Personality Types and Temperaments

Including
A Brief Introduction to Personality Typing;
A Shortcut to Typewatching: The Four Temperaments; and
Brief Sketches of the Sixteen MBTI Personality Types
The information in this collection about personality types is taken almost verbatim (yes, plagiarized!) from
the books Please Understand Me, by David Keirsey and Marilyn Bates; Type Talk and Type Talk at Work, by
Otto Kroeger and Janet Theusen; Influencing People Using Myers Briggs, by Steven Myers; People Types &
Tiger Stripes, by Gordon Lawrence; Psychological Type: An Introduction, by Alan W. Brownsword; Jungs
Typology in Perspective, by Angelo Spoto; Are You My Type? Or Why Arent You More Like Me? by Claudine
G. Wirths and Mary Bowman-Kruhm; and The Type Reporter, edited by Susan Scanlon. Some information is
also from the TypeWorks web site: http://www.typeworks.com/
The brief sketches of each of the sixteen MBTI types are taken from Life Types, by Sandra Hirsh & Jean
Kummerow; Influencing People Using Myers Briggs; Isabel Briggs-Meyers type descriptions; People Types
& Tiger Stripes; Type Talk at Work; Im Not Crazy Im Just Not You, by Roger R. Pearman & Sarah C.
Albritton; and The Type Reporter.

For help in determining your MBTI letters, see the test at the end of this document or
take the Keirsey Temperament Sorter, an online personality test at
http://www.keirsey.com/cgi-bin/keirsey/newkts.cgi

*
This Collection of MBTI Personality Type Information Was Prepared by
Carolyne J. Butler
May 1998

WHAT IS PSYCHOLOGICAL TYPE?

The great Swiss physician-psychologist, C. G. Jung, developed one of the most comprehensive of
current theories to explain human personality. Where other observers saw peoples behavior as
random, Jung saw patterns. What he called psychological types are patterns in the way people
prefer to perceive and make judgments.
In Jungs theory, all conscious mental activity can be classified into four mental processes or
functions. The two perception processes (that is, awareness, taking in data) are Sensing (S) and
Intuition (N). The two judgment processes (that is, making decisions about what has come into
awareness) are Thinking (T) and Feeling (F). What one perceives, that is, what comes into
consciousness, moment by moment, comes either through the senses or through intuition. To
remain in consciousness, sensing or intuitive perceptions must be usedsorted, weighed,
analyzed, evaluatedby the judgment processes, thinking and feeling.
Perception (S and N) and Judgment (T and F) are truly basic in the human condition. Our
troubles come from faulty perception and poor judgment, and our progress certainly comes from
clear perception and sound judgment. We may not think about it often, but the quality of any
human activitycaring for a child, building a house, fighting a fire, running a business, playing
tennis, preparing a meal, etc.depends on the quality of perception and judgment that goes into
them. Jung saw that the ways we go about perceiving and judging differ, and the differences come
in patterns. Understanding the patterns is what Personality Typing is all about.
DOESNT TYPE FENCE YOU IN?
Not if you understand it. An understanding of type frees you in several ways.

It gives you confidence in your own direction of developmentthe areas in which you can
become excellent with the most ease and pleasure.
It can also reduce the guilt many people feel at not being able to do everything in life equally
well.

Acknowledging your own preferences opens the possibility of finding constructive values
instead of conflicts in the differences you encounter with someone whose preferences are
opposite yours.
As Isabel Myers puts it: For most people, really understanding their own type in particular,
and other peoples types in general, is a releasing experience rather than a restricting one. It sets
one free to recognize ones own natural bent and to trust ones own potential for growth and
excellence, with no obligation to copy anyone else, however admirable that person may be in his
or her own different way.

KEY TO THE MBTI LETTERS

The MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator) is one of the most widely used personality tests given
today. It has four scales corresponding to the four dimensions of type theory. The MBTI uses a
shorthand designation for eight personality characteristics: E for Extraversion and I for
Introversion; S for Sensing and N for Intuition; T for Thinking and F for Feeling; J for Judgment

and P for Perception. The combinations of ones preferences allow for sixteen basic personality
types.
Refer to the literature on personality types for in-depth descriptions of each of the sixteen types.
For more details about what characteristics each of the eight MBTI letters encompass, see the
short test at the end of this document.
Attitude: Extraversion and Introversion.
Does your interest flow mainly to . . .

(E) the outer world of actions, objects, and persons? or

(I) the inner world of concepts and ideas?

Perceptive Process: Sensing and Intuiting.

Do you prefer to perceive . . .

(S) the immediate, real, practical facts of experience and life? or

(N) the possibilities, relationships, and meanings of experiences?

Judging Process: Thinking and Feeling.

Do you prefer to make judgments or decisions . . .

(T) objectively, impersonally, considering causes of events and where decisions may lead?
or

(F) subjectively and personally, weighing values of choices and how they matter to others?
Life-style Orientation: Judging and Perceiving.

Do you prefer mostly to live . . .

(J) in a decisive, planned, and orderly way, aiming to regulate and control events? or

(P) in a spontaneous, flexible way, aiming to understand life and adapt to it?
THE MENTAL PROCESSES (FUNCTIONS)

The four processes or functionsSensing, Intuition, Thinking, and Feelingare gifts that all
people are born with. The processes are at each persons disposal to develop and use in dealing
with the present and shaping the future. It is up to each person to recognize his or her true
preferencesbetween Sensing and Intuition, between Thinking and Feeling, and so on. The most
preferred function is called the Dominant (or sometimes Superior) function, the second most
preferred is called the Auxiliary, the third is called the Tertiary, and the least preferred is called the
Inferior.
Full development of type involves getting to be expertly skilled with one of the four
processes, the Dominant process, which actually bosses the other three processes and sets the
major goals in life. Type development also depends on skilled use of the Auxiliary process, which
is vital for balance, because it supplies judgment if the dominant is perceptive, or perception if the
dominant is judging. Finally, full type development requires learning to use the two less-favored
and less-developed processes (Tertiary and Inferior functions) appropriately.

Even though one might have a preference for one process over the other, when people realize
that Sensing works better than Intuition for gathering facts, but Intuition is better for seeing
possibilities, or that Thinking is better suited to organizing work, but Feeling is better in human
relations, they have the key to more effective use of all their gifts, each in its own field.
PERCEIVING PROCESSES: Sensing and Intuition
Sensing and Intuition are called the functions of perception. They are the mental processes we use
to collect and generate information.

Sensing (S) is the term used for perception of the observable by way of the senses.
Sensing is the direct perception of realities through sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell.

Intuition (N) is the term used for the indirect perception of things beyond the reach of the
senses, such as meanings, relationships, and possibilities by way of insight.
SENSING (S) types use both Sensing and Intuition, but prefer, and therefore develop, Sensing.
With good type development, the expertise in Sensing can lead to a differentiated awareness of
present experience, acute powers of observation, a memory for facts and detail, and a capacity for
realism, for seeing the world as it is. Traits characteristically developed as a consequence of a
preference for sensing include a reliance on experience rather than theory, a trust of the
conventional and customary way of doing things, a preference for beginning with what is known
and real, and then moving systematically, step by step, tying each new fact to past experience and
testing it for its relevance in practical use. To most Sensing types, real intelligence is
characterized as soundness, accuracy, and common sense.

Sensing is needed for pursuing or even casually observing hard facts; it is equally essential to
enjoying the moment of a sunrise, the crash of surf on a beach, the exhilaration of speed, and the
smooth working of ones body.
Sensing types are attracted to careers and settings where skillful application of well-learned
knowledge is more important than developing new solutions, where working with tangibles is
more important than using theory and insight, and where dealing with the immediate situation and
using sound, conventional wisdom is more important than making bold breakthroughs. If people
prefer Sensing, they use it more and become expert at noticing and remembering all the
observable facts. Because of their ever-growing fund of experience and knowledge of reality,
Sensing types tend to become realistic, practical, observant, fun-loving, and good at working with
a great number of facts.
INTUITIVE (N) types use both Sensing and Intuition, but prefer, and therefore develop,
Intuition. With good type development, Intuition provides insight into complexity, an ability to see
abstract, symbolic, and theoretical relationships, and a capacity to see future possibilities, often
creative ones. Attitudes characteristically developed as a result of a preference for Intuition
include a reliance on inspiration rather than on past experience, an interest in the new and untried,
and a preference for learning new materials through an intuitive grasp of meanings and
relationships. To most Intuitive types, real intelligence is shown by insight in grasping
complexities, and by flashes of imagination or creativity.
Intuition translates words into meaning and meaning into words whenever people read, write,
talk, or listen; people use Intuition when they invite the unknown into their conscious minds or
wait expectantly for a possibility, a solution, or an inspiration. Intuition works best for seeing how
situations might be handled. A thought that starts I wonder if is probably Intuition. The

declaration I see! is a flash of Intuition, and the thought Aha! indicates that Intuition has
brought to mind something enlightening and delightful.
Intuitive types are attracted to careers and settings where it is more important to find the
pattern in complex systems than it is to deal with practical details, where creating new knowledge
is more important than applying existing knowledge, where working with theory and imagination
is more important than dealing with tangibles, and where intellectual challenge is more important
than the enjoyment of the pleasures of everyday events. People who prefer Intuition tend to
become skilled at seeing possibilities. They learn that a possibility will come to them if they
confidently seek it. Valuing imagination and inspirations, Intuitive types become good at new
ideas, projects, and problem-solving.
JUDGMENT PROCESSES: Thinking and Feeling
Thinking and Feeling are called the functions of judgment. They are the mental processes we use
to make decisions and form judgments.

Thinking (T) is the term used for a logical decision-making process, aimed at an
impersonal finding. Thinking analyzes in terms of cause and effect, and it distinguishes
between true and false.

Feeling (F) is a term for a process of appreciation, making judgments in terms of a system
of subjective, personal values. Feeling is intentionally personal and is based on personal
values. It distinguishes between valued and not valued and between more valued and less
valued, and it guards whatever the feeling type values most.
Both Thinking and Feeling are considered rational processes because they use reasoning to
arrive at conclusions or decisions. Do not confuse the judgment process of Thinking with the
mental act of using intelligence, and do not confuse the judgment process of Feeling with having
emotions. All types who use Thinking in their decision-making process also feel emotions. All
types who use Feeling in their decision-making process also use their intelligence.

THINKING (T) types use both Thinking and Feeling but prefer to use Thinking for making
judgments. With good type development, expertise in Thinking leads to powers of analysis and an
ability to weigh facts objectively, including consequences, unintended as well as intended.
Attitudes typically developed from a preference for Thinking include objectivity, impartiality, a
sense of fairness and justice, and skill in applying logical analysis. They are inclined to make
decisions by analyzing and weighing the facts, including the unpleasant ones. Thinking types are
attracted to areas where tough-mindedness and technical skills are needed. (Note: More males
than females prefer Thinking judgment.)
FEELING (F) types use Thinking and Feeling but prefer to reach judgments through Feeling.
With good type development, Feeling leads to development of values and standards, and a
knowledge of what matters most to themselves and other people. Attitudes typically resulting
from a preference for Feeling include an understanding of people and a wish to affiliate with them,
a desire for harmony, and a capacity for warmth, empathy, and compassion. Feeling types are
attracted to areas where understanding and communication with people are needed, and find the
interpersonal skills more interesting than the technical skills. (Note: More females than males
prefer Feeling judgment.)

