This blog post aims to look at the diverse answers to the question, “Can a person be both INFJ and INFP?” and explore the two personality types’ characteristics, functionalities, similarities and differences with regard to the different aspects of life to understand the various perspectives on the possibility of being both INFJ and INFP.
Can a person be both INFJ and INFP?
No, a person cannot be both INFJ and INFP. INFJs frequently build a strong ethical centre based on their observations of humanity. INFPs have a strong moral code based on their own internal ideas, and they are meticulous in their observation. Perhaps you could alternate between the two. You can’t, however, be both INFJ and INFP at the same time.
How to tell if you are an INFP or an INFJ?
You are an INFP if you prefer an unstructured and free-spirited lifestyle. If you require a framework of organisation and goals in order to feel content, you can be classified as an INFJ.
INFPs and INFJs are two introverted and ultra-creative Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality types with evident parallels and significant distinctions. They are both nurturers who are deeply committed to their principles and beliefs.
5 INFP Personality Type Characteristics.
- They are nurturing, kind, and supportive, to name a few characteristics of the INFP personality type.
- They’re perpetually upbeat and feel that there’s good in everyone.
- They are free-spirited, adaptable, and happy to go with the flow.
- They require a lot of alone time.
- They are creative.
5 INFJ Personality Type Characteristics.
- They are intellectually curious and creative, to name a few characteristics of the INFJ personality type.
- They are determined to do the right thing.
- They are goal-oriented and prefer to work in a disciplined setting.
- They have a strong sense of empathy and are excellent listeners.
- They can be perfectionists in particular areas.
INFJ vs INFP: Cognitive Functions.
Different cognitive functions are represented by INFJ and INFP. Introverted intuition (Ni), extraverted feeling (Fe), introverted thinking (Ti), and extraverted sensing are all used by the INFJ (Se). Introverted feeling (Fi), extraverted intuition (Ne), introverted sensing (Si), and extraverted thinking (Ti) are all used by the INFP (Te). As a result, these two kinds do not share any functions.
INFJ Function Stack.
The INFJ function stack, based on the Jungian function stacks, indicate that the INFJ personality prioritises their inner world over their outward world. The INFJ function stack is abbreviated as NiFe, and its functions are tiered as follows –
Dominant Function of INFJs: Introverted Intuition (Ni).
The introverted intuition function is the dominant one in the INFJ function stack, and it is in charge of how the INFJ’s inner world functions, which it accomplishes by focusing on information storage and eventual perception of the stored information.
INFJs will consider patterns, viewpoints, and the larger picture. They contemplate the meaning and purpose of life in private, as well as human patterns and behaviours.
They like eliminating alternatives until they arrive at the one most likely future possibility. INFJs have a “detached” feeling from the world, as if they are watching it from afar. They “zoom out” of circumstances to see how the puzzle pieces fit together.
It is critical for them to examine a concept from various perspectives and anticipate which notion has the best chance of becoming “real.” This comes more naturally to them than thinking about their sentiments or principles.
Auxiliary Function of INFJs: Extraverted Feeling (Fe).
The extraverted feeling function, which focuses on communication between the INFJ and the rest of the world, is the secondary or auxiliary function that assists the dominant function.
This function helps the INFJ in processing their emotions and feelings, as well as establishing belief systems that will eventually drive their behaviour and tendencies, and because it is extroverted, unlike the dominant function Ni, it is largely focused on other people and their surroundings.
INFJs are very interested in interpersonal interactions, and they may appear to be constantly monitoring and enhancing interpersonal feelings and morale, which is due to their extraverted feeling function.
They may appear to bring “positive vibes” into the interpersonal environment. INFJs are sensitive to and absorb the moods and emotions of those around them. They frequently understand how to modify their actions in order to achieve external harmony.
Tertiary Function of INFJs: Introverted Thinking (Ti).
Introverted thinking is the third function of the INFJ function stack, and it leads the INFJ to interpret their intuitive connections in a rational way.
It is a purely internal function, and thus is slow and deliberate. Subconsciously, the introverted thinking function assists the INFJ in understanding the connections they make consciously and in the actual world, making it a vital asset to the INFJ individual.
This function allows for critical and analytical thinking, as well as appraisal of situations in order to solve problems. However, INFJs, on the other hand, will use tertiary introverted thinking to link all of their concepts in a way that is sensible to them.
They strive for logical consistency and love researching, categorizing and arranging information to fundamentals and underlying framework of things.
