MBTI personality type: INFP - Therapist
INFPs are imaginative idealists who are guided by their own core values and beliefs. For the therapist, possibility is what matters; present reality is only a temporary concern. They see the potential for a better future and use their gifts to pursue truth and meaning.
INFP personality type
INFPs are sensitive, loving, compassionate, and deeply concerned with the personal growth of themselves and others. Individualistic and non-judgmental, INFPs believe that everyone must find their own path. They enjoy taking time to explore their own ideas and values and gently encourage others to do the same. INFPs are creative and often artistic; they enjoy finding new ways to express themselves.
What does INFP stand for?
INFP is one of sixteen personality types created by Katharine Briggs and Isabel Myers, the creators of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). INFP stands for Introversion, iNtuition, Feeling, and Perceiving, which are four core personality traits based on the work of psychologist CG Jung.
Each of the four letters of the INFP code represents key personality traits of this type. INFPs are motivated by time alone (Introversion), focus on ideas and concepts rather than facts and details (Intuition), make decisions based on feelings and values (Feeling), and prefer spontaneity and flexibility to planning and organization (Perceiving) .
The INFP personality type is also known as the ‘healer’ because of their compassionate idealism and gentle compassion for others. Other nicknames for INFPs include:
- Thoughtful idealist
- mediator
INFP Values and Motivations
INFPs value authenticity and want to remain original and individual in what they do. They are often concerned with finding meaning and truth within themselves. Following tradition has little appeal to INFPs; they prefer to explore values and ideas on their own and decide for themselves what is right. INFPs are often alternative and unconventional, but they don’t want to conform. INFPs would rather stay true to themselves than try to fit in with the crowd.
INFPs are accepting and nonjudgmental in their treatment of others, believing that everyone must follow their own path. They are flexible and easy-going and often see many perspectives. Supporting others is important to INFPs; however, INFPs may react strongly if they feel their values have been violated. They especially hate being silenced by those who insist there is only one right way to do things. INFPs want an open, supportive exchange of ideas.
How others view INFP
INFPs may seem a little cold at first because they only share their thoughts and feelings with those they trust. They are reflective, often spiritually oriented, and enjoy meaningful exchanges about values, ethics, humanity, and personal growth. Therapists are typically curious and open, always seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and others. They are passionate about their ideals, but also very private; few people understand how deeply INFPs hold their beliefs.
INFPs are sensitive and empathetic, searching for meaning and authenticity throughout their lives. This type of person doesn’t care much about the minutiae of life and is more concerned with interesting ideas than actual facts. They usually accept others unconditionally and may be interested in non-mainstream views or lifestyles. They have a special affinity for art, especially avant-garde art, as they like to explore new concepts in self-expression.
For more information: [‘Reading People: Deciphering the Code of Human Behavior’](https://union-click.jd.com/jdc?e=618%7Cpc%7C&p=JF8BATcJK1olXgEDUF5eCk4QBV8IGloTWQUBVFlVCUkeA19MRANLAjZbERscSkAJHTdNTwcKARlZAUEPVhcJRT9LT0VSBVJES w4PTRNJXGFOSxhBJVMOVF9cDk8UAG8PE1oXVAYyHF4PCBl_X2xreFx9NAVZEBoeQw9fRWMEK14VXAc KXVZYC0gnAG4KG1ISXgMFV25tCEgnQgEIGlwWXg8BXG5fCEoWA2sOG1kdbQYFXVtaD0gWAWoJHl8lW gYLZAUIZk8SB2dYHlJFDwcLV15tOHsUM2gIEk8TL0dQQFgvOHsXM2w4G1oVVAAAUFldD0ILA2sNHV gWQQYFXVtaD0gWA2YLGVklXwcDUFdtOHtifjFRZj8UD2AGKQIlSS5xemZ9TSASWVFsVi0iCS9VBWhw fR9jIGFkNh8DOA)
How rare is the INFP personality type?
