I
S
N
F
P
The cognitive functions of these two types make them very different from each other. Which one are you?
INFP vs ISFP – What type are you?
The INFP vs ISFP debate can be summed up by this:
INFP
- Questions their identity and their purpose in the world
- Does not care whether they will fit in or be accepted by others
- Question norms and go against the mainstream in society
ISFP
- Sure of who they are and what their purpose is
- Unsure how they will fit in and be received by other people
- Try their best to connect with and become a better part of the tribe
Why is this? It has to do with their cognitive functions. iNtuitives struggle more with an anxiety in regards to metaphysical and philosophical issues in their life, while Sensors struggle more with fear of exclusion in a social or practical sense.
INFP and ISFP Cognitive Function Showdown
INFP
- Introverted iNtuition
- iNtuitive Perceiving
ISFP
- Introverted Sensing
- Sensing Perceiving
Introverted iNtuition makes the INFP more inclined to be a philosopher and more focused with trying to understand themselves and their own identity. Introverted Sensing makes an ISFP more certain of themselves and who they are and what their beliefs are and less likely to question or doubt themselves.
iNtuitive Perceiving makes the INFP more ready to change and to see things from new perspectives and to argue back and forth the different viewpoints in a discussion. Sensing Perceiving makes an ISFP more aggressive about their views and beliefs and better apt at representing themselves and their own side in a discussion.
INFPs are Idealists (NFs) and ISFPs are Socials (SFs) which means ISFPs are more concerned with fitting in and being liked and being important in their community, and INFPs are more focused on being original or different to the norm.
INFP and ISFP Shadow
INFP
- Extroverted Sensing
- Sensing Judging
ISFP
- Extroverted iNtuition
- iNtuitive Judging
The INFPs tend to struggle more with being overwhelmed by the physical world, while ISFPs struggle more with change and novelty. New environments overwhelm an ISFP, but challenge and inspire an INFP. The physical world is fascinating to an ISFP and something the ISFP will want to learn about and engage in. INFPs will often hide from or avoid dealing with the real world, preferring fantasy. ISFPs will often ignore or pretend not to. notice changes around them, acting like it did not happen.
INFPs struggle with self-discipline and consistency and follow through. ISFPs can find this difficult too, but generally experience it as something more rewarding. ISFPs struggle with planning and preparing and thinking ahead. ISFPs would rather just ignore future worries altogether. INFPs do their best to plan ahead, even if it is difficult for them.