They also enjoy analysing other people’s emotions and moods in order to better understand them. Introverted Thinking (Ti) is the “relief” function for INFJs. INFJs love toying with ideas and principles when they are not stressed. They appreciate solving mental riddles and brain teasers.
Inferior Function of INFJs: Extraverted Sensing (Se).
The last function in the INFJ function stack, extroverted sensing, provides the INFJ with the sensation that the world is secure, concrete, and structured. It also aids their extroverted feeling function by making their surroundings clearer to them and leading them to appreciate beauty.
The least developed of each type’s functions is the inferior function. It is also the most sensitive and “opposed” to the dominant function. Extraverted Sensing is weaker in INFJs (Se). They are frequently “in their thoughts,” and as a result, they can lose contact with the world around them.
They experience frustration if their surroundings are disorganised and messy. When stressed, an INFJ may “slip into the grasp” of extraverted feeling and begin overindulging in sensory pleasures; overeating, making impulsive decisions, drinking excessively, over-exercising, being impulsive and reckless.
In a good mood, INFJs can use Se to enjoy a relaxing activity; for example, some INFJs become expert gardeners or bakers, or they may love bird watching or stargazing as a means to unwind and relax.
INFP Function Stack.
The INFP function stack is abbreviated as FiNe, which offers information on the stack’s first two functions, introverted feeling and extroverted intuition. The INFP function stack is based on the same Jungian theory of personality as the INTJ function stack and includes the following cognitive functions –
Dominant Function of INFPs: Introverted Feeling (Fi).
The primary function of the INFP personality connects them to their own feelings and thoughts, and they may appear reflective and introspective, but they are also very aware of their surroundings and environment.
Despite its name, this function does not refer to emotions or genuine “feelings,” but rather to values that originate within the INFP individual.
INFP is primarily driven by the introverted feeling function of their function stack, which is the primary decision-making mechanism that dictates the INFP’s actions and behaviour.
Fi creates the INFP’s moral code and belief system, and it is also the fundamental cause for the INFP’s internal attention rather than outward focus.
The INFP is also highly caring of others, which is just one of the many inconsistencies in this personality type, which is actually because they treat people the way they want to be treated, and they are well aware of this because of this function.
Due to the introverted decision-making process, the INFP may take a long time to go over their own beliefs to ensure they are making the right decision, and this process can make them very prone to introspection and reflection, which is great, but it can also take quite a bit of time and requires mental solitude, which may sometimes isolate and cut these individuals off from those around them. Introverted Feeling is used by INFPs.
This is their preferred function, the one they utilise without thinking about it. INFPs are continually assessing how things fit into their value system. They have a strong set of individualistic beliefs that they attempt to uphold in all aspects of their lives. INFPs are self-sufficient and strive to preserve an individual moral code that is honed over time.
They always keep checking with their conscience. They “put themselves in other people’s shoes” to try to comprehend how they would feel if they were in their place. This is known as “mirroring” emotions.
INFPs have exceptionally profound feelings that require a great deal of focus. Their feeling function is similar to a towering tree with deep, extended roots that refine and delve deeper into the INFP’s own values, morals, and emotions. INFPs are unlikely to change their beliefs or identity in order to “smooth things up.”
Auxiliary Function of INFPs: Extraverted Intuition (Ne).
The second function of the INFP function stack acquires information by identifying patterns and underlying principles in the concepts supplied to them by their surroundings and connecting them when they talk, write, or create.
The INFP function Ne, when combined with Fi, results in a desire to study values and ideals, and it functions mostly via engaging with outside sources, which may imply that these persons prefer sources of new information.
INFPs do not make decisions based on intuition. They take the lead with introverted feelings. Extraverted intuition is their second favourite function, and they enjoy employing it; nevertheless, it is not as automatic as emotion. In the outer world, extraverted intuition perceives a wealth of ideas and possibilities.
An INFP adds more alternatives to the image than an INFJ, who focuses on removing possibilities until the appropriate one is found. They can notice one item and extrapolate a plethora of ideas and connections from it. Brainstorming and jumping from one thought to the next comes naturally to them.
Their intuition is like a tree with tiny roots but enormous branches that radiate out in all directions. It has a lot of breadth and makes a lot of connections. INFPs have a distinct personality that sets them apart from the rest of the world. They have high personal standards, morals, and ideas that they strive to uphold.
It is vital for their well-being that they are genuine and follow their moral code. Their intuition provides them with a creative perspective and an instinctive capacity to envision various options and alternatives for the future.