INFP composition:
- 6.3% of the total population
- 7.6% women
- 4.9% of men
PsycTest Free MBTI Personality Test:
psyctest.cn
INFP Celebrities
INFP celebrities include:
- Audrey Hepburn
- Winona Ryder
-Alicia Keys - John Lennon
- Kim Taehyung (V)
- Kurt Cobain
- Keanu Reeves
-Tori Amos
-Morrissey
-Chloe Sevigny - William Shakespeare
- Bill Watson
- AA Milne
- Helen Keller
- Carl Rogers
- Isabel Briggs Myers (creator of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator)
Facts about INFP
Interesting facts about INFP:
- In the personality trait measure, scores were artistic, reflective, careless, sensitive, flexible and appreciative.
- Least likely of all types to develop heart disease.
- Men were least likely to report chronic pain.
- ranks second among all types of reported marital dissatisfaction.
- Suicidal thoughts are most likely to occur during college.
-Tend to be more successful than average at learning foreign languages. - Among the types most likely to be dissatisfied with their jobs.
- Personal values include autonomy and creativity.
- Careers in consulting, writing, and the arts are overrepresented.
INFP hobbies and interests
Popular INFP hobbies include poetry, creative writing, music, photography, theater, and visual arts.
Advantages of INFP
idealism. INFPs care deeply about others and believe it is their responsibility to do their best to have a positive impact on the lives of others. Because of this unwavering commitment, INFPs are capable of great self-sacrifice, and they will not compromise their moral standards for personal gain. INFPs firmly believe that humans have unlimited potential to achieve extraordinary things, and they can always be counted on to provide encouragement or material support to those seeking to expand their horizons.
Upright. Integrity means everything to an INFP, including intellectual and moral integrity. Some may accuse INFPs of being overly imaginative, or of being willing to stretch logic to its limits in order to find a deeper meaning that they insist must exist, but there is no denying that the deeply reflective nature of INFPs allows them to push beyond boundaries, and imagination often Preventing us from discovering new solutions to old problems.
compromise. As empathetic idealists, a harmonious relationship is like balm to the INFP’s soul. INFPs are very effective as mediators in a family setting or when working in a team because they have a legitimate interest in everyone’s perspectives and will go to great lengths to ensure that everyone gets a fair hearing. They are passionate advocates of collaboration and believe that no difficulty is insurmountable when people work together for a common cause.
Dedication. It’s easy to pay lip service to virtues like compassion, creativity, ingenuity, and open-mindedness, but these ideas don’t mean much unless they can be translated into real-world applications. Luckily, INFPs are masters at this. Passionate and committed to their cause, these individuals have the unique ability to shape and change their surroundings, thereby promoting self-improvement and transcendent achievement for all.
INFP Weaknesses
Sensitivity. INFPs’ deep compassion, sensitivity, and commitment to creativity allow them to approach relationships in a constructive manner. But these feelings can also leave them vulnerable to feelings of disillusionment and intense existential anxiety. When INFPs find that their idealism is not always shared or respected by others, their drive to passionately explore the world may eventually evaporate, and their extraordinary talents can be completely wasted when they become too discouraged to continue. .
unrealistic. While standing up for justice and dignity is admirable, their strong emotions can sometimes cause INFPs to refuse to compromise, even when doing so may be necessary to achieve something. Staying true to one’s morals is praiseworthy, but in the real world nothing can be achieved unless the INFP can find a way to give and receive some compromise and find practical, if not perfect, solutions to problems.
Selfless. If INFPs believe it is necessary to keep the peace or make others happy, they tend to ignore or suppress their own needs. When a person keeps his or her insecurities bottled up for too long, it can eventually lead to an outburst or emotional breakdown. Sensitive INFPs often suffer in silence, which is a shame because INFPs and their companions usually have many people who care about them and will be more than happy to help them deal with their pain and disappointment.
Bugs. Compassionate INFPs lead with their hearts rather than their heads, which can sometimes get them into trouble. Unfortunately, there are people who are always looking for easy targets, and from these people’s perspective, the INFP might as well have a flashing neon sign on their forehead that says ‘Exploit me, exploit me!’ Trust. is a wonderful thing, but not so wonderful when it makes you gullible.
