know an INFP can take time and work, but the rewards can be great for those who have the patience and understanding.

Parenting

INFP parents are usually supportive, caring, and warm. They are good at establishing guidelines and helping children develop strong values.

An INFP's goal as parents is to help their children grow as individuals and fully appreciate the wonders of the world. They may struggle to share their own emotions with their children and are often focused on creating harmony in the home.

Relationships

As with friendships, INFPs may struggle to become close to potential romantic partners. Once they do form a relationship, they approach it with a strong sense of loyalty.

If your partner is an INFP, understand that they may struggle at times to open up. They may also be overly sensitive to perceived criticisms and will often place your happiness over that of their own.