Tertiary Function of INFPs: Introverted Sensing (Si).
The third function, the introverted sense function, ensures that the majority of their knowledge and information is based on their personal experiences, which may cause the INFP to spend a lot of time in the past trying to replicate it.
INFPs will employ tertiary introverted sensing to anchor all of their thoughts and processes in their life experiences. INFPs have a nostalgic air about them and enjoy remembering what has happened and how they felt in the past.
They recall countless details of a previous experience, how it made them feel, and what they gained from it using Si (introverted sensing). This gives individuals confidence in their experience and the ability to recall details clearly.
They frequently like revisiting their favourite books, movies, and songs. INFJs have less nostalgia and would rather read a fresh book than re-read a favourite. Introverted Sensing (Si) is the “relief” function for INFPs.
During downtime, they love revisiting locations they’ve gone, concepts they’ve investigated, or retrieving facts from the past or history. They are prone to nostalgia and like reminiscing about old events.
Inferior function of INFPs: Extraverted Thinking (Te).
The last function in the INFP function stack operates in the background or subconsciously and may not manifest until they are considerably older.
The extroverted thinking function is normally in charge of thinking in a more logic-oriented fashion while addressing problems, but because it is so low on the INFP function stack, they may not use it as much.
INFPs have a lower level of Extraverted Thinking (Te). Because it is inferior, they can appear unreasonable at times because all of their other functions tend to “drown it out.”
In the same way that INFJs might become so engrossed in their thoughts that they walk into walls (due to deficient Se), INFPs can become so preoccupied with their beliefs and values that they lose their logical focus (due to inferior Te).
INFPs can “slip into the grip” of lesser Te under great stress. As a result, they may appear unduly directive, brutally critical, or caustic. They may become concerned with righting wrongs or correcting mistakes.
INFPs in a good mood can employ Te to bring their ideas and principles to life and give them a logical direction. Te can assist them in putting their thoughts out into the world in a convincing and sensible manner.
Why can’t a person be both INFJ and INFP?
A person cannot be both INFJ and INFP because of their extremely different function stacking and personality types, a person cannot be both INFJ and INFP, and while these two personality types may appear similar due to their quiet attitudes and introverted tendencies, they can in fact be quite different from each other.
INFPs and INFJs may appear to be very similar on the surface. Both avoid conflict, are kind and creative, and are adamant about doing what is right. As you learn more about function theory and cognitive functions, the distinctions become clearer.
Furthermore, some personality traits, such as the enneagram, might influence how the type you are manifests. The MBTI provides many different personality types, and they may appear to be highly similar or the same on the surface, but looking at the Jungian function stack that is the basis of a personality type may provide someone good information about what that personality is intended to look like.
The INFJ is thought to be a more thinking type of personality, with introverted intuition as their major function, whereas the INFP’s dominant function is introverted feeling, which makes a big difference.
To begin with, it means that the INFJ is more focused on obtaining and sorting through information and assessing what they have instinctively, whereas the INFP is more focused on the feelings and beliefs that they hold close to their heart.
Another significant difference between the INFJ and INFP function stacks is that they have exactly opposite intuition functions. Whereas the INFP intuition function is extroverted, the INFJ intuition function is introverted, which makes a significant difference in the information that a person will attend to or work with.
Differences between INFJs and INFPs.
INFP personality types are Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, and Perceiving. The characteristics of INFJs include Introversion, Intuition, Feeling, and Judgement.
INFPs are motivated by principles, whereas INFJs are motivated by reasoning. INFJs are prompt decision-makers and seem to characterise self-discipline, but INFPs are free-spirited and even flighty.
Finally, INFPs are open-minded, inquiring, and accepting of new ideas. INFJs, on the other hand, dislike surprises and seek structure.
The differences can be discussed in details with regard to the following aspects of life-
Friendship.
INFPs and INFJs are both introverts who prefer to have a limited circle of friends over being very social with a large range of individuals. INFPs, on the other hand, often feel embarrassed even in the presence of close friends, finding it difficult to genuinely expose their true selves.
INFJs, on the other hand, will form close connections with a select group of people and enjoy the feeling of being perfectly understood by them.
Happiness.
INFPs and INFJs both want to achieve big objectives in order to be happy, but INFJs do not need the same level of recognition that INFPs want.INFPs must work for a cause they care about in order to be happy.
They also require a place to express their creativity. INFJs, like INFPs, desire significant goals and to be creative, but they do not require the external validation that INFPs do.