More details: [Psychotype](https://union-click.jd.com/jdc?e=618%7Cpc%7C&p=JF8BAQQJK1olXQUBV1tbDEMWBV8LHF4UXgIAVV5VAXtTXDdWRGtMGENDFlVDFhNSVzMXR0ROCBlQCgJDThtUV3FPQw9TQlZQEQYDV0VRUyx cYw4ZXgEHVV1ZCkoXC2Y4ewMLQ25-VxY9FhtoYhRRSF9PPgdrAlJROE4XAm4AElMQXgUyV19fCEIQAGoPGGslXQUyFTBbCkMXA2s4GVsUXAYGUl5fAHsXBGkLG1gXXQECV1teOEwXCl9TTjURWAIKBFtUWBkW CmwIK2slXjYFVFdJDjlWUXsOaWslXTYBZBwzABwfVGgBH1wVXFUKUV4IWEJCBG8AS14WWFMEUQxZAUknAW4JH1IlbQ)
Growth and Development of INFP
To reach their full potential, INFPs should:
Learn to recognize the difference between compromise and concession. People who disagree with INFPs just see things from a different perspective, but to INFPs it feels like they are being backed into a corner. INFPs cannot be stubborn and must find a way out of the impasse so that they can more clearly understand the motivations of their opponents. If it’s just differences in values rather than a lack of values that cause disagreements, then INFPs shouldn’t expect others to give in to their stubbornness any more than they would force themselves to wear shoes that don’t fit.
Make sure dreams and fantasies are used to augment reality rather than replace it. INFPs, who view the world through idealistic eyes, often see majestic beauty and infinite possibilities that others cannot perceive. But INFPs sometimes choose to retreat into these fantasies rather than use them to solve real-world problems. Imagination can open doors to better possibilities, and INFPs should never lose sight of its transformative potential.
Learn to respect details. No matter how creative a new idea is, it won’t get anywhere if the logistical details required to bring it to life are overlooked or ignored. INFPs may find this aspect of the creative process a bit boring, but they should challenge themselves to overcome their apathy and pay attention to all these annoying details anyway.
SEEKING LEADERSHIP POSITION. INFPs have strong egalitarian instincts, are natural mediators, are passionate about the effectiveness of collaboration, and are excellent listeners who never ignore when someone has a new idea to share. These admirable qualities double as excellent leadership skills, and anyone who possesses them should not avoid leadership positions simply because they are not extroverted. Most importantly, leaders must gain the respect of those they lead, and INFPs are as capable of earning this respect as any other personality type.
Accept yourself unapologetically. Because their standards are so high, INFPs have a hard time forgiving themselves when they fail to live up to their expectations. They may also become indecisive and fall into such extreme perfectionism that it cuts off their creativity and prevents them from excelling and achieving. This dynamic is unfortunate, especially since an INFP would never think of holding anyone else to such impossible standards. For the sake of their mental health and happiness, INFPs must learn to stop comparing themselves to others and realize that they should prioritize their own happiness.
INFP at work
INFPs are not particularly motivated by money or status at work, preferring to do work that aligns with their personal values and allows them to help others. INFPs are often motivated by vision and inspiration and want to be involved in projects and causes that are important to them.
INFPs enjoy creative problem solving, are willing to understand complex issues, appreciate innovation, and want to come up with original ideas to improve people’s situations. An ideal job like a therapist allows them to express their personality in the way they work and utilize their ability to see unique solutions.
INFPs like to work autonomously and have control over how and when projects are completed. They usually enjoy participating in team activities, although they want the freedom to put their own personal stamp on their work. It’s important to INFPs to be cooperative, supportive, and flexible when they work with others, and they want to work with people who share similar passions and ideals to themselves.
For more information: [‘Self-cultivation of Type 16 Personality’](https://union-click.jd.com/jdc?e=618%7Cpc%7C&p=JF8BATcJK1olXwUHUVpVCEwQAV8IGloTXgEEXVtdCUMSAl9MRANLAjZbERscSkAJHTdNTwcKARlZAUEPVhcJRT9LT0VSBVJESw4 PTRNJXGFOSxhBJVMOVF9cDkgQBWYNG1odWAcyHx0rdA8QYRhqXFhIIxhVKikEDzEVRWMEK14VXAcKXV ZYC0gnAG4KG1ISXgMFV25tCEgnQgEIGFIUVQcBVG5fCEoWA2sOG1kdbQYFXVtaD04XAW8BHFIlWgYLZ AUIZk8SB2dYHlJFDwcLV15tOHsUM2gIEk8TL0dQQFgvOHsXM2w4G1oVVQQFXV5UDU8LA24PEl4RQQY Q5aKjgjOA) MBTI is a unique personality analysis method. This book uses it as a tool to explore how type 16 people can improve themselves. Provide proven methods and growth plans that can be used immediately. After reading this book, you can easily know what type your personality is. In your career, what are your strengths that you can leverage and what weaknesses you need to control. The important thing is that it is a guide tailor-made for you to help you get rid of confusion and become the ideal self in your mind! You can also teach yourself through this book! It takes a short time to understand what type other people are. Know the other person’s preferences and characteristics, and know whether the other person is a suitable friend, work partner or partner for you!
