They can be overly-sensitive, quick to take offense, and insistent that only their views and values are valid. They can be resentful and isolative, only allowing people into their lives that adhere to the same ideals and values.
#1 – INFPs HATE Rigidity
For the INFP, personal freedom, control, and autonomy is an essential part of happiness. Rules that seem poorly thought-out, structures that constrain their ability to imagine, and judgmental statements can make them feel furious inside.
Prefacing an insult or critique by saying “don't take this personally” will only make INFPs feel belittled and irritated. INFPs are more than happy to get constructive criticism, but it needs to be done in a way that isn't patronizing. Zen habits has an amazing article on how to give constructive criticism kindly.
The three personality types that INFPs are attracted to are ENFJ, INFJ, and ESFJ. Since INFPs value creativity, willingness to help, and exploring the world together, they often choose partners with extroverted feeling (Fe) function.
Who are INFPs most compatible with? INFPs are most compatible with the other Intuitive-Feeling types—ENFJ, ENFP, and INFJ—as well as ESFJs.
The INFP and Dominance
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.
INFP compatibility
Although two well-developed individuals of any type can enjoy a healthy relationship, INFP's natural partner is the ENFJ, or the ESFJ. INFP's dominant function of Introverted Feeling is best matched with a partner whose dominant function is Extraverted Feeling.
To the INFP, the ESTP can seem hedonistic, unpredictable, and detached. To the ESTP, the INFP can seem overly-sensitive, mysterious, and confusing. Both have completely different cognitive functions, so they can have a very hard time understanding what's going on in each other's minds.
ENFPs and INFPs tend to have really close, trusting bonds. Because these types share the same cognitive functions, they tend to innately “get” each other without as much trouble as many other type pairings.
The INFP – Shallowness
Shallow conversations, relationships, and activities turn INFPs off because they see them as a waste of time. People who focus more on appearances or material possessions than on substance and meaning are very unappealing to INFPs.
Dishonesty and pretentious behavior turns off the INFP tremendously. As mentioned above, the INFP will have a very open mind towards nearly anyone – but being yourself, being honest, and being authentic are extremely important to them.
Weaknesses that are typically associated with the INFP personality type include... Having difficulty accepting disappointment or failure. Taking criticism too personally. Struggling to share about themselves.
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.
Much of the time, an INFP may seem completely happy with their own company, almost to the point of appearing antisocial. But INFPs, though definitely Introverts, do have a greater-than-average need for meaningful human connection.
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.
INFP is the opposite personality type of ESTJ. Other similar personality types include INTP and ENFJ.
Other good matches for INFPs would include the INTP, INFJ, INTJ, and other INFPs. These types are likely to be compatible with each other because they have a good understanding of the Idealist's personality and mindset.
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.
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.
INFPs can fall in love quickly with the right person. However, they don't fall in love easily. Before they allow themselves to form romantic attachments with others, they take their time building a solid foundation. INFPs can make fantastic partners when they're in love.
Although two well-developed individuals of any type can enjoy a healthy relationship, INFP's natural partner is the ENFJ, or the ESFJ. INFP's dominant function of Introverted Feeling is best matched with a partner whose dominant function is Extraverted Feeling.
If you are an INFJ or an INFP personality type, you know it's possible to experience intense attraction with your crushes. In fact, most of the time when you develop a “crush” on someone, it doesn't feel like just a crush. It feels like an obsession.
Mediators (INFPs) are dreamers and idealists, especially when it comes to romance. People with this personality type believe in the power and beauty of true love, and they sincerely hope never to settle for anything less. It's fair to say, then, that Mediators approach the world of romance with high expectations.