Sometimes, other people don't find those feelings convenient. For example, as much as we're proud to stand out, many INFPs also struggle with insecurity, which can lead to anxiety.
INFPs are very trusting, to begin with. However, when they have been repeatedly hurt, it is the opposite – they become hypervigilant, paranoid, and have difficulty trusting anyone. They may become extremely suspicious of the world in order to protect themselves from being hurt again.
They're both curious and shy.
However, at the same time, they can be shy and hesitant to open themselves up to people who they aren't familiar with. This is because INFPs are conscientious, need time to reflect, and do not like to engage in shallow conversations.
INFPs who are especially unhealthy or immature can function with a warped introverted feeling process. They can be overly-sensitive, quick to take offense, and insistent that only their views and values are valid.
INFPs and INFJs are commonly confused for one another due to their apparent commitment to sensitivity, forming deep relationships and helping others navigate the world. Though, while INFPs and INFJs may seem similar at first glance, these two personality types possess distinctions which set them apart.
INFPs are sometimes referred to as “the Mediator,” “the Idealist,” “the Healer,” or “the Dreamer.” ESTJ is the opposite personality type of INFP.
INFP is the opposite personality type of ESTJ. Other similar personality types include INTP and ENFJ.
Mediators (INFPs) are warm and sensitive people. But they often need to start their self-promotion by looking in the mirror. They can sometimes struggle with self-esteem issues to a greater extent than most personality types. If one has self-doubts, it can be hard to talk about one's strengths.
The circular graph below shows the average interpersonal style of INFPs. The vertical, up-down axis shows their style in terms of dominance, with a highly assertive style at the top (Assured-Dominant) and a highly passive style at the bottom (Unassured-Submissive).
Unhealthy INFPs:
At an unhealthy level, INFPs become isolative, resentful, and easily offended. They tend to have warped their dominant feeling process so that they have a hard time understanding different perspectives and values because they are so wrapped up in their own.
INFPs get embarrassed when they are put on the spot and are expected to react emotionally to something. This could involve something like being given a really exorbitant gift or having a surprise party thrown for them.
One of the reasons why INFPs disappear or ghost people is because they need time to process what's going on in their heads before responding. INFPs are often deep thinkers who need quiet time alone to reflect on things that happened throughout the day.
INFPs may seem like feelers in disguise. They may not exude emotion and enthusiasm all the time, but they care deeply and intensely. They may not open up to most people about how they feel, what they feel, or what impacts them, but they know and that's what matters to them.
Although Mediators are warm and accepting, they don't always find it easy to make friends. This may be because superficial, casual relationships can leave these personalities feeling a bit empty.
They open up their inner world to you. This is the ultimate sign of trust from an INFP. When this type shares a poem they wrote, their favorite song, or a movie that makes them believe in the beauty of humankind, they're opening up their inner world to you.
INFP: Ambiguphobia, AKA Fear of being misunderstood
INFPs are complex characters that often find themselves misunderstood. It's a feeling they know all too well, which is why their phobia is Ambiguphobia – the fear of being misunderstood.
INFPs ranked as having low dominance according to the CPI™ tool. These individuals are very independent in nature, and value autonomy and personal freedom. They dislike imposing their will on others and believe that everyone has a right to their own individual ethics and beliefs.
INFPs are most compatible with the other Intuitive-Feeling types—ENFJ, ENFP, and INFJ—as well as ESFJs.
INFPs are a lot like ISFJs and INFJs when it comes to feeling comfortable before flirting. They like to cyber stalk their love interests, but can be somewhat shy with them in person until communication has opened up a bit. You'll find that INFPs make this open communication flow happen rather quickly.
Since they are introverts, INFPs tend to have a lot of introverted characteristics. They are often quiet and reserved, although this doesn't necessarily mean they're shy. With rich inner lives, they enjoy their own company and need solitude to recharge after social interactions.
The introverted (I) intuitive (N) types (“INs”)—INFJ, INFP, INTJ and INTP—are among the most “sensitive” of the personality types. This is especially true of those who are more turbulent than assertive.
INFP: Pisces
If INFPs were a zodiac sign, they would be Pisces. The personality traits associated with Pisces are intuitive, compassionate, and sensitive. Characteristics of a Pisces include an artistic side, being mysterious, and a deep understanding of emotion.
The two personalities that are the best matches for an ENFP are the INFJ and the INTJ. While it appears that these pairings have little in common, the personality types are both able to grow and learn from each other. Additionally, their strengths and weaknesses complement each other very well.
INFPs are typically motivated by vision and inspiration, and want to engage with projects and causes that feel important to them. INFPs enjoy the process of creative problem-solving, and want to understand complex issues.