INFP Career Statistics
- Second lowest average income of all categories, $31,508
- Most likely of all types to stay home with children
- Fourth lowest job satisfaction of all types
- Slightly above average likelihood of being self-employed
Popular Careers for INFPs
Caring and creative INFPs tend to choose careers that express their personalities and values. Many INFPs find careers in helping others, where they can bring help to others through compassion and empathy. INFPs also often choose creative or artistic careers, which allow them to think freely and become their unique selves.
Popular careers for INFPs include:
- Art, Design and Communication: Artist, fashion designer, graphic designer, multimedia artist or animator, editor, film editor, interpreter or translator, photographer, PR specialist, writer
- Science and Healthcare: Anthropologists, Psychologists, Sociologists, Chiropractors, Nutritionists, Genetic Counselors, Massage Therapists, Midwives, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Speech-Language Pathologists, veterinarian, veterinary technician
- Community and Social Services: Mental health counselor, school or career counselor, community services manager, social worker
- Education and Libraries: Archivist or librarian, primary school teacher, librarian, early childhood teacher, professor or university lecturer, special education teacher
- Business and Management: Fundraising, Human Resources Specialist, Training or Development Manager
INFP in a team
As a supportive and imaginative team player, the INFP contributes to the team’s mission by understanding their teammates’ ideas and working to promote unity. They listen openly and honestly to many perspectives and are adept at coming up with creative solutions that incorporate the ideas and priorities of all involved. They are flexible and innovative thinkers willing to consider almost any option as long as it aligns with their values.
INFPs work best in teams that are guided by a vision and want to have a true understanding of the team’s goals. They want team members who are equally committed to a cause and willing to explore possibilities to achieve their ideals. INFPs may feel alienated by teams that focus solely on action without considering deeper issues or alternatives.
INFPs seek an environment of mutual support and acceptance, and may have trouble in groups with a lot of conflict or competition. Lack of judgment and negative emotions often stifle their creative talents for problem solving.
INFP as a leader
In leadership positions, INFPs inspire others through encouragement and a positive vision. They are highly idealistic and bring calm determination and leadership when working for causes they consider important. They often see potential in others and are good at inspiring others to develop their talents.
As supportive, creative leaders, INFPs encourage their teams to think outside the box. Due to their flexible nature and strong desire for harmony, they may avoid conflict and put off difficult decisions. They are best at leading collaborative teams of like-minded individuals who are equally committed to their vision.
Careers to avoid for INFPs
It’s important to note that any personality type can be successful in any career. However, some careers are well-suited to the INFP’s talents and preferred work styles, while others require patterns of thought and behavior that are not natural for this type. Careers that require INFPs to work outside of their natural preferences can be stressful or draining, and are often unattractive to INFPs who are choosing a career.
According to data we collected from surveys of the general population, the following occupations are less popular among INFPs.
💔 | 💔 | 💔 |
---|---|---|
Military Officer | Electrician | Financial Manager |
Police Officer | Systems Analyst | Auditor |
Materials Engineer | Sales Manager | Cost Estimator |
Engineering Technician | Chemist | Dentist |
Chemical Engineer | Licensed Practical Nurse | Judge |
INFP and other personality types
Like-minded
The following types of people are more likely than most to share the INFP’s values, interests, and general lifestyle. They won’t necessarily agree on everything, and there’s no guarantee they’ll always get along, but they’re more likely to feel relaxed and comfortable and have a lot in common.
- INTP
- INFP
- INFJ
- ENFP
Interesting differences
The following types of people may find INFPs similar in personality, but there are some key differences that may make them particularly interesting to watch. INFPs may find these types of people particularly interesting and attractive to get to know. Relationships between INFPs and these types should have a good balance of common ground and opportunities to challenge each other.