THE THIRD DIMENSION: Extraversion and Introversion

Jung identified a third dimension of personality structure: Extraversion-Introversion. He invented
these terms. Extraverting means outward-turning and Introverting means inward-turning. We all
do both regularly, every day. We turn outside of ourselves to act in the world, and we turn into
ourselves to reflect. Of course, action without reflection is blind and may be fruitless; and
reflection that does not lead to action may be futile. Both Extraverting-action and Introvertingreflection are essential. However, each person is not equally at home in action and reflection.
Those who prefer Extraverting often say, When in doubt, act. Those who prefer Introverting are
more likely to say, When in doubt, reflect on the matter more deeply.
To Extravert is to think out loud, to reveal half-thought ideas, to process ones experiences
outwardly, as a means of doing ones best mental work. To Introvert is to keep ideas inside, where
the best mental work goes on, and polish the ideas until they are ready to be exposed. So people
who prefer Extraverting, whom we call Extraverts, are seen as more outgoing, and those who
prefer inner processing, whom we call Introverts, are seen as reserved. Extraverting means
looking outward for interests, values, and stimulation. Introverting means looking inward for
these.
Extraverting and Introverting also refer to how the dominant processS, N, T, or Fis
used. A person whose preference is for Extraversion most often uses the dominant mental process
outwardly, where it is visible to others. A person whose preference is for Introversion most often
uses the dominant process inwardly, privately. It is no surprise that people who prefer
Extraverting are easier to get to know; they show their dominant process most readily. It takes
longer to get to know the ones who favor Introverting, who reserve their dominant for the inner
life.
THE FOURTH DIMENSION: Judging and Perceiving
Briggs and Myers elaborated Jungs ideas of psychological type and showed a fourth dimension
that is present, but not highlighted in the descriptions already given. The fourth dimension is the
attitude taken toward the outer world.
When a judgment process (T or F) is used in running ones outer life, the natural drive is to
have things decided, judged, settled, planned, organized, and managed according to plan. In this
personality pattern, the drive is always toward closure, toward having a settled system in place.
This is the Judging attitude toward the outer world, represented by the letter J as the fourth letter
of the type designation, for example ESFJ or INTJ.
When a perception process (S or N) is used to run ones outer life, the natural drive is toward
keeping things open to new perceptions. The person wants to stay flexible, so as to adapt to
changing circumstances, and to experience life as widely as possible. In this personality pattern,
the drive is always toward keeping plans and organization to a necessary minimum so that one can
respond to new perceptions and adapt flexibly to new circumstances. This is the Perceiving
attitude toward the outer world, represented by the letter P as the fourth letter of the type
designation, for example ESFP or INTP.
Thus the fourth letter of the type designation is J or P. As we get to know a person, the J-P
aspect of his or her type is often the first to be noticed. A persons planful or spontaneous nature is
quickly apparent.

Directing ones outer life in a planful way, as Js do, seems readily understandable. What is the
P way? Being receptive and spontaneous do not appear to be ways of directing ones life. They
appear reactive and not proactive. Arent the P types proactive? The analogy of steering a sailboat
may fit here. This activity requires many adjustments in a short span of time, actions that appear
spontaneous and impulsive rather than based on judgment. Actually, many judgments are
happening very quickly. And each adjustment, the steering required, quickly takes into account the
changing conditions and how they interact with the steerers intentions. There are good reasons to
believe that the Perceiving types tend toward occupations that require this kind of steering,
adjusting to changing events; occupations such as fine artist, artisan, journalist, craftsman, laborer,
actor, and psychologist.

THE FOUR DOMINANT FUNCTIONS

In good type development, one of the four functions (either Sensing, Intuition, Thinking, or
Feeling) will become the dominant function in ones personality. The dominant function is the
function in charge of a persons conscious mental life, the central theme around which a person
organizes consciousness. The remaining three functions are the Auxiliary, Tertiary, and Inferior,
and they operate in cooperation with (although sometimes in opposition to) the Dominant
function. For good type development to take place, each function must be used and refined
throughout a persons lifetime.
Dominant Sensing: Those who have Sensing as their dominant function are above all else
practical people. Their close attention to data provided by the senses makes them well attuned to
immediate experiences, the literal facts at hand, the concrete realities. Characteristics associated
with the Sensing function include looking at information in terms of facts and details; focusing
more on the here and now rather than possibilities for the future; feeling comfortable in areas of
proven experience; taking a realistic approach.
People with Extraverted or Introverted Sensing both concentrate on data from the five senses
and pay attention to tangible things and factual data; however, they use that data very differently.
People with Introverted Sensing (Si) as their dominant (or auxiliary) trust their previous
experience. They consistently compare present conditions to the past and see no reason to change
what has worked before. But people with Extraverted Sensing (Se) are totally in the here and
now. They trust what can be experienced right now and resist analyzing (or learning from) the
past, preferring to move ahead right away.

The two types with Dominant Extraverted Sensing are ESTP and ESFP. Their
contribution: Action in the moment. Only the Extraverted Sensing types really enjoy the
present moment for what it is and get everything they can out of it. They arent just there
in the present, theyre active in the present. (The two types with Extraverted Sensing as
Auxiliary are ISTP and ISFP.)

The two types with Dominant Introverted Sensing are ISTJ and ISFJ. Their contribution:
Stability. If the time for Extraverted Sensing types is now, the time for Introverted
Sensing types is forever. They have a nose for what is timeless in life, for what lasts, and
for what should not be changed. (The two types with Introverted Sensing as Auxiliary are
ESTJ and ESFJ.)
Dominant Intuition: Those who have Intuition as their dominant function have their
consciousness mainly focused on associations, abstractions, theories, and possibilities that do not

depend directly on the senses. Above all else, they believe in intuitive insights and imagination to
set lifes directions. Characteristics associated with the Intuition function include looking at
information from a global viewpoint, spotting patterns and relationships that lead to an
understanding of the key issues; focusing more on possibilities for the future than the here-andnow; enjoying change, challenge, and variety.
People with a preference for Intuition are often described as thinking in terms of possibilities
and what could be, using their sixth sense to trust flashes of intuition. That description, however,
leaves out important aspects of Extraverted and Introverted Intuition. The person with
Extraverted Intuition (Ne) as a dominant (or auxiliary) function sees possibilities stimulated by the
external world. These possibilities come from the conscious and are, therefore, easy for others to
connect with.
Introverted Intuitives (Ni), on the other hand, receive their flashes from the unconscious,
creating possibilities from an inner vision that are more difficult for others to relate to. People who
expect to hear about possibilities from an Intuitive may be surprised when a person with
Introverted Intuition seems to be governed by an internal vision that is hard to articulate.

The two types with Dominant Extraverted Intuition are ENTP and ENFP. Their
contribution: Hope. When your progress is stopped by an intangible obstacle, like your
belief that you cant go any further; you should call in an Extraverted Intuitive. Theyll
rearrange your perceptions, or suggest something you hadnt thought of, to get you going
again soon. (The two types with Extraverted Intuition as Auxiliary are INTP and INFP.)

The two types with Dominant Introverted Intuition are INTJ and INFJ. Their contribution:
Foresight. If you want to peek into a crystal ball that works, talk to an Introverted
Intuitive. Youll find that most of them spend a lot of time thinking about very big issues,
cultural attitudes, or systems that seem wrong, and how they could be better. (The two
types with Introverted Intuition as Auxiliary are ENTJ and ENFJ.)
Dominant Thinking: Those who have Thinking judgment as their dominant mental process are
above all else logical, and have orderly, analytical minds. All experience must fit into logical
mental systems, or the systems must be reworked to accommodate perceptions that dont fit.
Characteristics associated with the Thinking function include making decisions on the basis of
logic, using objective considerations; concern with the truth, principles, and justice; being
analytical and critical, tending to see the flaws in situations; taking an objective approach.

Thinking decisions avoid using the decision-makers values and reveal little about the
persons values. Thinking decisions describe criteria as principlesas universal truths that stand
outside self. Thinking decisions set up syllogisms. (If A=B and B=C, then A=C.) Thinking
decisions link things together by logic. Thinking decisions, once set up, can be given away to
someone else to make.
Thinkers, while all influenced by objectivity and logic, differ in important ways. Those with
Extraverted Thinking (Te) focus their thinking on the outer worlds laws, rules, and regulations,
using an organizing framework evident to most people. People with Introverted Thinking (Ti) also
create frameworks, but theirs are internal ones using principles and truth that may be totally
invisible to others. One Thinker trusts internal logic and the other external logic. This may
explain why some thinkers seem directive while others seem content with their inside order and
seldom try to influence the outside world.

The two types with Dominant Extraverted Thinking are ESTJ and ENTJ. Their
contribution: Leadership. Extraverted Thinking types have the ability to organize their
thoughts in the presence of other people, and express them immediately with a logic that
everyone can follow. (The two types with Extraverted Thinking as Auxiliary are ISTJ and
INTJ.)

The two types with Dominant Introverted Thinking are ISTP and INTP. Their
contribution: Understanding. Introverted Thinking types are people who are almost
obsessed with figuring out how something works, who keep asking Why, why, why? and
who can tune the world out and focus all their energy on finding the answer. (The two
types with Introverted Thinking as Auxiliary are ESTP and ENTP.)
Dominant Feeling: Those who have Feeling judgment as their dominant mental process direct
their lives toward human values and harmony, above all else. They weigh all experience as being
harmonious or dissonant with the values and priorities of their own lives and the others they care
about. They are naturally attuned to the subjective world of feelings and values, and more alert to
the humane issues in any situation. Characteristics associated with the Feeling function include
making decisions on the basis of personal values; being appreciative and accepting of people;
enjoying company and seeking harmony; assessing the impact of decisions on others, being
sympathetic or compassionate; taking a personal approach.

Feeling decisions use the decision-makers values. Feeling decisions describe criteria as values
what I want or dont want, or what I like or dislike. Feeling decisions clarify and apply the
values of the decision-maker. Feeling decisions arrange things according to their value to the
person making the decision and can only be made by the decision-maker.
Feelers are often described as seeking harmony. But that can be harmony within for those
with Introverted Feeling (Fi) or harmony without for those with Extraverted Feeling (Fe). The
Fe may meet the more common description of a Feeler, concerned with harmony among people,
the interpersonal climate, and what is acceptable in the culture. But Introverted Feelers strive for
harmony with their own values and ethics. They define for themselvesand then trustbasic
principles and truths by which they want to run their lives.
Once again, one definition for both these functions can miss some key distinctions. People
with Introverted Feeling (Fi) may be confused about their type because, based on the generic
definition, they expect themselves to be consistently concerned with how others are feeling in a
situation.

The two types with Dominant Extraverted Feeling are ESFJ and ENFJ. Their contribution:
Harmony. Extraverted Feeling types are best at bringing people into cooperation,
agreement, mutual understanding, or simply, enjoyment of each other. They use their
judgment when they are with people, and see most clearly what others can do to make
their lives better. (The two types with Extraverted Feeling as Auxiliary are ISFJ and INFJ.)

The two types with Dominant Introverted Feeling are ISFP and INFP. Their contribution:
Morality. Introverted Feeling types become the true guardians of morality in our culture
because they lead, not by persuasion, but by example. They use their judgment when they
are alone, so they see most clearly what they must do to make the world a better place.
(The two types with Introverted Feeling as Auxiliary are ESFP and ENFP.)
A Note About Thinking and Feeling Judgments: It is also important to keep in mind that we
often use both Thinking and Feeling at the same time. When we are doing this, the less dominant

one is a little unfocused, working in the background where it may not be recognized. In much the
same way, complex decisions often involve both T and the F. We approach the decision with either
T or F first, but in establishing criteria, we may dip over into the other side, thus using the
opposite preference as a check on ourselves. A consideration to keep in mind when determining
whether a decision-making process is a Thinking or Feeling one: Can the decision be given
away? In other words, would someone else come to the same decision once you established the
criteria? If so, it is a Thinking decision.
According to Alan Brownsword, both Thinking and Feeling preferences can sometimes lead
to what he calls decision paralysis. With those who prefer Thinking, it comes when logic
provides no clear directionwhen the result is six of one and half dozen of the other. With
those who prefer Feeling, paralysis results when two powerful and opposing values are triggered
by the decision to be made. The Feeling person cannot decide which of the two values should
guide in this situation. Brownsword says, I have found it useful in situations like this to ask
Thinkers if they have a Feeling decision on the matter (and the opposite for Feelers) and if so, is
there any reason not to follow it.

