Psychological Type Descriptions:
INFP
Description:
INFPs are the idealistic dreamers among the types. They usually retain their sense of wonder and are likely to view the world as full of extraordinary experiences which others seem to miss. With nearly limitless compassion and understanding of others, INFPs can often see good in those who other types might find abhorrent. INFPs deeply resonate with the feelings of others, and this can sometimes become painful to them. An INFP usually begins developing a rich and wonderful fantasy life while he or she is still a child. Surrounded by more concrete and practical parents and siblings, and driven to please others, INFPs often come to view themselves as too fanciful and flawed in some way-rather than just rare, which at 1-3% of the population they are. This may carry into adulthood as a fascination in the potential each of us has for good and for bad. INFPs may be described by acquaintances as somewhat cool and distant, but their close friends will recognize their sympathy and depth of feeling.
Potential Blindspots:
As with any type, INFPs can encounter problems in certain areas. For instance, the intense sensitivity of the INFP can lead him or her to be easily hurt by criticism. Similarly, INFPs will often avoid conflict even when it might be helpful. This tendency can be overcome if the INFP chooses to focus on developing assertiveness for their ideas. Their pull for congruence is sometimes held in a perfectionistic way and can lead INFPs to feel inadequate in themselves and to become negative about their surrounding. INFPs may sometimes spend so much time reflecting on and refining their thoughts and feelings that they forget to share them with others. Adding to the problems associated with this internal focus is the tendency of the INFP to discount logic and practical considerations. INFPs can become so wedded to an ideal that they loose touch with the reality of the situation around them-even to the point where others consider them flighty or mystical.
Possible Careers to Consider:
- Psychologist
- Journalist
- Editor
- Social Scientist
- Educational Consultant
- Humanities Professor
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- Entertainer
- Speech Pathologist
- Missionary
- Architect
- Noveslist/Poet/Artist
- Counselor
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- Religious Educator
- Employee Development
- Social Worker
- Minister/Priest
- Researcher
- Actor
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Return to the Personality Type Descriptions list.
Last updated: 1 October 2002
Maintained by: John
W. Hall, PhD - john@drjohnhall.com
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