- ISFP
- INTJ
- ENTP
- ENFJ
Potential additions
INFPs may not feel an immediate connection to the following types of people, but after getting to know each other, they may find that they have some important things in common, as well as something to teach each other. While these types of people may not initially attract INFPs, their relationships present a lot of potential for complementation and mutual learning.
- ISTP
- ISFJ
- ESFP
- ENTJ
Challenge the Opposite
The following types of people are most likely to have personality conflicts and conflicts with INFPs, but also have the best opportunities for growth. Because these types have fundamentally different values and motivations than INFPs, it may seem impossible to connect initially. But because they are so different, their strengths are the INFP’s weaknesses, and they can learn a lot from each other if they can form a relationship.
- ISTJ
- ESTP
- ESTJ
- ESFJ
INFP in Love
In relationships, INFPs are nurturing, empathetic, and loyal. They choose their friends and partners carefully, looking for strong bonds and aligned values. They are self-aware and often spiritual.
INFPs tend to be open-minded and accepting of the behaviors and preferences of others, as long as it doesn’t violate their core values. They support their partner’s individuality and encourage them to explore their interests and ideas.
INFPs look for ways to compromise and accommodate others, and often have creative solutions to relationship problems. They can be very sensitive but often keep negative reactions to themselves because they are unwilling to engage in confrontation.
Close and harmonious relationships are important to INFPs, although they also need a lot of independent time to think and reflect. They often want full freedom to express themselves and pursue a higher sense of self. They value a partner who is loyal and loving while providing them with the support they need to independently explore the mysteries of life.
INFP as a parent
As parents, INFPs are caring, supportive, and adaptable. They rarely create strict or structured families, preferring to solve problems and situations as they arise. Typically, they allow their children a great deal of freedom and influence in decision-making and may leave the task of setting and enforcing family rules to the other parent.
INFP children often find themselves able to express themselves freely and make their own decisions, until they violate the core values of their INFP parent. Therapist parents become steadfast when values are challenged.
For more information: [‘Please Understand Me: Kelsey’s Personality Type Analysis’](https://union-click.jd.com/jdc?e=618%7Cpc%7C&p=JF8BATcJK1olXQAKXVxbCEsVAl8IGloSVQMLUFheDk0UB19MRANLAjZbERscSkAJHTdNTwcKARlZAUEPVhcJRT9LT0VSBVJ ESw4PTRNJXGFOSxhBJVMOVF9cD0MSCmsOGF0TXgIyVh08FjBHBTZtSRMVXkcDCylDdg1ERWMEK14VXA cKXVZYC0gnAG4KG1ISXgMFV25tCEgnQgEIGlodWgEBXG5fCEoWA2sOG1kdbQYFXVtaD0oQC24PH10lW gYLZAUIZk8SB2dYHlJFDwcLV15tOHsUM2gIEk8TL0dQQFgvOHsXM2w4G1oVVQUHUVhcDkwLA28O HVoVQQYFXVtaD0oQBGgOHl0lXwcDUFdtOHtgaBldSQl1DgdhPy0BWixxeGt_UiBWPURsVjkuYT9s fQltGgtKNVVpAg4JOA)
INFP Communication Style
INFPs are gentle, supportive communicators who enjoy exploring options and ideas. They envision possibilities and are often good at coming up with innovative, flexible solutions. As attentive listeners, they strive to adapt their communication style to the people with whom they interact. They are compassionate and cooperative and generally appreciate others and their perspectives, although they may be reserved when sharing their values and ideas with those they are unfamiliar with.
Path of Discovery
If you want to have a deeper understanding of MBTI personality types, you must not miss PsycTest’s MBTI Zone! Here, you can test your MBTI type for free, and there are also various exciting articles waiting for you to explore. PsycTest’s MBTI section will help you better understand yourself and others, master more interpersonal communication skills, and better move towards success and happiness. Let’s discover more exciting content together!
For the INFP personality, we have specially launched the paid reading version of ‘INFP Advanced Personality File’ on the WeChat public account (psyctest). The advanced personality profile is more detailed and more advanced than the free interpretation, aiming to further meet your individual needs and expectations.
Link to this article: https://psyctest.cn/article/0rdB6Ldv/
If the original article is reprinted, please indicate the author and the source in the form of this link.