THE AUXILIARY FUNCTION

If people trusted and developed only one of the four mental processes their lives would be
essentially one-dimensional. Unfortunately, we all know such people. There are some whose
perceptions are not focused or tempered by good judgment. What they perceive from moment to
moment, day to day, stirs their interest, and they flit from one interest to another without
adequately weighing the value of what they are doing or the logical consequences. They are
unstable like a sailboat with too much sail and not enough keel. And we know others whose
judgments are locked so tightly that they remain unrenewed by fresh perception. They are like the
sailboat with a keel too heavy for its small sail, keeping a steady course but not making much
progress. To avoid such one-sidedness, people must develop another of the mental processes to
be a major, reliable helper to the dominant. Jung called the second process the Auxiliary. It is
needed to balance the Dominant process, as balance is needed between sail and keel.
It is important to remember that if the Dominant process is Extraverted, the Auxiliary process
must be Introverted in order to achieve balance in the personality. Likewise, if the Dominant
process in Introverted, the Auxiliary must be Extraverted in order to achieve balance in the
personality.
For discussion of the Tertiary and Inferior processes (the two lesser developed processes or
functions after the Dominant and Auxiliary) see the literature on type, which gives suggestions on
how one can also develop these processes. For information on the Inferior function and how to
recognize and cope with it when in the grip of its immature development when one is under
stress, see Naomi Quenks book: Beside Ourselves: Our Hidden Personality in Everyday Life.
NOTE ON LOWEN: Isabel Myers calls the Dominant function our best process, the
governing force that dominates and unifies our lives. We enjoy, use, and trust it most. She
defines the Auxiliary function as supplementing the Dominant, not as a rival . . . but as a
welcome auxiliary. On the other hand, Lowen does not view the Auxiliary function as merely a
second in command. He sees it as having an entirely different role from the Dominant. Using
computer terms, he says that the Auxiliary represents the kind of data we prefer, and the
Dominant represents the kind of processing we prefer. Where Myers believed that the Dominant
was the most conscious part of our personality, Lowen believes that the Auxiliary is the most

conscious, in the sense that it is used most. Data collection, represented by the Auxiliary function,
must take place before we can process. And data collection goes on most of the time, while
processing happens less often. Therefore, the data capacity, as Lowen calls it, is the most-used
part of our brains, it contains the most memories, and is the most organized, or conscious.
But even though the data capacity may be the most conscious part of our brains, we do not
define ourselves by it. Data collection goes on quietly. We dont seem special, or gifted, while we
are taking in information. Its when we process data into actions, products, and creations that our
unique abilities become apparent for all to see. We define ourselves by what we do.
Lowen is not saying that Myers was wrong in defining people by their Dominant function, or
what they do best. Certainly, her system works, as her profiles have struck a resonant chord in
millions of people. But by attempting to define the kind of data we prefer, Lowen adds a great
deal to our understanding of personality. After all, people are not just what they do, or say, or
make, or conceive. They are also all those quiet moments when they are listening, looking,
touching, and intuiting. Where Myers helped us understand what people give out, Lowen is
helping us understand what people take in.
Myers called it the Auxiliary function; Lowen calls it the data capacity, or the kind of
information you are most interested in. Myers called it the Dominate function; Lowen calls it
the processor capacity, or what you prefer to do with that information.
Lowen hypothesized that the four types who prefer THINKING data, that is, those who use
Thinking as their Auxiliary function (ESTP, ENTP, ISTJ, INTJ), probably prefer using the sense
of sight. Thinking data is best described as inanimate (even people are translated into roles) and
the eye is the best tool for understanding the inanimate world. Inanimate things do, after all, sit
still. It is not difficult to take them apart and look at their inner workings. And inanimate things do
not have thoughts, which are largely hidden to the eye.
The four types who prefer FEELING data, that is, those who use Feeling as their Auxiliary
function (ESFP, ENFP, ISFJ, INFJ), probably prefer the sense of hearing. Feeling data is best
described as animate, most often people, and people make sounds. Human thought and feelings
tend to be invisible to the eye and must be verbalized. When we use the words human contact,
we dont mean touching each other as much as we mean speaking and listening to each other.
The four types who prefer SENSING data, that is, those who use Sensing as their Auxiliary
function (ESFJ, ESTJ, ISFP, ISTP), probably prefer the sense of touch. A Sensing kind of data
is best described as concrete, and the concrete world must be experienced by contact with the
body.
The four types who prefer INTUITIVE data, that is, those who use Intuition as their
Auxiliary (ENFJ, ENTJ, INFP, INTP), probably prefer the sense of smell, which detects
atmosphere, and which Lowen found seems to be more important to Intuitives than Sensing types.
(We sometimes use smell as a metaphor for the sixth sense, such as Somethings in the wind or
I smell trouble.) But more likely, there really is such a thing as the sixth sense. This sixth sense
perceives all the reality not available to the five senses, or the invisible connections between
things. For example, there is the invisible connection between a thing and its symbol (language is
an example), or between what is and what could be (possibilities), or between all things (the
meaning or structure of life). The sixth sense allows us to connect in imagination what we learn
from sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell.
Each sense opens up a different world:

SIGHT opens up the inanimate THINKING world

HEARING opens up the animate FEELING world

TOUCH opens up the concrete SENSING world

SIXTH SENSE opens up the abstract INTUITIVE world

People take in information most easily when it comes to them through their preferred
sense. Knowing this, we can consider these senses whenever were trying to understand or be
understood.

Sight: ESTPs, ENTPs, ISTJs, and INTJs prefer input from the sense of sight. To
reach them, you need charts, graphs, and illustrations of all the important concepts.
Hearing: ESFPs, ENFPs, ISFJs, and INFJs prefer the sense of hearing, so
communication to them should be mostly verbal. That doesnt just mean that it have to
be spoken out loud. The printed word can be heard if it is rich with the emphases,
pauses, exchanges, asides, and feeling intonations that accompany conversation.
Touch: ESFJs, ESTJs, ISFPs, and ISTPs prefer the sense of touch, which means
simply, they learn best by doing. They reach understanding by practice more than
explanation. However, lectures and reading can be made more interesting to them by
including descriptions of action, or prescriptions of action.

Sixth Sense: ENFJs, ENTJs, INFPs, and INTPs prefer to take in information through
the sixth sense. That means they need to see how things connect. Information cannot
be processed in isolation but must appear with appendages that link it to everything
else. You can catch their attention with metaphors, symbols, and by linking ideas to
other ideas.
Got a good idea? If we are trying to be understood, we can try to present material in ways
that appeal to sight, hearing, touch, and the sixth sense.

Say it in clear, conversational language, interjecting quotes (for those who prefer
hearing)

Make it visible with drawings, charts, graphs, or films (for those who prefer sight)

Describe the action that could result from your idea (for those who prefer touch)

Link it to other ideas, other fields, and if you can, to the universe and eternity (for
those who prefer the sixth sense)

THE FUNCTION (or PREFERENCE) PAIRS: ST, SF, NT, NF

The following discusses the combinations of the two middle MBTI letters, known as the function
pairs. Everyone uses both of the perceiving processesSensing and Intuitionand both of the
judging processesThinking and Feelingbut everyone prefers to use one of each pair over the
other. That makes four function or preference pairs: Sensing plus Thinking (ST), Sensing plus
Feeling (SF), Intuition plus Thinking (NT), and Intuition plus Feeling (NF). Myers called the ST
combination practical and matter-of-fact, the SF combination sympathetic and friendly, the NT
combination logical and ingenious, and the NF combination enthusiastic and insightful. Jung
observed that in each persons preferred pair one of the processes (or functions) is dominant. It

has the leadership in the personality, it serves as the centerpost, and the other processes are
helpers in the persons mental framework.
If one of the mental processes were not dominant, that is, in charge of a persons conscious
mental life, the person would not have a central theme around which to organize consciousness.
The dominant serves to unify a persons life.
ST (Sensing and Thinking) The Impersonal Realists:
STs like to learn and do things that are impersonal, specific, and practical. They like things
that can be decided through logical analysis.
SF (Sensing and Feeling) The Service Providers
SFs like to learn and do things that deal with people in specific and concrete ways. They
like things that can be decided by identifying and applying values.
NT (Intuition and Thinking) The Conceptualizers
NTs like to learn and do things that give them opportunities to logically analyze things that
are complex or abstract. They like to think big, to see possibilities, and establish new
directions.
NF (Intuition and Feeling) The People-possibility People
NFs like to learn and do things that involve working with human values and human
potential. They enjoy being able to focus on long-range possibilities and situations
requiring ingenuity.
THE EXTRAVERTED FUNCTION COMBINATIONS
The following discusses the effects of combining the second or third letter of the MBTI (the
functions) with the last letter of the MBTI, judging or perceiving. How others see us is powerfully
affected by what we show the worldour Perceiving or Judging preference combined with our
Extraverted function (Sensing, Intuition, Thinking, or Feeling).
SP (Sensing and Perceiving) The Active Experimenters
SPs solve problems by doing things. In doing, they learn what works and what doesnt.
They are impatient with talking about problems and how to solve them. They are not
interested in complicated conceptual problems that do not seem to lead to immediate,
practical action.
NP (Intuition and Perceiving) The Brainstormers
NPs like complex, conceptual problems. They are quick to come up with possibleoften
ingenioussolutions. They are best at the brainstorming stage of problem solving. They
must resist coming to conclusionsthe fun is in the exploring, not the following through.
They are not generally interested in problems or issues that are routine or involve details.
TJ (Thinking and Judging) The Executives
TJs like being in charge. They decide things impersonally and logicallyoften quickly. In
problem-solving situations, they want to get quickly through the data-gathering,
brainstorming phases. They want to sort out the wheat from the chaff, decide what needs
to be done and follow through.

FJ (Feeling and Judging) The Diplomats

FJs express their sensitivity to people. When problem-solving, they want to know how
people will be affected. They are quick to identify issues concerning morale. They want
things settled and move toward closure in firm, diplomatic, and tactful ways. They affirm
and compliment others easily and effectively.
THE ATTITUDE PAIRS
The combinations of attitudes (Extraversion and Introversion) together with Judging or
Perceiving provide important insights into how people communicate.
EJ (Extraversion and Judging) Open and Decisive
For EJs, to have a conclusion is to share it. They move conversations to decisions or
judgments. They work things out as they talk. They can give the appearance of being more
decided than they really are.
EP (Extraversion and Perceiving) Persuasive and Spontaneous
Often sparkling conversationalists, EPs enjoy repartee, often introducing an element of
competitiveness and debate into discussions. At their best in situations calling for exploring
data and options, EPs may resist coming to conclusions.
IJ (Introversion and Judging) Reflective and Determined
In the early stages of discussion, IJs may be silent observers. They turn information over in
their minds, identifying other relevant data internally. When they do join the conversation,
they move it to closure, sometimes with considerable stubbornness.
IP (Introversion and Perceiving) Thoughtful and Intense
Often appearing lost in thought in the initial stages of discussions, IPs are forming
judgments internally. When they have internal clarity, they are likely to become more
actively involved, often intensely so. In situations calling for exploring information, they
may become more quickly and actively involved.
KEEPING TYPE LANGUAGE CLEAR
ATTITUDE: Two directions for the flow of energyExtraversion (outward) and Introversion
(Inward). Typologically speaking, a fundamental or a priori orientation of the personality in which
libido either moves toward the object and away from the subject (extraversion) or is withdrawn
from the object and put back into the interests of the subject (introversion).
FUNCTIONS: Four basic mental processessensation and intuition, which are referred to as
irrational or perceiving functions, and thinking and feeling, which are referred to as rational or
judging functions. Any function may be introverted or extraverted, depending upon its orientation
to the object.
PERCEPTION: The two functions or processes for perceivingSensing and Intuition.
JUDGMENT: The two functions or processes for decision-makingThinking and Feeling.

A SHORTCUT TO TYPE: THE FOUR TEMPERAMENTS

SP, SF, NT, NF
The four Temperaments are a convenient shortcut to understanding the sixteen MBTI personality
types. Temperaments are useful because they afford the widest base of accurate behavioral
predictions. Even if we dont understand how all four MBTI letters fit together, each two-letter
Temperament combination helps us to predict such things as how people teach, learn, lead others,
entertain, manage money, and relate to others.
According to Keirsey and Bates, the S-N difference is the first key to determining your
Temperament. The reason is that differences in how people gather information from the world are
the most basic of human differences. Without some understanding of where someone is coming
from (as far as information-gathering goes), communication is extremely difficult, as each
individual believes his or her own data are the data. If I see a tree and you see a forest, each of us
believes were right and distrusts the others information-gathering process. A tree is a tree is a
tree to a Sensor; for an Intuitive, a tree is part of a system, an organic whole called a forest. The
tree therefore prompts images of the forestwhen viewed by an Intuitive. Is a cup half empty or
half full? Sensors and Intuitives each see it differently: Intuitives, who see possibilities in
everything, will be more optimistic about the glasss contents; Sensors, who focus only on whats
actually there, not on what could be there, are less inclined to see the potential. Before either type
begins to make a decision (Thinking or Feeling), and regardless of whether its expressed
internally or externally (Introvert or Extravert), the data must first be gathered.
So the first letter of a Temperament is either S or N, the information-gathering function. The
second letter of a Temperament is determined in part by what the first letter is.
SENSORS (S): If you are a Sensor, your preference for gathering information is concrete and
tactile. The next most important preference is not how you evaluate the data but what you do with
them: do you organize them (Judging), or do you continue to take them in, perhaps even seeking
more (Perceiving)? For Sensors, the two Temperament groups are SJ and SP.
INTUITIVES (N): If you are an Intuitive, your preference for gathering data is abstract and
conceptual. The second most important preference in reading your Temperament is not what you
do with them but how you prefer to evaluate the data you have gathered: objectively (Thinking)
or subjectively (Feeling). For Intuitives, the two basic Temperament groups are NT and NF.
Each of the sixteen MBTI types falls into one of these four Temperaments, four types to each
Temperament. Learning these Temperament shortcuts will provide you with genuine insights and
useful tools for developing Typewatching skills.

