[edcoaching]

Originally Posted by curiouscat

I'm an ESTP according to the MBTI tool. Whenever I see the description I sort of agree with it. However,According to MBTI The difference between T and F is that T makes decisions based on logic and analysis and F based on values.

I find that definition difficult to understand because I definitely use my values in my decision making, I do care about how people feel and how they would be affected, I get upset by negative feedback, and I value true harmony.
( based on this I'm an F)

However, I do like equality, I think people should be treated fairly ( in a T way), I analyse the data available for making a decision, I do my pro and cons list to make a decision, and it needs to feel right. ( I'm mostly a t, but the decision is based on feeling right)

I value competence and recognition for my output rather than my effort. ( I'm a T)

This is a sweeping generalisation, but I find F avoid confrontation or conflict like the plague hoping it will go away ( searching for superficial harmony), they sweep conflict under the carpet and pretend is not there, and they seem to think there are no rules just exceptions.

So my questions are how do you differentiate between learned behaviour and true type, when they are so close? How do you experience the difference between t and f? How is the decision making for an F different from a T?
p.s. examples would be great I am an S.
Help!!!

One of the ways is to think back to adolescence when theory says you would have been developing either T or F. Which came first?

• It is more common for ESFPs to get blocked from learning in early years if they aren't sure a teacher likes them. Critique cuts to the quick and they may give up. ESTPs don't really like critique either but they aren't worried all the time about relationships...
• ESTPs and ESFPs both want to DO things--be outside, run around, climb, etc. But ESTPs often want people along when they need them--for a team or to help row the boat or whatever. ESFPs are more about the relationships
• You can think about whether adolescence was about critiquing life (what's wrong with everything) or inner reflection on authenticity (who you really wanted to be...). That is, if they sit still long enough...

I'm not trying to be superficial but instead give prompts that might help you think about whether T or F emerged first--which is nature vs learned skill...