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An Introduction to Socionics Part 2: The Functions of Model A

Joined
Dec 7, 2008
Messages
271
MBTI Type
ENTP
Enneagram
7w8
Instinctual Variant
sp/sx
Model A – Named “A” after Aušra Augustinavičiūtė herself, Model A is the most prolific model in Socionics for the structuring of the eight IM Elements, sorting each of them into one of eight functions which have a particular effect on how we approach that kind of information. Each of the 16 types can be identified through its unique structuring in this model, showing how they vary in their strength and valuing of each kind of information metabolism.


Function – Model A is comprised of eight functions which each of the eight IM Elements are assigned to depending on your type. The function details how each type approaches its assigned IM Element, determining its level of strength, consciousness and whether it is valued or not. These are the Leading function, Creative function, Role function, Vulnerable function, Suggestive function, Mobilising function, Ignoring function and Demonstrative function in that order.


Mental/Vital – The eight functions can be divided by this dichotomy based on how aware we are of the functions. Those kinds of information which are assigned to mental functions are in our conscious, meaning that we are actively aware of them. Those which are assigned to vital functions are in our unconscious, meaning that we are unaware of their effects on us from day to day.


Strong/Weak – Depending on our type, certain kinds of information metabolism will be strong or weak, meaning we find it easy or difficult to act on that kind of information effectively. Strength/Weakness can be divided into four levels, known as Dimensionality which varies from One-Dimensionality to Four-Dimensionality:

  • One-Dimensionality (1D) – Very Weak. We can only use these kinds of information at the most basic and rudimentary level.

  • Two-Dimensionality (2D) – Weak. We have to work at these kinds of information to achieve adequacy in it. Usually its use will be tiring to maintain.

  • Three-Dimensionality (3D) – Strong. We can easily and readily metabolise these kinds of information, acting on them as and when we wish.

  • Four-Dimensionality (4D) – Very Strong. These kinds of information are so prevalent in us that they strongly dictate how we move and communicate in the world. People can easily be recognised by the IM Elements assigned to these strongest functions.


Valued/Subdued – Depending on our type, certain kinds of information metabolism will be valued or subdued (not valued), meaning we will appreciate those kinds of information in our surroundings or reject/avoid them.


Blocks – By combining the Strong/Weak and Valued/Subdued dichotomies, we form the four blocks which the eight functions can be separated into:

  • Ego – Mental, Strong and Valued. The most apparent part of our personality. IM Elements in the Ego Block are those which we actively bring to the world, conducting ourselves and affecting our surroundings according to them.

  • Super-Ego – Mental, Weak and Subdued. The painful expectations of society on us. IM Elements in the Super-Ego Block are those which we are expected by others to use but which we have no wish for and no ability to deliver. As a result, these kinds of information are a constant source of neurosis.

  • Super-Id – Vital, Weak and Valued. The unconscious needs we find help with from others. IM Elements in the Super-Id Block are those which we are generally blind to but which we find ourselves being drawn to when supplied by others. We enjoy these kinds of information and find ourselves appreciating people who readily provide them.

  • Id – Vital, Strong and Subdued. The rejected approaches. We look down upon IM Elements in the Id Block as the alternative but incorrect ways of doing what we accomplish in our Ego. Instead of pursuing these kinds of information, we unconsciously carry them out as side effects of our natural motives, fulfilling the need with proficiency but without appreciation.


Ego1 (4D)Leading – The main program. Our actions and motivations are dictated by this function with it being responsible for our temperament.2 (3D)Creative – The helping function that works flexibly in order to serve the demands of the Leading function, helping them to be accomplished well.
Super-Ego4 (1D)Vulnerable – The source of pain and frustration. We are unable to satisfy the demands of others on this function and loathe criticism in this area.3 (2D)Role – The act we have to put on to satisfy worldly demands. We do not enjoy this and can only keep it up so long before tiring.
Super-Id6 (1D)Mobilising – The area we wish to improve ourselves in. We are drawn to acting on these areas but without some help can sometimes slip up.5 (2D)Suggestive – The source of enjoyment and growth. We crave stimulation and help in this function from others but are incapable of satisfaction in it alone.
Id7 (3D)Ignoring – The opposite approach to our leading function. It is rejected by us and seen as unimportant. We can easily use this when needed however.8 (4D)Demonstrative – As strong as our Leading function, this is demonstrated in our behaviour almost as a mockery, abused for purposes outside itself.


Example of Model A for an ILE. As you can see, the IM Elements are drawn in their symbolised form in each of the function squares:

model A.jpg
 
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