The following information gives an overview of each of the four Temperaments, followed by individual
descriptions for the four MBTI types within each Temperament.

The SP Temperament
21.4 percent of US population
ISTPISFPESTPESFP
IF YOU ARE AN SP: Acting and Impacting. The S means that you use your Senses of seeing,
hearing, feeling, tasting, and smelling to take in facts and information. The P means that you use
Perception in dealing with your world; that is, you like to scan the world around you in an
ongoing search for information to help you choose what to do in your present situation. You
prefer keeping your options open rather than closing them off. The characteristics of this
combination make you an SP who is action-oriented and focuses on whats happening now.
SPs data collection is practical and realistic (Sensing), to which they bring spontaneity and
flexibility (Perceiving), which makes them the original now generation. Their Sensing grounds
them in the reality of the moment, and their Perceiving keeps them open for other ways of dealing
with that reality. The only thing an SP can be sure of is the moment; a long-range plan is a
contradiction in terms. Their quest is for action, leading them to act now, pay later.
They are attracted to careers that have immediate, tangible rewards: fire fighting, emergency
medicine, mechanics, farming, carpentry, and anything involving technical skills. Although they are
frequently misunderstood because of their somewhat hedonistic, live-for-now nature, they make
excellent negotiators and troubleshooters.
SPs strengths (which, when maximized, become liabilities) include

practicality;

adept problem-solving skills, particularly at hands-on tasks;

resourcefulness;

a special sense of immediate needs.

Management: SP managers are geniuses at generating solutions. But they are not above
intentionally creating crises to solve, just to give them a sense of purpose.

Mating: SP mates can be a thrill a minute and a surprise a minute, which can be intense to a
partner whose type demands predictability. Planning and structure are always low priorities.
Parenting: SP parents proclivity for life in the here and now means that they may forget promises
made yesterday and neglect a vision for their childs futurebut deliver very handsomely on
immediate expectations.
Teaching: SP teachers are best when teaching practical, hands-on skills, such as industrial arts,
vocational-technical skills, and elementary-school subjects, tending to shy away from areas that
are more theoretical or abstract. Lesson plans are the bane of their existence.
Learning: SP students often shun intellectual pursuits. They learn best those subjects that seem
practical and immediately rewarding.

Money: SPs are the original high rollers, tending to win big and lose big. Money, like almost
everything else, is something of the moment. Budgets and financial plans are therefore out of
the question.
The SP must be free; he will not be tied or bound or confined or obligated. To do as he
wishes when he wishes, thats the ideal. To wait, to save, to store, to prepare, to live for
tomorrowthat is not the way. For the SP, today must be enjoyed, for tomorrow never comes.
Actions the thing, and to understand the SP it is necessary to understand the kind of action he
insists upon. Action must be its own endit cannot serve a purpose or be instrumental in
achieving a goal. Although the SP does not object when his deeds contribute to ends held by
others, that cannot be his reason for doing what he does. He does things because he has the urge,
the whim.
SPs are, in essence, impulsive. They want to be impulsive. To be impulsive is to be really
alive. SPs covet their impulses, enjoy feeling them well up within; and they love discharging them,
like setting off an explosion. SPs even feel guilty if they dont have impulses! At one time or
another we all feel these sudden urges to do something, but most of us ignore them, looking
instead to more distant, more patient goals. We discipline this impulse to freedom in the name of
Duty, Powers, or Spirit, while the SP feels only bound and confined.
This is not to say the SP does not acquire goals and ties just like the rest of us. He does, of
course, only they are fewer and more tentatively held. If the ties become too numerous or too
binding, then the SP is likely to become restless and perhaps experience the urge to take off for
somewhere else.
More than other temperaments the SP is subject to function lust: a hunger for action
without fetter or constraint, an exploratory action without the necessity for rules or practice. The
SP thrives on situations where the outcome is not known, where there is freedom to test the
limits. Of all the styles, the SP works best in crises, and the deeper the crisis, the more apt he is to
respond quickly and dramatically. If a situation with little variation occurs, the SP becomes
disinterested; as the range of possibilities and emergencies increases, the vigor with which the SP
takes on the task accelerates. In fact, when circumstances become too dull and routine, the SP has
been known to create a crisisjust to liven things up a little.
SPs frequently are described by friends as exciting, optimistic, cheerful, light-hearted, and
full of fun. Socially, SPs tend to be charming and witty conversationalists, often having an
inexhaustible repertoire of jokes and stories. Wherever they go, SPs (especially the extraverted
SPs) lend an electricity to the environment and the people in that environment. The SP brings to
work and to play a sense that something exciting is about to happen. The atmosphere takes on a
glow, seems brighter, more colorfulcharged with adventure.
In fact, SPs can easily become bored with the status quo. They like to vary their work
patterns each day; they are usually ready to take time out for entertainment, trying out new foods,
new places to eat, and vacation spots. An SP is likely to enjoy randomness, varying the dinner
hour, wanting to eat whenever the impulse strikes. This tends to be disconcerting to the more
orderly personalities (the SJ for example), and can lead to difficulty when an SP marries. Yet SPs
do live life with a flourish, which others often envy and admire.
This penchant for acting on impulse contains a seeming paradox, for SPs, living only for
immediate action, become the worlds great performing artists: the virtuosos of art, entertainment,
and adventure. The great painters, instrumentalists, vocalists, dancers, sculptors, photographers,
athletes, hunters, racers, gamblersall need the skills which come only from excited

concentration on an activity for long periods. No other type can mobilize what virtuosity takes:
untold hours of continuous action. Once caught up in his action-hunger, the SP can persevere in
that action for hour after hour, continuing long after other types would have abandoned the effort.
And it is this impulsive stamina that makes virtuosity possible. The SP seems to be the sole
possessor of perfection in action, and yet he never practices in the sense that others do. The NT,
for example, seeks perfection; yet perfection evades him. The SP is oblivious to the pursuit of
perfection, does not practice in order to achieve it, and yet achieves it. The NT knowingly and
deliberately practicesby the clock, by the book. The SP simply and spontaneously acts,
endlessly, tirelessly, caught up and possessed by the act itself, having no end beyond the doing.
Performers in the arts are apt to be SPs; but also the racer, the surfer, the soldier of fortune, the
magician, the card sharp, even the gunslinger of the Old West.
The SPs need to live more fully in the present than any other style sometimes irritates others
who expect to maintain the same level of intensity. The style is often subject to denigration.
People become fascinated and charmed by the SPs way of life, then disappointed when the SP
does not live up to the projections other types place on him.
SPs do not get very excited about complex problems of motivation. For them, whatever is, is.
That is sufficient for the SP to know what to think, what to do, and what to believe. As superrealists, they do not require that their actions be governed by established policy, rules, or natural
laws, as do other styles. Because the SP often leaps before looking, he is more subject to
accidents than other temperaments; he injures himself through inattention to possible sources of
defeat or accident, his optimism living on his abiding sense of luck.
KEIRSEY on SPs: Myers had SPs probing around their immediate surroundings in order to
detect and exploit any favorable options that came within reach. Having the freedom to act on the
spur of the moment, whenever or wherever an opportunity arises, is very important to SPs. No
chance is to be blown, no opening missed, no angle overlookedwhatever or whoever might turn
out to be exciting, pleasurable, or useful is checked out for advantage. Though they may differ in
their attitude toward tough-mindedness (T) and friendliness (F) in exploring for options, and
though some are socially expressive (E) and some reserved (I), all of them make sure that what
they do is practical and effective in getting what they want.
Consistent with this view Myers described SPs as adaptable, artistic, and athleticas very
much aware of reality and never fighting itas open-minded and ever on the lookout for
workable compromisesas knowing whats going on around them and as able to see the
needs of the momentas storing up useful facts and having no use for theoriesas
easygoing, tolerant, unprejudiced, and persuasiveas gifted with machines and tools
as acting with effortless economyas sensitive to color, line, and textureas wanting firsthand experiences and in general enjoying life. So SPs, as seen by Myers, are very much like
one another and very much different from the other types, the SJs, NFs, and NTs.
Brief sketches of the four MBTI types belonging to the SP Temperament:

ISTP
Most pragmatic. Ready to try anything once
6.4 % Total in U.S. population
6.5% White
8.5% Afr. Amer.

0.0% Hispanic
8.7% Male
4.3% Female
Dominant Introverted Thinking with Auxiliary Extraverted Sensing.
The Dominant function is the judging one of Thinking. Characteristics associated with this
function include making decisions on the basis of logic, using objective considerations; being
concerned with truth, principles, and justice; being analytical and critical, tending to see the flaws
in situations; and taking an objective approach.
The judging Thinking function is introverted and used primarily to govern the inner world of
thoughts and emotions. The ISTP will

spend time thinking analytically, organizing thoughts on a logical basis;

develop an understanding of the principles involved in a situation;

spontaneously feel critical of a person or situation, but not necessarily express that criticism;

be inwardly decisive, but not communicate those decisions to others;

think mostly about impersonal issues, focusing more on concepts, truths, and systems rather
than individuals feelings.
The Sensing perception is used primarily to manage the outer world of actions and spoken words.
This will modify the way that the Thinking is directed by

focusing the (inner world) Thinking on understanding practical or mechanical problems;

perceiving appropriate facts to support the logical analysis.

ISTPs are realists who apply expediency and reasoning as they manage and adapt to situations.
They are aware of what is going on in the environment and are able to respond quickly to the
actual facts, making sure the odds of success are in their favor. They do not like to be tied down
and will feel hamstrung when they must operate within tight structures and schedules. They are
able to anticipate immediate, practical needs in situations and to present a logical, straightforward
plan for meeting those needs. They are at their best in situations that require immediate attention.

Cool onlookersquiet, reserved, observing and analyzing life with detached curiosity and
unexpected flashes of original humor. Usually interested in cause and effect, how and why
mechanical things work, and organizing facts using logical principles. Excel at getting to the core
of a practical problem and finding the solution.
JUST DO IT: ISTPs are frequently described with the old clichesstill water runs deep, or a
man of few wordsand they are difficult to read by others and slow to share in public. These
qualities (Introversion), coupled with perceptions that are hands-on, tangible, grounded, and very
much oriented in the present (Sensor), give the ISTP a somewhat cool demeanor. Decisions are
typically objective, impersonal, and analytically driven (Thinking). The ISTPs daily lifestyle is
spontaneous, flexible, and spur-of-the-moment (Perceiving), so that no matter what person or
event comes along, the ISTP will be inclined to direct immediate attention, albeit privately, to the
new set of circumstances.
People with ISTP preferences use their thinking to look for principles underlying the sensory
information that comes into awareness. As a result, they are logical, analytical, and objectively
critical. They are not likely to be convinced by anything but reasoning based on solid facts.

