Exploring the Perspective: Why INFJs Might Perceive INFPs as Selfish or Unhealthy

MBTI personality types like INFJ (Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Judging) and INFP (Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving) are often contrasted in their dynamics. This article explores the reasons why INFJs might perceive INFPs as selfish or unhealthy, based on the distinct traits and behaviors of each personality type.

Understanding INFJ and INFP in MBTI

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a widely used tool to understand personality types. While INFJs and INFPs share some similarities due to their Feeling and Introversion traits, they differ markedly in their Judging and Perceiving orientations. INFJs are often characterized by their strong sense of duty and responsibility towards others, while INFPs are known for their idealism and focus on personal values and self-expression.

Different Priorities Drive Perceptions

Different Priorities: INFJs are deeply driven by a strong sense of duty and responsibility towards others. They prioritize the needs of the group over individual desires, which can sometimes be bewildering to INFPs who focus more on personal values and self-expression. INFJs might view INFPs' focus on personal values as self-centered or neglectful, hence perceiving them as selfish or unhealthy.

Emotional Processing

Emotional Processing: INFJs tend to process emotions in a structured and organized manner, often seeking to understand and resolve conflicts. In contrast, INFPs are more introspective and may struggle with expressing their feelings, often leading to behaviors that INFJs might interpret as avoidance or selfishness. This misinterpretation can exacerbate the perception that INFPs are self-centered.

Idealism vs. Practicality

Idealism vs. Practicality: INFPs are known for their idealism, holding onto their values even in the face of practical considerations. In contrast, INFJs often seek to balance their ideals with practical solutions. This difference can lead INFJs to view INFPs as unrealistic or irresponsible. This perception further reinforces the idea that INFPs are self-centered or unhealthy.

Communication Styles

Communication Styles: INFJs typically prefer deeper, meaningful conversations with a goal-oriented approach. They may become frustrated with INFPs' tendency to be more abstract or non-directive in their communication style. As a result, this can create feelings of disconnect and the perception that INFPs are not engaging with others' needs.

Conflict Resolution

Conflict Resolution: INFJs often seek harmony and work hard to resolve conflicts, whereas INFPs might avoid confrontation or get overly absorbed in their internal world. This difference in conflict resolution styles can also contribute to INFJs perceiving INFPs as passive or irresponsible in addressing issues.

Self-Care vs. Self-Sacrifice

Self-Care vs. Self-Sacrifice: INFJs may occasionally feel a need to sacrifice their own needs for the sake of others, which can make them perceive INFPs' focus on self-care as selfishness. INFPs prioritize their own emotional health, which can be misinterpreted by INFJs as a lack of consideration for others' well-being.

It's important to note that these perceptions are not universally true and can vary based on individual experiences and specific relationship dynamics. Understanding and appreciating the differences between INFJs and INFPs can help foster healthier interactions between these personalities.