INFP - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
"Shadow functions
Later personality researchers (notably Linda V. Berens)[22] added four additional functions to the descending hierarchy,
the so-called "shadow" functions to which the individual is not naturally inclined but which can emerge when the person is under stress. For INFP, these shadow functions are (in order):
Extraverted Feeling (Fe): Fe seeks social connections and creates harmonious interactions through polite, considerate, and appropriate behavior. Fe responds to the explicit (and implicit) wants of others, and may even create an internal conflict between the subject’s own needs and the desire to meet the needs of others.[23]
Introverted Intuition (Ni): Attracted to symbolic actions or devices, Ni synthesizes seeming paradoxes to create the previously unimagined. These realizations come with a certainty that demands action to fulfill a new vision of the future, solutions that may include complex systems or universal truths.[24]
Extraverted Sensing (Se): Extraverted sensing focuses on the experiences and sensations of the immediate, physical world. With an acute awareness of the present surroundings, it brings relevant facts and details to the forefront and may lead to spontaneous action.[25]
Introverted Thinking (Ti): Ti seeks precision, such as the exact word to express an idea. It notices the minute distinctions that define the essence of things, then analyzes and classifies them. Ti examines all sides of an issue, looking to solve problems while minimizing effort and risk. It uses models to root out logical inconsistency.[26]"
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
"Looking at the diametrically opposite four-letter type, INFP:
Extraverted function is a perceiving function (S-N) because of the P preference
Introverted function is dominant because of the I preference
Dominant function is therefore introverted feeling (Fi)
Auxiliary function is extraverted intuition (Ne)
Tertiary function is the opposite of the Auxiliary: sensing
Inferior function is the opposite of the Dominant: extraverted thinking (Te)
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."
If the shadow functions only surfaced under stress, wouldn't they all be as erratic and annoying as my Te is? I rather like using my shadow functions. Se is pretty fun, Fe helps me to not stomp all over people, Ti is important to my writing and conflict mediating, and I get Ni thoughts quite a bit (mini-premonitions, like oh crap, something really bad is about to happen, I gotta stop this trainwreck before it happens), but I don't have as much control over it as the others. The description of my Te is pretty spot on.
I think the difference is I use the shadow functions individually and not necessarily in conjuntion with the others, unlike my "default" INFP functions.