While they like to organize facts and data, they prefer not to organize situations or people
unless they must for the sake of their work. They can be intensely but quietly curious. Socially
they may be rather shy except with their best friends. They sometimes become so absorbed with
one of their interests that they can ignore or lose track of external circumstances.
LOWEN on data capacity: ISTPs touch for signs. ISTPs preferred method of gathering
data is through the sense of touch. A Sensing kind of data is best described as concrete, and the
concrete world must be experienced by contact with the body. ISTPs gather an intimate,
experiential knowledge of how a thing works and remember it by seeing a sign of the thing.
They are the ones who never lose the childs reckless, impulsive, natural, and voracious curiosity
about the properties of things, and how things work. They are the ones who seem to have a
feel, a knack, for things. The Germans have a word, fingerspitzengefhl, or knowledge in the
fingers, which describes the kind of knowledge that ISTPs are most interested in.
LOWEN on processor capacity: ISTPs feature the signs. ISTPs are best at deciding upon
the most direct and compact response to the physical world. Lowen calls this skill seeing the
feature, or the essential information. The ISTPs ability to zero in on what is most essential is not
only valuable in an emergency, but it allows ISTPs to find the most direct and compact response
to many things. ISTPs are naturally suited for work where they can gather a lot of sensory, or
concrete, data (their data is signs), and then make decisions on the most efficient action to take
next. They do this in emergency situations, but Lowen says that this is what artisans, sculptors,
and carpenters do every day, gathering information from touch as their hands run over the surface
of the work piece, and then deciding upon the most direct and compact response. But no matter
what kind of field they enter, because they have a good sense of the essential information, ISTPs
go about their work with quiet competence, and have a calming effect on the people around them.
What ISTPs are really asking when they ask questions: Let me feel the signs of its nature.
CAREERS that are attractive to the ISTP molder: Carpenter, construction worker, dental
hygienist, engineer, electrical technician or engineer, farmer, mechanic and repairer, military
personnel, probation officer, sculptor, steel worker, transportation operative, and other
occupations that allow ISTPs to use their ability to act expediently.
IN A NUTSHELL: Logical. Expedient. Practical. Realistic. Factual. Analytical. Applied.
Independent. Adventurous. Spontaneous. Adaptable. Self-determined.
Practical ANALYZER; values exactness; more interested in organizing data than situations or
people; reflective, a cool and curious observer of life.
What most drives ISTPs: RISK
What most drives them wild: REDUNDANCY
TYPE PATTERNS IN DEVELOPED ADULT ISTPs: Logical, factual, focus on what is relevant
to here and now, constantly analyzing, often seen as detached, thorough, practical-minded
problem solvers, highly value independence.
See Keirsey: http://keirsey.com/personality/spit.html

ISFP
Most artistic. Sees much but shares little
4.5 % Total in U.S. population
4.3% White

4.0% Afr. Amer.

7.4% Hispanic
2.3% Male
6.4% Female
Dominant Introverted Feeling with Auxiliary Extraverted Sensing
The Dominant function is the judging one of Feeling. Characteristics associated with this function
include making decisions on the basis of personal values; being appreciative and accepting of
peopleenjoying company and seeking harmony; assessing the impact of decisions on others,
being sympathetic or compassionate; and taking a personal approach.
The judging Feeling function is introverted and used primarily to govern the inner world of
thoughts and emotions. The ISFP will

develop an inner emotional life that is often unseen by others, but is experienced as intense;

retain a strong sense of values, which are often not expressed;

emotionally accept or reject various aspects of lifefor example, deciding whether praise or
criticism received is valid and, at extreme, ignoring whatever is unacceptable;

feel appreciation toward others, but not express it.

The Sensing perception is used primarily to manage the outer world of actions and spoken words.
This will modify the way that the Feeling is directed by

focusing the (inner world) Feeling on current relationships and people, e.g. through one-toone discussions and fact-based conversation;
seeking to enjoy the company of those they know, and being concerned for their well-being
and happiness;

helping people in practical ways.

ISFPs, in general, are gentle and compassionate, open and flexible. They are considerate of others
and do not force their views and opinions on them. They often focus on meeting others needs,
especially those who are less fortunate. Having a quiet, modest, self-effacing style, ISFPs avoid
disagreements and seek harmony with people as well as with nature. They enjoy lifes precious
moments and often add a touch of beauty to the environments where they spend their time. They
are at their best ensuring others well-being.

Retiring, quietly friendly, sensitive, kind, modest about their abilities. Shun disagreements; do
not force their opinions or values on others. Usually do not care to lead but are often loyal
followers. Often relaxed about getting things done because they enjoy the present moment and do
not want to spoil it by undue haste or exertion.
ACTION SPEAKS LOUDER THAN WORDS: Each of the four preferences feed each other in
helping the ISFP relate to others rather than invading their space. The ISFP begins by focusing
internally rather than externally (Introversion) and strives to be sure that his or her own internal
world is in order. Their principal goal is not to reshape others so much as to define their own
needs and concerns. The world itself is very tactile, immediate, and grounded (Sensing), and this
is translated through the ISFPs subjective decision-making process (Feeling). They have a low
need to come to closure about any of these thingsIntroversion, Sensing, and Feeling
preferring to stay open and experience all of it (Perceiving).

As a result it is this type more than any of the others whose style is to stand by another
person (or plant or animal), with no intention to influence it, criticize it, or change itperhaps not
even to interact with itonly to be in its presence. Live and let live might be the motto of the
ISFP.
ISFPs are generally very easygoing, low-key types with little need to influence those around
them. They are so low key, in fact, that they can begin to question their own motivations, perhaps
even wondering why theyre not more given to controlling others and taking charge. Such
questions can lead to large doses of self-doubt. Perceivers are generally prone to second-guessing
their decisions, often wondering such things as, If we waited just a bit longer, would things have
turned out differently? When you couple P with internal, here-and-now subjectivity (ISF), most
of life becomes a series of what-if, let-it-alone, maybe-tomorrow-will-be-different experiences that
leave the ISFP vulnerable to severe self-criticism.
LOWEN on data capacity: ISFPs touch for signals. Their preferred method of gathering
data is through the sense of touch. A Sensing kind of data is best described as concrete, and the
concrete world must be experienced by contact with the body. ISFPs are best at gathering the data
called signals. Signals are our sensory reactions to the environment. A signal is how it feels
to look at red, to touch whiskers, to smell bread, scrape your foot, or miss lunch. Colors, tastes,
sounds, smells, textures, comforts, and discomforts make more of an impression on ISFPs than
any of the other types. In fact, you could say that ISFPs are the most sense-aware of the Sensing
types. Signal is the first capacity to develop in the brain of every child. It is where we all began.
It is a very simple, basic data. Although adult ISFPs develop their signal capacities into
sophisticated data banks of sensation memories that may become the raw material for great
accomplishments, they never lose the quality of being, as Lowen calls them, earth babies. ISFPs,
more than the other types, need to live and work in natural, or aesthetic environments, where
there is much to please their senses.
LOWEN on processor capacity: ISFPs match the signals. To match the signals means to
try to recreate exactly what you have touched, heard, seen, tasted, and smelled. It means to
celebrate the beauty of the physical world, and the senses that give us the ability to appreciate it.
People whose work is to match the physical world are realistic artists, craftspeople, chefs,
dancers, decorators, athletes, construction workers, heavy-equipment operators, and those who
tend to the immediate needs of animals, plants, or people.
What ISFPs are really asking when they ask questions: Let me feel the sensory signals.
CAREERS that are attractive to the ISFP doer: Athlete, bookkeeper, carpenter, clerical
supervisor and secretary, dancer, dental and medical staffers, food service worker, mechanic and
repairer, nurse, mechanic, personal service worker, physical therapist, storekeeper and stock clerk,
X-ray technician, and other occupations that allow ISFPs to provide gentle help to all living
things.
IN A NUTSHELL: Caring. Gentle. Modest. Adaptable. Sensitive. Observant. Cooperative. Loyal.
Trusting. Spontaneous. Understanding. Harmonious.
Observant, loyal HELPER; reflective, realistic, empathic; patient with details, gentle and retiring;
shuns disagreements; enjoys the moment.
What most drives ISFPs: BEAUTY
What most drives them wild: INSENSITIVITY

TYPE PATTERNS IN DEVELOPED ADULT ISFPs: Pride in self-control, seek affiliation, use
orderly ways to nurture others, careful about facts, reflective about current situations, seen as
quiet and introspective, express commitment and appreciation in specific terms.
See Keirsey: http://keirsey.com/personality/spif.html

ESTP
Most spontaneous. The ultimate realists
4.8 % Total in U.S. population
4.0% White
10.2% Afr. Amer.
5.6% Hispanic
6.2% Male
3.6% Female
Dominant Extraverted Sensing with Auxiliary Introverted Thinking
The Dominant function is the perceptive one of Sensing. Characteristics associated with this
function include looking at information in terms of facts and details; focusing more on the here
and now rather than possibilities for the future; feeling comfortable in areas of proven experience;
and taking a realistic approach.
The perceptive Sensing function is extroverted and used to govern the outer world of actions and
spoken words. The ESTP will

seek to experience and enjoy the world as it is;

be very responsive to current events, with life tending to be a succession of events;

be pragmatic in nature, constantly seeking to change the world to the way the ESTP wants it
to be;

observe in an objective way, valuing facts without necessarily putting an interpretation upon
them.
The Thinking judgment is introverted and is used primarily to manage the inner world of thoughts
and emotions. This will modify the way that the Sensing is directed by

focusing the (outer world) Sensing on impersonal facts and logical options;

enjoying action and events for themselves rather than for the company of others;

leading to enjoyment of material possessions.

ESTPs, in general, are action oriented, pragmatic, outgoing, and realistic people. In situations that
require resourcefulness, they use their quickness and flexibility to find the most efficient route to
accomplishing whatever needs to be done. They are lively, entertaining, and fun. They like to be
where the action is and participate fully in what is happening. Characteristically, they are direct
with their comments and mince no words. They are at their best in situations that require an
orientation to the present and a direct, no-nonsense, pragmatic approach.

Good at on-the-spot problem solving. Like action, enjoy whatever comes along. Tend to like
mechanical things and sports, with friends on the side. Adaptable, tolerant, pragmatic; focused on

getting results. Dislike long explanations. Are best with real things that can be worked, handled,
taken apart, or put together.
MAKING THE MOST OF THE MOMENT: ESTPs prefer to scan the external world of
people, things, and action (Extraversion). They perceive the world in a hands-on, grounded
fashion (Sensing), which they use as the basis for objective and impersonal cause-and-effect-based
decisions (Thinking). All of this is constantly and immediately translated through a lifestyle that is
spontaneous, flexible, and responsive to whatever happens (Perceiving). As a result of being so
grounded and so Extraverted, ESTPs tend to be up-front and out there about life, capitalizing
on each momentbecause thats all one can be sure of. You only go around once in life, the
ESTP believes, and it is incumbent on each individual to make the most of it.
The ESTP is a somewhat risk-taking, entrepreneurial, give-it-a-go person, a type with a real
flair for most things. The ESTP has a fly-by-the-seat-of-the-pants attitude and is pleased to have
everyone know about it. With a basic built-in restlessness, these are the hyperactive doers, who
like to keep their hands in a variety of pots, churning as much as they can to keep everyone on
their toes and to keep life exciting.
LOWEN on data capacity: ESTPs see features. ESTPs prefer Thinking data and probably
prefer the sense of sight. Thinking data is best described as inanimate (even people are
translated into roles), and the eye is the best tool for understanding the inanimate world, taking it
apart and looking at its inner workings. Features are the essential clues, or the bare outlines,
that you need to identify what it is you are seeing. Another way of saying that ESTPs look for
features is to say they look for the irregularities in a picture. They tend to see what doesnt fit,
whats important, like a boy hiding behind a tree, a hole in the road up ahead, or a tiny tumor in a
mass of blood vessels. Because ESTPs know what needs to be done so quickly, they are anxious
to get on with it.
LOWEN on processor capacity: ESTPs sign the features. ESTPs are best at reading the
signs of the physical world, at figuring out how to handle things, and move them around until
they work. The data for ESTPs is features so they begin with a brief sketch, an outline of what
needs to be done. Then they go to work assembling, repairing, manipulating things to make them
work, using their uncanny ability to read the signs in a thing. ESTPs are naturally attracted to
careers where they can operate tools and machinery, and move things around with their hands.
But even when they go into more abstract or people-oriented fields, they deal with things very
concretely, reading the signs in peoples facial expressions, for example, or feeling that as they
move data around a computer screen, they are really physically moving something around.
What ESTPs are really asking when they ask questions: Show me the essential features.
CAREERS that are attractive to the ESTP operator: Auditor, carpenter, craft worker, farmer,
laborer, law enforcement officer and detective, machinist, manager and administrator, marketeer
and marketing personnel, retail sales person, sales representative, service worker, surgeon,
transportation operative, and other occupations that allow ESTPs to use their action-oriented
sense of expediency.
IN A NUTSHELL: Activity oriented. Adaptable. Fun loving. Versatile. Energetic. Alert.
Spontaneous. Pragmatic. Easygoing. Persuasive. Outgoing. Quick.
REALISTIC ADAPTER in the world of material things; good natured, tolerant, easy going;
oriented to practical, first hand experience, highly observant of details of things.

