INFPs aren't inherently dominant or submissive; they are idealistic, value authenticity, and can lean towards being passive or accommodating due to their empathy and desire for harmony, but they possess strong internal values and can be fiercely principled and even dominant when their core beliefs are challenged, often preferring to follow their own internal compass rather than societal norms. They are complex, often appearing gentle and non-confrontational (submissive-leaning), yet capable of firm conviction (dominant-leaning) when protecting their values.
In their social dominance, they will happily lead others and take charge when given the opportunity, but they can step back and follow if needed. Of course, there will be individual INFPs who are relatively high or low on some of these dimensions, leading to some particular interpersonal challenges.
Dominant: Introverted Feeling (Fi)
They possess an incredible sense of wonder about the world and feel great compassion and empathy for others. While these emotions are strong, INFPs tend not to express them outwardly. That's why others sometimes mistake you as aloof or unwelcoming if you have this personality type.
According to our “Manipulation” survey, 76% of INFP personalities say they consider manipulating people to be fundamentally dishonest. This statistic underscores INFPs' general disapproval of deceptive, manipulative behaviors, reflecting both their idealistic nature and their commitment to integrity in relationships.
People who constantly lie, who consciously manipulate others out of fun of to get what they want or people who generally have no morals. People who talk about others behind their backs. People who let someone close to them fall at the moment life gets a bit harder or when a challenge in life is coming.
If an INFP was traumatized in childhood, they may develop a strong dependence on their therapist. This is because, deep down they long for a mentor who respects them for who they are and gives them the guidance they need. At the same time, INFPs tend to be sensitive to interference.
While INFPs are not inherently autistic, some of their traits might appear similar to those observed in individuals on the autism spectrum. For example, both INFPs and individuals with autism might exhibit a preference for solitary activities and deep focus on specific interests.
INFPs are often drawn to helping others and seeing the good in people, which can make them vulnerable to narcissistic manipulation. Your empathy and idealism are beautiful qualities, but they can make you a target for those who seek to take advantage.
They may experience deep melancholy. Due to their introverted orientation, INFPs may experience periods of profound melancholy. These emotional lows become particularly challenging when they feel disconnected from their core values or when external reality seems misaligned with their internal emotional landscape.
INFP: Won't Cause a Scene
These sensitive types are hyper-aware of the outward persona they project into the world and are vulnerable, so criticism or sensitive questions don't bode too well. Because INFPs internalize their emotions, their anger tends to simmer beneath the surface rather than explode outright.
Taylor Swift is widely typed as an ESFJ (Extroverted, Sensing, Feeling, Judging), often called "The Consul," known for being loyal, caring, organized, and people-focused, with an Enneagram 3w2 for being ambitious and image-conscious, though her complex career and songwriting lead to debates, with some suggesting ENFJ or ISFJ, while her music itself hints at various types.
One of the most important things to know about INFPs is that they value authenticity. They want to be themselves, and they encourage others to do the same. They may not always follow the crowd, but they believe in standing up for what they believe in, even when it's difficult.
INFPs may marry people of any personality type, but they're most likely to marry ENFJs, INFJs, and ESFJs. Not only do these personality types naturally click with INFPs, but they can also help them become more organized.
The dominant cognitive function of the INFP personality type is Introverted Feeling, meaning they process information internally and prefer spending time alone than with others. Extraverted Intuition is the auxiliary cognitive function of INFPS, and so they base decisions and experience the world through intuition.
But INFPs have a tendency to get in their own way when it comes to both making new friends and feeling socially connected. These Introverts regularly crave alone time, which can sometimes cause them to unintentionally distance themselves from others – even the friends they hold closest to their heart.
INFP Weaknesses
Self-Isolating – INFP personalities long to connect with others, but they don't always know how. Especially in new environments, they may be reluctant to put themselves out there in ways that would help them make new friends or become involved in a new community.
While INFPs are not inherently on the autism spectrum, some may identify with aspects of neurodiversity or find that they share certain autistic traits. Recognizing neurodiversity in INFPs involves acknowledging their unique sensitivities, communication styles, and ways of processing information.
The unique combination of personality traits that INFPs bring to all of their social interactions often causes them to engage in people-pleasing behaviors. As mentioned, deep empathy lies at your core, and this often allows you to feel other people's emotions viscerally.
Highly empathetic
Individuals who have a high level of empathy are extremely appealing to narcissists because narcissists crave acknowledgment and validation for their thoughts and feelings (clinically, being "mirrored").
Introverted Thinking (Ti) in the demon function is the least developed function of INFPs. Ti haunts them with their logical inconsistencies and finds faults in their beliefs and principles. These personalities may get confused and tripped up by their own definitions of things and feel vulnerable upon realizing.
Emotional intimacy is a greater turn on for an INFP than your looks/skills in bed/accomplishments. Someone who chooses to be themselves unapologetically even if the crowd laughs at them. Compassion. (This will make an INFP at least think of a future with you.
Some argue Jesus might be better described as an ENFJ, the charismatic teacher and motivator. His ability to inspire crowds, lead disciples, and spark movements certainly fits. Others might suggest INFP, given his introspection, values-driven teaching, and focus on inner transformation.
Around 90% of autism cases are attributed to genetic factors, meaning autism is highly heritable, with many different genes contributing, rather than a single cause, often interacting with environmental influences during early brain development, though specific environmental factors don't cause it but can increase risk. Twin studies show strong genetic links, with concordance rates between 60-90% in identical twins, and research points to complex interactions of many genes and prenatal/perinatal factors.
INFPs are known for their sensitivity – these personalities can have profound emotional responses to music, art, nature, and the people around them. They are known to be extremely sentimental and nostalgic, often holding onto special keepsakes and memorabilia that brighten their days and fill their heart with joy.