Have you ever taken a personality test and noticed a single-letter tail at the end of your result? If you’re an INFP, you may have seen an “-A” or a “-T” attached to your personality type.
But what do these letters mean?
In short, they indicate whether you are an assertive or turbulent INFP. These subtypes define how likely you are to experience negative emotions and determine your level of emotional self-regulation.
However, despite their differences, both INFP personality subtypes share the same cognitive functions.
In this article, we’ll explore the nuances between INFP-A and INFP-T personalities, including how they cope with stress, perceive themselves, and act in social situations.
So, if you’re curious about what sets these two subtypes apart, keep reading!
What Is The Difference Between INFP-A And INFP T
INFP-A personalities tend to be more emotionally stable than INFP-Ts. They are assertive and confident, which allows them to handle stress and negative emotions with ease. They are less likely to be overwhelmed by their emotions and can maintain a level head in difficult situations.
On the other hand, INFP-T personalities are more turbulent and prone to negative emotions. They are sensitive and self-critical, often seeking validation from others. They may struggle with self-doubt and have a hard time regulating their emotions.
While both subtypes are good listeners, INFP-Ts tend to seek out other people’s opinions and feedback more often. This gives them an edge in paying attention to others and understanding their perspectives.
Understanding The INFP Personality Type
The INFP personality type is characterized by creativity, idealism, empathy, and individualism. INFPs are known for their explorative attitude towards life and work, and they tend to pave their own unique path in life rather than following conventional routes. They value their deeply-held beliefs and strive to ensure that their work and relationships are in alignment with those values.
As introverts, INFPs may not be as expressive or outgoing as extroverts, and they may be more reserved in social situations. They also tend to seek self-insight and self-direction, which can take years or even decades to fully develop.
The two subtypes of INFPs – INFP-A and INFP-T – differ in several ways. INFP-A personalities are more independent and self-reliant, often dealing with problems on their own without seeking support from others. They are also less likely to be swayed by opposing viewpoints, as they strongly stand by their beliefs. In contrast, INFP-T personalities tend to consider their friends’ opinions more often and may become too dependent on them when unhealthy.
INFP-Ts are also more likely to be dissatisfied with their current state and use that dissatisfaction as motivation to improve themselves. However, they may hold themselves to a very high standard and become overwhelmed by their self-criticism. They may also struggle with regulating their emotions and seek validation from others.
Both subtypes of INFPs are good listeners, but INFP-Ts tend to seek out feedback and opinions from others more often. This can give them an advantage in understanding other people’s perspectives and paying attention to their needs.
Assertive INFPs: Coping With Stress And Perceiving Themselves
Assertive INFPs are more confident in their decisions and capabilities. They tend to be more independent and rely less on the opinions of others. As a result, they are better equipped to cope with stress and negative emotions.
Assertive INFPs have a well-developed sense of self, which allows them to stand up for themselves in a way that does not disrespect others. They are more likely to be satisfied with their current state and not feel the need to constantly improve themselves. This means that they are less likely to become overwhelmed by the pressure of perfectionism.
When it comes to perceiving themselves, assertive INFPs tend to have a positive self-image. They are confident in their abilities and tend to be less self-critical than turbulent INFPs. As a result, they are less likely to rue their past actions or stress about the future.
Turbulent INFPs: Coping With Stress And Perceiving Themselves
Turbulent INFPs are more prone to stress and dissatisfaction with their current state. However, they use this dissatisfaction as a driving force to improve themselves and strive for perfection. They hold themselves to a high standard and can become overwhelmed by their own expectations.
Compared to INFP-As, turbulent INFPs tend to be more self-critical and sensitive. They may perceive themselves as lazy, which is often an inaccurate self-evaluation. Opinions matter a lot to them, and they may seek validation from others, making them more susceptible to stress.
Turbulent INFPs tend to rue past actions and stress about the future. They may handle conflicts in passive-aggressive ways and struggle with self-doubt. However, they are also good listeners and seek out other people’s opinions and feedback more often than INFP-As. This gives them an advantage in understanding others’ perspectives and building strong relationships.
Social Differences Between INFP-A And INFP-T
The social differences between INFP-A and INFP-T personalities are significant. INFP-A individuals are more likely to be confident and assertive in social situations, making them more comfortable in group settings. They are less likely to be overwhelmed by negative emotions, which allows them to interact with others in a calm and collected manner.
INFP-T individuals, on the other hand, may struggle with social interactions due to their sensitivity and self-doubt. They may seek validation from others and be more prone to negative emotions, which can make it difficult for them to navigate social situations.
INFP-Ts may also be more critical of themselves and others, which can affect their relationships. They may have a harder time forgiving others and themselves for mistakes, leading to strained relationships.
The Shared Cognitive Functions Of INFP Subtypes
All INFP subtypes share the same cognitive functions, which are introverted feeling (Fi), extroverted intuition (Ne), introverted sensing (Si), and extroverted thinking (Te). However, they differ in the order of their cognitive function development.
The dominant function of INFPs is Fi, which means that they prioritize their internal values and emotions over external factors. This function helps them to understand and empathize with others on a deep level. INFP-A types use their dominant function to become more self-assured and independent, while INFP-Ts use it to become more introspective and self-critical.
The auxiliary function of INFPs is Ne, which allows them to explore new ideas and possibilities. This function helps them to see the big picture and find creative solutions to problems. INFP-A types use their Ne to pave their own unique path in life, while INFP-Ts use it to seek out new perspectives and opinions from others.
The tertiary function of INFPs is Si, which helps them to remember past experiences and details. This function allows them to find comfort in familiar routines and traditions. INFP-A types may use their Si to establish a sense of stability and routine in their lives, while INFP-Ts may use it to dwell on past mistakes and negative experiences.
The inferior function of INFPs is Te, which means that they may struggle with logic, organization, and decision-making. This function can cause them to doubt their abilities and feel overwhelmed by practical tasks. INFP-A types may use their Te to become more assertive and confident in their decisions, while INFP-Ts may struggle with making decisions and rely on others for guidance.
In summary, while all INFP subtypes share the same cognitive functions, they differ in how they develop and prioritize them. The dominant Fi function remains the same for all subtypes, but the order of the other functions can vary. The shared cognitive functions help to explain why INFPs tend to be creative, empathetic, individualistic, and idealistic individuals who seek out meaningful connections with others.