What most drives ESTPs: EXCITEMENT

What most drives them wild: BOREDOM
TYPE PATTERNS IN DEVELOPED ADULT ESTPs: Energetic seekers of experiences, get
caught in the moment, keep communication brief, decide by talking, outgoing, meet deadlines just
in time, seen as forceful and excitable.
See Keirsey: http://keirsey.com/personality/spet.html

ESFP
Most generous. You only go around once in life
5.7% Total in U.S. population
5.4% White
7.3% Afr. Amer.
5.6% Hispanic
4.0% Male
7.2% Female
Dominant Extraverted Sensing with Auxiliary Introverted Feeling
The Dominant function is the perceptive one of Sensing. Characteristics associated with this
function include looking at information in terms of facts and details; focusing more on the here
and now rather than possibilities for the future; feeling comfortable in areas of proven experience;
and taking a realistic approach.
The perceptive Sensing function is extroverted and used to govern the outer world of actions and
spoken words. The ESFP will

seek to experience and enjoy the world as it is;

be very responsive to current events, with life tending to be a succession of events;

be pragmatic in nature, constantly seeking to change the world to the way the ESFP wants it
to be;

observe in an objective way, valuing facts without necessarily putting an interpretation upon
them.
The introverted Feeling judgment is used primarily to manage the inner world of thoughts and
emotions. This will modify the way the Sensing is directed by

focusing the (outer world) Sensing on relationships and facts concerning people;
tending to enjoy action and events for the company of others rather than the events
themselves;

leading to enjoyment of interaction with people.

ESFPs, in general, are friendly, outgoing, fun loving, and naturally drawn to people. They are
quite enthusiastic and exuberant, and are usually well liked by others. They are good at meeting
people and helping them enjoy themselves. They are sympathetic toward people and generous
with their time and money. They want to be where the action is, and they will often stir things up
in their own special way. At their best, they are able to realistically meet human and situational
needs in a fun and lively way.

Outgoing, accepting, friendly, enjoy everything and make things more fun for others by their
enjoyment. Like action and making things happen. Know whats going on and join in eagerly. Find
remembering facts easier than mastering theories. Are best in situations that need sound common
sense and practical ability with people.
LETS MAKE WORK FUN: Each of ESFPs preferences spell fun. These people are outgoing,
socially gregarious, and interactive (Extraversion) and prefer to perceive the world very
realistically, tangibly, and in the here and now (Sensing). These perceptions are all decided upon
very subjectively, based upon the interpersonal impact each decision will have on others (Feeling).
All of which is translated through a flexible, spontaneous, easygoing lifestyle (Perceiving).
Such a combination makes for a quick and ready wit, sometimes rather pointed and direct,
but always out there for all to see, hear, and experience. Failure to understand this upbeat repartee
can lead other types to misunderstand the ESFP and perceive them as either very superficial or
coquettish or both.
ESFPs love a surprise and are a surprise. Effervescent and exciting, free-spirited and funloving, nervy and nonconforming, ESFPs bring a breath of fresh air to any situation.
Unfortunately their free spirit can also be a source of frustration to others and even themselves.
Like most Perceiving types, for whom turning work into fun is an ongoing challenge, the ESFP is
the embodiment of fun. Thats what life is all about. So much a part of the ESFP is this fun
dynamic that when something unpleasant cannot be converted to fun, or cannot be avoided
completely, then it is time to simply drop the subject and move on to something different. For an
ESFP, if you cant enjoy the fun, then you should at least enjoy the bliss of ignorance.
LOWEN on data capacity: ESFPs hear matches. ESFPs prefer Feeling data, and probably
prefer the sense of hearing. Feeling data is best described as animate, most often people, and
people make sounds. Human thought and feelings tend to be invisible to the eye and must be
verbalized. When we use the words human contact, we dont mean touching each other as much
as we mean speaking and listening to each other. ESFPs are best at gathering data that is called
matches. A match is something that is similar to something else. Because ESFPs take in
matches, they resonate with the emotional and physical climate around them. If it is a sunny day,
they feel happy. If they share a house with a neurotic, they feel crazy. If someone describes an idea
to them with great excitement, they get excited about that idea.
LOWEN on processor capacity: ESFPs signal the matches. ESFPs are best at sending off
the signals that acknowledge and reassure. To put it simply, they react to people quickly and
with affirmation. Depending upon what people need, they may react with laughter, sympathy,
humor, help, suggestions, sharing, action, direction, whatever. But their response is fast and
positive, which is what people like, and which is why ESFPs are welcome in just about any
setting. Their reactions are generally not complex, although they tumble forth one after the other.
ESFPs do not attempt to find the logic behind peoples behavior, or link the personal into the
general. Signal is a simple, singular reaction, a few quick words, an excited look, a laugh or a
joke. But if the reaction is so fast, why is it also so appropriate? Because ESFPs base their
reactions on their ability to empathize with people, to match their own feelings with those of
others. That is the data that triggers the quick and positive response. Some of the occupations that
depend heavily upon quick, positive reactions to people and good timing are entertaining, selling,
promoting, group leadership, or helping people in crisis.
What ESFPs are really asking when they ask questions: Tell me how this matches something Ive
experienced.

CAREERS that are attractive to the ESFP initiator: Childcare worker, clerical supervisor, coach,
designer, entrepreneur, factory supervisor, food service worker, opportunist, receptionist,
recreation worker, religious educator, respiratory therapist, sales person, teacher (preschool and
coaching), and other occupations that allow ESFPs to be responsive to others.
IN A NUTSHELL: Enthusiastic. Adaptable. Playful. Friendly. Vivacious. Sociable. Talkative.
Cooperative. Easygoing. Tolerant. Outgoing. Pleasant.
REALISTIC ADAPTER in human relationships; friendly and easy with people, highly observant
of their feelings and needs; oriented to practical, first-hand experience.
What most drives ESFPs: FUN
What most drives them wild: RESTRICTIONS
TYPE PATTERNS IN DEVELOPED ADULT ESFPs: Enjoy amusement and physical play,
active, resourceful when dealing with people, focus on the immediate, find the easy way to do
hard things, low need for closure, like to solve conflict as a go-between, curious about social
interactions, like nature, usually can give the facts of a situation.
See Keirsey: http://keirsey.com/personality/spef.html

The SJ Temperament
46.7 percent of US population
ISTJISFJESTJESFJ
IF YOU ARE AN SJ: Organizing and Belonging As with the SP, the S means that you like to use
your Senses of seeing, hearing, feeling, tasting, and smelling to take in facts and information. But
the J makes you a very different person from the SP in the ways you deal with the world around
you. The J means that you tend to use a Judging or decision-making process; that is, you like to
come to closure and are uncomfortable when situations are open-ended and vague. This
combination of characteristics makes you an SJ who works hard, doesnt mind following rules,
wants to fit in, and pretty much does what others expect of you.
SJs information-gathering process is practical and realistic (Sensing), to which they prefer to give
organization and structure (Judging). SJs yearn to belong to meaningful institutions and, as such,
are the bill payers of life. They are the foundations and backbone of societyAmerica,
Motherhood, and a Hot Lunch for Orphans. They are trustworthy, loyal, helpful, brave, clean, and
reverent. They are stabilizing traditionalists who represent the largest single Temperament group.
As Judgers, their tendency is to organizepeople, furniture, schedules, organizations, and on and
on. Just as people are integral to the NF, and conceptualization integral to the NT, SJs lives
revolve around procedure. They have a procedure for everything, from making breakfast to
making love.
SJs strengths (which, when maximized, become liabilities) include

administration;

dependability;

the ability to take charge;

always knowing whos in charge.

Management: SJ managers make phenomenal administrators of systems that require precision

and organization. They have a tendency to do what needs to be done today, often to the neglect of
what must be done tomorrow.
Mating: SJ mates: Home and hearth are cornerstones of their relationships. Their relationship
roles are clearly defined and must not vary. Rituals and traditions are a stabilizing factor, but the
rigidity with which they are carried out may become tedious.
Parenting: SJ parents make clear who is the parent and who is the childand what is expected
of each. Though sometimes overly rigid, they provide the structure and boundaries many children
need. Such definition, though, can be confining, especially to a child of a different type.
Teaching: SJ teachers: Punctuality and neatness can at times be as important as content, whether
the subject at hand is an assignment, a students appearance, or the condition of someones locker.
Learning: SJ students respond well to teachers who are organized and deliver what they promise.
Their rigidity may make them less than open to learning new things.
Money: SJs are the money (and moneyed) people of the worldthe bankers, accountants,
lawyers, and stockbrokerswho conservatively guard societys trust funds.
The SJ must belong, and this belonging has to be earned. Here is no freeloader, urging his
dependency upon the donor as if it were his God-given right. Dependency, for the SJ, is neither a
legitimate condition nor desire. The SJ feels guilty for his dependency as if derelict in his duty and
negligent of his obligations. Moreover, he must be the giver, not the receiver; the caretaker, not
the cared for.
This is almost a parental attitude in the SJ, and it makes its appearance early in life. If we
watch a newly convened kindergarten class, we can easily observe about a dozen five-year-olds
earnestly and tensely seeking out the cues which tell them what they are sposed to do. The rest
of the children (mostly SPs with a smattering of NFs and NTs) are more like puppies, tusseling,
sniffing, and chewing the happy hours away. School is made for SJs and largely run by SJs and
kept mainly to transform these frolicking puppies into serious, duty-oriented little parents who
seek only to know what they are supposed to do.
The SP is compelled to be free and independent, while the SJ is, in effect, compelled to be
bound and obligated. These might usefully be viewed as reciprocal needs. Aesops The Ant and
the Grasshopper gives us a splendid analogy for viewing the reciprocal relationship of SJ to SP.
In the fable, the Ant is industriously and dutifully transporting large crumbs of bread from site to
storage while the Grasshopper reclines on a blade of grass near Ants path, playing the fiddle,
chewing tobacco, and singing The World Owes Me a Living. Ant, without losing stride in his
burdensome work, scolds Grasshopper for not preparing for the upcoming winter months. Join
me, urges the Ant, and we will together fill the storehouse, thus ensuring that none will suffer
cold or hunger. Grasshopper replies, And if you keep up this feverish pace, you wont make it
to winter, succumbing to ulcer, high blood pressure, or colitis. Join me on my blade of grass, and
we will enjoy together the warm summer, the food that abounds, and celebrate the worlds debt to
us in song. Each, of course, ignores the others request and goes his own merry or tedious way.
When it turns out to be a long, cold, hungry winter, Grasshopper must knock at Ants door and
stand there frostbitten and starving; Ant, snug in his storehouse of goodies, can only let
Grasshopper in. And so it is with SJs and SPsthey marry each other with high frequency and
play out this eternal drama.

One further note concerning the SJ pessimism: Murphys Law states that whatever can go
wrong will or that everything takes longer and costs more. Only an SJ could make up such a
law.
The SJs desire to be useful often comes in the guise of membership hunger. Here the SJ
appears to have a larger appetite than others. To belong to social units is central to his style. The
SJ recognizes by his actions the social nature of man. He, far more than others, creates and fosters
the continuity of social units: the family, the church, the service club, the municipality, and the
corporation. The social unit can become for the SJ an end in itself, just as action is its own end for
the SP. The SP, on the other hand, may join the social unit, but he requires and expects that unit to
serve and fulfill his needs in return for his membership.
Tradition becomes more and more important as the SJ gets older. Look for the SJ member of
the family, club, church, or company to observe traditions. The SJ has a keen sense for detecting
ingratitude and lack of appreciation, dealing as he does in giving, service, and care. Strangely
though, he cannot ask for gratitude or appreciation because it is his duty to give, serve, and care
for. He feels obligated, responsible, and burdened, and wants to feel that way. To feel otherwise is
to be useless and not belong.
There is no mystery surrounding the SJs choice of work. The institutions call him and he
comes to them to establish them, nurture them, and maintain their continuity and perpetuity.
Teaching, preaching, accounting, banking, clerking, medicating, rehabilitating, securing, insuring,
managing, selling (providing)note in all of these a single strand of desire: to conserve. The SJ is
the conservator no matter where he goes or who hes with or what he does. He saves, one way or
another, sooner or later. His complement, the SP, spends, one way or another, sooner or later. The
SJ is the foundation, cornerstone, flywheel, and stabilizer of society, and we might well rejoice at
his presence.
KEIRSEY on SJs: Myers had SJs, like SPs, observing their close surroundings with a keen eye,
but for an entirely different reason, namely that of scheduling their own and others activities so
that needs are met and conduct is kept within bounds. Thus for SJs, everything should be in its
proper place, everybody should be doing what theyre supposed to, everybody should be getting
their just deserts, every action should be closely supervised, all products thoroughly inspected, all
legitimate needs promptly met, all approved ventures carefully insured. Though SJs might differ in
being tough-minded (T) or friendly (F) in observing their schedules, and though they can be
expressive (E) or reserved (I) in social attitude, all of them demand that ways and means of
getting things done are proper and acceptable.
And so Myers described the SJs as conservative and stableas consistent and
routinizedas sensible, factual, and unimpulsiveas patient, dependable, and hardworkingas detailed, painstaking, persevering, and thorough. This too is a clear-cut
pattern of action and attitude, highly unlike that of the SPs, NFs, and NTs.
Brief sketches of the four MBTI types belonging to the SJ Temperament:

ISTJ
Most responsible. Doing what should be done
15.6% Total in U.S. population
14.7% White

22.0% Afr. Amer.