Decision Making.
The Jungian Personality Test has four components in decision making. Intuition – Recognizing the large picture implications Sensing – Seeing the smaller, more detailed picture Feeling – Investigating the emotional ramifications for all parties involved.
Thinking entails weighing the benefits and drawbacks of many options. INFPs dislike making decisions and prefer to spend their time feeling and thinking. INFJs make far better decisions because they rely on their intuition and feelings.
Anger.
INFPs and INFJs dislike conflict and typically strive to contain their rage. Despite this, both can be triggered by injustice, bullying, and others who dismiss their deeply held principles. INFPs rarely erupt in rage, while an INFJ may erupt in defence of another person’s feelings.
Appearance.
INFPs often do not care about their appearance, but INFJs do. The appearance of both INFPs and INFJs is not normally a top focus, but there are a few key differences: INFPs are more concerned with contributing to the greater good than with how they appear.
INFJs are unique in that they can be either positive or negative. They may be concerned about their appearance at times, but they are often preoccupied and pay little attention to themselves.
Examples of INFJs and INFPs.
Princess Diana, Helen Keller, George Orwell, and Fred Rogers are all examples of INFPs. Jimmy Carter, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Taylor Swift, and J.K. Rowling are all INFJs.
Similarities between INFPs and INFJs.
Both INFJs and INFPs are kind souls who genuinely care about others. They are exceedingly protective and nurturing, frequently acting as problem solvers and counsellors to people around them.
They are also profoundly committed to their principles. Both personality types have so much to offer a society in need of more creativity and loving, principled people prepared to give more of themselves.
Conclusion –
This blog post explored various answers to the question, “Can a person be both INFJ and INFP?” and reviewed the features, functions, similarities, and differences of the two introverted and extremely inventive Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality types to help determine if a person can be both INFJ and INFP.Please feel free to reach out to us with any questions or comments you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Can a person be both INFJ and INFP?
Can I be both INFJ and INFP?
No, you cannot be both INFJ and INFP. INFPs and INFJs appear to be extremely similar on the surface. They’re both idealistic, moralistic, misunderstood, and sensitive, among other things.
However, they are quite different from each other because of their extremely different function stacking and personality types. Both the INFJ and INTP personality types are uncommon. It’s nearly as uncommon for an INFJ to encounter an INTP and vice versa.
How do I know if I’m INFJ or INFP?
Simply put, if you find yourself marching to the beat of your own drum, you’re probably an INFP. You’re more likely to be an INFJ if you’ve always been acutely aware of other people’s feelings — and feel responsible for, if not overwhelmed by, them.
Is INFP or INFJ better?
INFPs dislike making decisions and prefer to spend their time feeling and thinking. INFJs make far better decisions because they rely on their intuition and feelings.
Are INFJs more emotional than INFPs?
The INFJ’s emotion processing function is extroverted feeling. INFPs, on the other hand, have a primary emotional significance function: introverted feeling. This suggests that INFPs evaluate emotional relevance based on their personal experience, moral framework, and priorities.
Why do INFPs like INFJs?
They both desire a meaningful and serious relationship in their life. They both abhor injustice and will not put up with bullying or abuse. They would rather hang out with a small group of pals than go to parties.
How do INFP view INFJ?
INFPs consider INFJs to be sociable butterflies. INFJs, from what I’ve noticed, have the ability to attract friends. They have a natural ability to attract new friends. They become the focus of attention without even trying. I’ve had some wonderful laughs with my INFJ pals, and others are drawn to their enthusiasm as well.
Are INFJ and Infp soulmates?
INFJs and INFPs are born with excellent telepathic talents, which can be incredibly beneficial in a twin flame relationship. Despite the distance between them, both personality types might feel connected to their twin flame.
Why are INFPs and INFJs so similar?
Because they are both idealistic, moralistic, misunderstood, and sensitive, the INFJ and INFP may appear to be quite similar. INFJs and INFPs can be highly different as well, due to variances in their function stack.
Why are so many INFPs and INFJs mistyped?
The majority of online tests focus on letter dichotomies (E or I, S or N, F or T) without considering cognitive skills. As a result, even a modest inclination for the P or J dichotomies can affect your entire type.
INFJs and INFPs have no cognitive processes in common. To confuse matters further, INFJs have a perceiving preference, whilst INFPs have a judgement preference. As a result, many INFPs are INFJs, and many INFJs are INFPs.
References–
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