14.8% Hispanic
19.4% Male
12.3% Female
Dominant Introverted Sensing with Auxiliary Extraverted Thinking
The Dominant function is the perceptive one of Sensing. Characteristics associated with this
function include looking at information in terms of facts and details; focusing more on the here
and now rather than possibilities for the future; feeling comfortable in areas of proven experience;
and taking a realistic approach.
The perceptive Sensing function is introverted and used to govern the inner world of thoughts and
emotions The ISTJ will

seek to develop a realistic understanding of the world as it is, in the light of what he observes;

be pragmatic in nature, constantly learning to adapt to the world as it is now;

observe in a subjective way, selecting and relating facts that others would not, and seeing
these facts more in terms of impressions and significance than pure fact.
The Thinking judgment is extraverted and used primarily to manage the outer world of actions
and spoken words. This will modify the way the Sensing is directed by

focusing the (inner world) Sensing on impersonal facts and logical options;

tending to spot flaws and injustices;

making decisions on the basis of logical analysis that support the ISTJs understanding of the
world.
ISTJs, in general, are systematic, painstaking, thorough, and hardworking. They get the job done
and complete it on schedule. They are serious and sincere in whatever they do. They work well
within a structure, follow the hierarchy, and are particularly strong and careful in keeping track of
facts and details. They are cautious, generally seeking to maintain the status quo. They are at their
best getting things to the right place at the right time. They honor their commitments.

Serious, quiet, earn success by concentration and thoroughness. Practical, orderly, matter-offact, logical, realistic, and dependable. See to it that everything is well organized. Take
responsibility. Make up their own minds as to what should be accomplished and work toward it
steadily, regardless of protests or distractions.
LIFES NATURAL ORGANIZERS: ISTJs see the world in terms of facts and tangible realities
(Sensing), which they prefer to deal with in an objective fashion (Thinking). Their day-to-day
living is driven by structure, schedule, and order (Judging), and their Introversion makes them
appear somewhat cool and aloof. Appearances can be deceiving, however, because ISTJs often
excel when it comes to achievement, accomplishment, and social skills.
This is the quintessential dependable, responsible typehence the quintessential manager.
Just like the work world itself, ISTJs are driven by accountability, productivity, and the bottom
line. It is a natural and often happy fit. ISTJ is a no-frills, work-hard, play-hard type. They are
seen as compulsive, hard-charging, capable, and true to their word. They live by the bottom line
and can be very cost-conscious. They can be slow to change, but once they see the practical value

in making a course correction, they can be quick to implement it and often become zealots of the
new way of thinking.
LOWEN on data capacity: ISTJs see sortings. ISTJs prefer Thinking data and probably
prefer the sense of sight. Thinking data is best described as inanimate (even people are
translated into roles), and the eye is the best tool for understanding the inanimate world, taking it
apart and looking at its inner workings. ISTJs are best at gathering the data called sortings.
Sortings are things that can ordered according to some objective, contrasting criterion like size,
amount, weight, color, function, etc. But most often, ISTJs look for things that can be sorted
numerically. Lowen says they have a good quantitative feel for whats happening.
LOWEN on processor capacity: ISTJs make routines out of sortings. Routines are
systems that lay out the order that things will be done in. The data for ISTJs is sortings, so they
begin by arranging things into clear categories. Then they make the action around those sortings
into a clear routine that can produce the same efficient results again and again. For every system
that gives a predictable response, you can bet that an ISTJ had a hand in designing it. From the
bus that runs on time, to the brand name that always produces predictable quality, the ISTJs keep
the world running smoothly.
What ISTJs are really asking when they ask questions: Show me how this can be sorted.
CAREERS that are attractive to the ISTJ organizer: Accountant, administrator and manager
(school, industry, medical), auditor, craftsman, dentist, draftsman, electrician, first-line supervisor,
math teacher, mechanical engineer, military, office clerk, police and detective, police supervisor,
programmer, secretary, steelworker, stock clerk, technician, and other occupations that allow for
a thorough handling of facts.
IN A NUTSHELL: Factual. Thorough. Systematic. Dependable. Steadfast. Practical. Organized.
Realistic. Duty bound. Sensible. Painstaking. Reliable.
Analytical MANAGER OF FACTS AND DETAILS; dependable, decisive, painstaking and
systematic; concerned with systems and organization; stable and conservative.
What most drives ISTJs: STABILITY
What most drives them wild: IRRESPONSIBILITY
TYPE PATTERNS IN DEVELOPED ADULT ISTJs: Pragmatic, detail oriented, consistent, rely
on past experiences, concise, focused, serious, orderly, methodological, practical, decisive,
reserved, predictable, organized, realistic, takes time to get to know them, trust facts, want and
make structure, conscientious, calm, make time to be alone, hard to dissuade once mind is made
up, responsible, energized by data.
See Keirsey: http://keirsey.com/personality/sjit.html

ISFJ
Most loyal. A high sense of duty
11.5% Total in U.S. population
12.0% White
7.3% Afr. Amer.
13.0% Hispanic
6.3% Male
16.2% Female

Dominant Introverted Sensing with Auxiliary Extraverted Feeling

The Dominant function is the perceptive one of Sensing. Characteristics associated with this
function include looking at information in terms of facts and details; focusing more on the here
and now rather than possibilities for the future; feeling comfortable in areas of proven experience;
and taking a realistic approach.
The perceptive Sensing function is introverted and used to govern the inner world of thoughts and
emotions. The ISFJ will

seek to develop a realistic understanding of the world as it is, in the light of what he/she
observes;
be pragmatic in nature, constantly learning to adapt to the world as it is now;

observe in a subjective way, selecting and relating facts that others would not, and seeing
those facts more in terms of impressions and significance than pure fact.
The Feeling judgment is extraverted and used primarily to manage the outer world of actions and
spoken words. This will modify the way the Sensing is directed by

focusing the (inner world) Sensing on ideas and possibilities that relate to people;
expressing appreciation for the contributions of others, particularly where they have done or
said something that the ISFJ sees as significant;
making decisions on the basis of values that support the ISFJs understanding of the world;

reinforcing the subjectivity of observation.

ISFJs, in general, are sympathetic, loyal, considerate, and conscientious. They will go to any
amount of trouble, when it makes sense to them, to help those in need. ISFJs operate most
comfortably in situations where the rules are well defined and where traditions are to be upheld.
They focus on providing practical help and services for others and for the organizations they
serve. They are often self-effacing in getting the job done, and they are willing to make necessary
sacrifices, especially for their families. They are at their best quietly providing assistance and
making sure things are in proper order.

Quiet, friendly, responsible, and conscientious. Work devotedly to meet their obligations.
Lend stability to any project or group. Thorough, painstaking, and accurate. Their interests are
usually not technical. Can be patient with necessary details. Loyal, considerate, perceptive,
concerned with how other people feel.
COMMITTED TO GETTING THE JOB DONE: Cautious, reserved, quiet, and inwardly
oriented (Introversion), ISFJs are content to work quietly by themselves. Their perceptions of the
world are realistic, grounded, and present-oriented (Sensing), and they use those facts and
realities to make decisions that are interpersonally driven (Feeling). They prefer to live their daily
lives in a structured, ordered, accountable manner (Judging).
Bound by fierce commitment, intense responsibility, and deep loyalty, the ISFJ is the
embodiment of putting service above self in most aspects of their lives. Unless youve experienced
this type, its hard to believe that someone can be so dedicated and dutiful in so many aspects of
his or her life. It is amazing how nobly they work behind the scenes, allowing many great things to
happen and glory to be afforded to others. This is a direct result of the ISFJs stringent personal
sacrifice and their dependability.

ISFJs can become so wrapped up in serving others that they are soon taken for granted. It is such
a noble pattern that many other types perceive them in disbelief, assuming there must be a catch
somewhere. Or at least the ISFJ is keeping score and will, some day or another, cash in his or her
chips. But thats not the case. The ISFJs mission and desire is to serve, and one of their great
treats is to see someone they have helped succeed as a result of their benevolence.
LOWEN on data capacity: ISFJs hear contrasts. ISFJs prefer Feeling data, and probably
prefer the sense of hearing. Feeling data is best described as animate, most often people, and
people make sounds. Human thought and feelings tend to be invisible to the eye and must be
verbalized. When we use the words human contact, we dont mean touching each other as much
as we mean speaking and listening to each other. ISFJs are best at gathering the data called
contrasts. Contrasts are things that can be understood as clearly opposite, like right and
wrong, do and dont, good and bad. Contrasts are things you feel sure of. When ISFJs classify
something as good or bad, it is likely to stay there. ISFJs need to have clarity from the people
around them. They can be the most easy-going people in the world if they know what to expect,
but they have difficulty with information that falls in fuzzy intervals. If information does not come
to them clearly contrasted, they will try to reduce it to simpler terms. ISFJs are the only ones who
see the obvious. When your needs are clear, and it is clear what could be done to help you, most
people, for some reason, dont know what to do. When it is clearly right to offer a hand, most
people stand there and wonder if they should. But ISFJs always seem to be doing the obvious
thing that escapes the rest of us. They are quiet heroes to many people.
LOWEN on processor capacity: ISFJs control the contrasts. ISFJs are best at bringing
things under control, which means into a predictable state of repetition and success, where
surprises and changes are at a minimum. You reach a state of control by practicing the same
movements until your body does just what you tell it to, and you maintain that state by
introducing change in small increments. Another important element of control is that it comes
about when you are directly involved in the activity. ISFJs try to be physically involved in all the
aspects of their work. They dont like to get information second-hand, or rely on others to do it
the right way. They like the certainty they get from doing all the parts of a job, or knowing exactly
what the other people involved are doing. ISFJs excel naturally in careers where the rules are
clear, the authority is clear, or the cause is clearly right (their data are contrasts), there is direct
physical involvement in most of the work, and there is much repetition. Middle managers,
bankers, general practitioners, nurses, teacher, librarians, secretaries, athletes, and musicians are
some examples, but nearly every workplace revolves around one person who can bring things
under control, so ISFJs can be found just about anywhere.
What ISFJs are really asking when they ask questions: Tell me how this can be clearly contrasted
with something else.
CAREERS that are attractive to the ISFJ follower: Bookkeeper, clerical supervisor, curator,
family practice physician, health service worker and technician, librarian, medical technologist,
musician, nurse, teacher (preschool, elementary, and speech pathology), typist, and other
occupations that allow ISFJs to provide practical and helpful service to others.
IN A NUTSHELL: Detailed. Traditional. Patient. Organized. Devoted. Responsible.
Conscientious. Loyal. Practical. Service minded. Meticulous. Protective.
Analytical MANAGER OF FACTS AND DETAILS; concerned with peoples welfare;
dependable, painstaking, and systematic; stable and conservative.

What most drives ISFJs: RESPONSIBILITY

What most drives them wild: VAGUENESS
TYPE PATTERNS IN DEVELOPED ADULT ISFJs: Organized, succinct communicators, want
thorough understanding of facts before acting, service oriented, enjoy helping others, careful,
reliable, realistic, concise.
See Keirsey: http://keirsey.com/personality/sjif.html

ESTJ
Most hard charging. Lifes administrators
9.9% Total in U.S. population
9.2% White
14.1% Afr. Amer.
11.1% Hispanic
12.9% Male
7.3% Female
Dominant Extraverted Thinking with Auxiliary Introverted Sensing
The Dominant function is the judging one of Thinking. Characteristics associated with this
function include making decisions on the basis of logic, using objective considerations; being
concerned with truth, principles, and justice; being analytical and critical, tending to see the flaws
in situations; and taking an objective approach.
The judging Thinking function in extraverted and used primarily to govern the outer world of
actions and spoken words. The ESTJ will therefore

organize life on a logical basis, classifying, ordering, and directing facts and situations;

be decisive, with the aim of being just and fair;

spontaneously criticize;

be comfortable with conflict as a way of resolving problems;

take an impersonal approach, focusing more on systems and organizational needs than each
individuals feelings.
The Thinking function is primarily supported by introverted Sensing perception. That is, Sensing
perception is used primarily to manage the inner world of thoughts and emotions. This will modify
the way that the Thinking is directed by

focusing the (outer world) Thinking on practical decisions that lead to tried and trusted ways
of organizing or solving problems;

focusing decisions on immediate considerationse.g.: short term costs and benefits, and the
next step.
ESTJs, in general, are doers who roll up their sleeves, dig in, and proceed directly to get the job
done. They use logic and analysis as guiding principles for their lives. They are quick to decide
and set a plan of action. They marshal resources in an organized fashion, implement, and follow
through. They like closure. They focus directly on tasks to accomplish and are able to anticipate
the steps needed to complete an assignment. In doing so, they see what might go wrong and take

the necessary preventive action. They monitor events continually and make sure that
commitments, both their own and those of others, are honored and the job gets done. They are at
their best in situations that have some structure to them and involve activity, not contemplation,
and in which an end product is desired.
Practical, realistic, matter-of-fact, with a natural head for business or mechanics. Not
interested in abstract theories; want learning to have direct and immediate application. Like to
organize and run activities. Often make good administrators; are decisive, quickly move to
implement decisions; take care of routine details.
LIFES NATURAL ADMINISTRATORS: Outgoing, gregarious, usually quite direct, and very
upbeat to be around (Extraversion), ESTJs see the world in terms of hands-on, practical, realistic
situations (Sensing). Those perceptions are translated into objective, nonpersonal, analytical
decisions (Thinking) and freely imposed upon anyone within earshot (Judging)always for
someone elses good, of course.
This combination of preferences gives ESTJs a propensity for seeing a situation as it is and
moving themselves and others to develop a series of procedures, rituals, or regulations that will
not only take care of the situation at hand but will also provide a framework for any future similar
situations. It is this special combination of hands-on perception and analytical judgment, focused
outward and set in a lifestyle of structure, schedule, and order, that makes ESTJs the
administrators of the world. If you want a job done, a regulation established, a system
implemented, or an ongoing program evaluated, call on an ESTJ to manage it.
If anything gets them into trouble, it tends to be their EJ attitude toward life, a type given to
freely expressed opinions. They can be surprised when others see things differently, and that can
lead to some hearty, even abrasive, arguments. From the ESTJs perspective, its an open-and-shut
case. Having packaged the argument so neatly and precisely, how could anyone possible disagree?
Indeed, from an ESTJs perspective, most intelligent people would want to get on board and
take advantage of the ESTJs homework.
Because ESTJs are a take-charge type with very high control needs and because of their
severe sense of accountability, they do not cope well when things do not go as planned. They have
no tolerance for disorganization, tardiness, sloppiness, or inappropriate behavior (as defined by
the ESTJ). All are invitations for a barrage of criticism. ESTJs have a short fuse when anything
suggests they are losing control. The ESTJ can become loud, rigid, domineering, and can induce a
great deal of stress within anyone nearby. (As a rule ESTJs are ulcer givers, not ulcer getters.)
Not that this is malevolent. Indeed it is intended to further what seems to be a self-ordained
mission to keep the world running and to keep people doing what they should be doing.
The ESTJs chain of command mentality may produce behavior that on the surface seems
inconsistent with ESTJs everyday style. Hard-charging, take-charge, high-ranking ESTJs can
appear almost milquetoast at home or in social gatherings. Once the ESTJ decrees that the home
is the spouses turf (or the party is the hosts turf), that spouse (or host) is in charge. According to
the chain of command, the spouse (host) should give the orders, and the ESTJ will follow quite
obediently. Hours later, back at work, it is once again time to turn the tables and take over. What
is important to realize is that neither of these seemingly contradictory behaviors is inconsistent
with being an ESTJ.
LOWEN on data capacity: ESTJs touch for routines. ESTJs preferred method of gathering
data is through the sense of touch. A Sensing kind of data is best described as concrete, and the
concrete world must be experienced by contact with the body. Routines are tried-and-true

sequences for how to produce a product or effect. If you build a building, manufacture a product,
or put on an event, you depend heavily upon codes, laws, standard procedure, handbooks,
guidelines, and formulas. These are all routine. ESTJs fill their heads with these things, so
whatever you need to do, ESTJs can quickly tell you the steps to take. They walk through life
with a sense of certainty that comes from knowing the sure way to get things done.
LOWEN on processor capacity: ESTJs sort the routines. We all sort simple things every
daythe mail, the laundry, the dishes, the days activities. ESTJs are capable of also doing
complicated sorting. For example, think how many materials, procedures, and people have to be
sorted through to build a bridge, engineer a new invention, or run a factory. The data for ESTJs is
routines, so they always begin with a sequenced, standard way of doing things. Sorting is to
put the precision, the when, where, and how much, onto the steps in a process. ESTJs often
describe themselves as being able to get the job done, and on time. Production lines, deadlines,
and bottom lines are the concerns of ESTJs. They are probably the most linear thinkers of all
the types. They are engineers, contractors, production managers, and in general, the implementors
of the world, the people who get things doneon time.
What ESTJs are really asking when they ask questions: Let me feel the routine of it.
CAREERS that are attractive to the ESTJ implementor: Contractor, engineer, experimental
scientist, government worker, insurance agent and underwriter, judge, lawyer, manager, military
personnel, nursing administrator, police officer, project manager, sales representative, school
administrator, supervisor, trade and technical teacher, and other occupations that allow ESTJs to
see tasks accomplished.
IN A NUTSHELL: Logical. Decisive. Systematic. Objective. Efficient. Direct. Practical.
Organized. Impersonal. Responsible. Structured. Conscientious.
Fact-minded, practical ORGANIZER; assertive, analytical, systematic; pushes to get things done
and working smoothly and efficiently.
What most drives ESTJs: EFFICIENCY
What most drives them wild: DISORDER
TYPE PATTERNS IN DEVELOPED ADULT ESTJs: Competitive, want completed jobs to be
done right, organized, direct, frank, sense of urgency, high energy, seek and make decisions,
reliable, outspoken, matter-of-fact orientation, develop pragmatic skills, results-oriented,
expressive of critical analysis.
See Keirsey: http://keirsey.com/personality/sjet.html

ESFJ
Most harmonizing. Hosts and hostesses of the world
9.6% Total in U.S. population
10.1% White
7.3% Afr. Amer.
13.0% Hispanic
4.7% Male
14.1% Female
Dominant Extraverted Feeling with Auxiliary Introverted Sensing

The Dominant function is the judging one of Feeling. Characteristics associated with this function
include making decisions on the basis of personal values; being appreciative and accepting of
peopleenjoying company and seeking harmony; assessing the impact of decisions on others,
being sympathetic or compassionate; and taking a personal approach.
The judging Feeling function is extraverted and used primarily to govern the outer world of
actions and spoken words. The ESFJ will therefore

seek stable, harmonious relationships;

tend to adapt to the environment, taking on board those values that are held as important by
friends and family, or society as a whole;

express the appreciation that is felt towards others;

tend to consider others feelings before his or her own;

be sensitive to praise and criticism, and seek to conform to others reasonable expectations.
The Feeling function is primarily supported by introverted Sensing perception, and used primarily
to manage the inner world of thoughts and emotions. This will modify the way that the Feeling is
directed by

focusing the (outer world) Feeling on current relationships and people, e.g.: through social
events and fact-based conversation;
finding practical ways to be of service to people;

viewing people subjectively, observing facts that support harmonious relationships.

ESFJs, in general, are helpful people who place a high value on harmony. Paying close attention to
peoples needs and wants, they work well with others to complete tasks in a timely and accurate
way. ESFJs follow through on their commitments. They like closure and prefer structured,
organized situations in which warmth and compassion are shown. They contribute to others by
anticipating their day-to-day concerns and handling them with warmth and efficiency. ESFJs are at
their best in organizing people to get a job done.

Warm-hearted, talkative, popular, conscientious, born cooperators, active committee

members. Need harmony and may be good at creating it. Always doing something nice for
someone. Work best with encouragement and praise. Main interest is in things that directly and
visibly affect peoples lives.
EVERYONES TRUSTED FRIEND: ESFJs are socially gregarious (Extravert), which is
manifested especially in the precious attention they pay to both organizational and personal details
(Sensing). All of this happens in an interpersonal style given to praise and other affirmations
(Feeling) against a backdrop of structure. schedule, and order (Judging). Graciousness describes
the general lifestyle of the ESFJ.
The ESFJs four preferences equip them to be gracious and effective in dealing with others.
They use their subjective Feeling decisions to bring harmony and goodwill to almost any situation
in which they find themselves, at the same time imposing order and structure on any situation
gently, yet firmly. They are exceptionally in tune with specific individual needs and especially
sensitive to the nuances that make for happy and wholesome lives.
LOWEN on data capacity: ESFJs touch for control. ESFJs preferred method of gathering
data is through the sense of touch. A Sensing kind of data is best described as concrete, and the

concrete world must be experienced by contact with the body. To understand controls just think
of the control box. With a certain input, you get a certain output. ESFJs want to do things, and
see others doing things, that experience has taught them will result in a desirable outcome. ISFPs
and ISTPs also take in data through the sense of touch, but the touching is free and playful and
for the sake of identifying something. The kind of touching that ESFJs and ESTJs do is different.
They want to touch, or act, with certainty, based on past experience, and toward a certain end.
LOWEN on processor capacity: ESFJs contrast the controls. ESFJ have a strong tendency
to classify things as either good or bad, right or wrong, what Lowen calls contrasting. This
ability to line things up into one of two categories, yes or no, makes it easy for ESFJs to make
decisions. And since the data that ESFJs take in is familiar actions (controls), they are best at
making decisions regarding action. This decisiveness about action means that they like to get
things taken care of right away. Being able to decide upon actions means that ESFJs are skillful at
directing the physical actions of others. The ability to make quick decisions about choices of
action makes ESFJs natural managers, politicians, coaches, orchestra leaders, hosts or hostesses,
counselors, military officers, teachers, and ministers.
What ESFJs are really asking when they ask questions: Let me feel in control of it.
CAREERS that are attractive to the ESFJ classifier: Administrator, anthropologist, athlete,
childcare worker, clergy, dental assistant, elementary school teacher, hair dresser and
cosmetologist,
home economist, medical secretary, nurse, office manager, radiological
technologist, receptionist and secretary, religious educator, speech pathologist, and other
occupations that allow ESFJs to help others and serve their values directly.
IN A NUTSHELL: Conscientious. Loyal. Sociable. Personable. Responsible. Harmonious.
Cooperative. Tactful. Thorough. Responsive. Sympathetic. Traditional.
Practical HARMONIZER and worker-with-people; sociable, orderly, opinioned; conscientious,
realistic, and well tuned to the here and now.
What most drives ESFJs: DUTY
What most drives them wild: AMBIGUITY
TYPE PATTERNS IN DEVELOPED ADULT ESFJs: Committed and dedicated to others,
respectful, nurturing, active listeners, enjoy a variety of people, organized, give attention to details
related to people, talkative, sympathetic, tactful, realistic, radiate sympathy, motivated by
appreciation, orderly in small matters, often seen as gregariouus.
See Keirsey: http://keirsey.com/personality/sjef.html

The NT Temperament
16.1 percent of US population
INTJINTPENTJENTP
IF YOU ARE AN NT: Understanding and Knowing. The N means that when you take in
information, you pay attention to iNtuitionyour gut level feelingrather than relying only on
facts and what is observable through your five senses. The T says you are a Thinker who reasons
and studies a situation before you make a decision. If you are an NT, this combination means you
tend to pride yourself on the way you thinklogically, rationally, and intelligentlyand you like
to learn for the sake of learning.

NTs gather data consisting largely of abstractions and possibilities (Intuition), which they filter
through their objective decision-making process (Thinking). Their driving force, in their neverending quest for competence, is to theorize and intellectualize everything. Driven to try to
understand the universe, they ask Why? (or Why not?) of everything: Why does this rule
exist? Why cant we do it differently? NTs are enthusiastic pursuers of adventures who, in their
enthusiasm, may take risks that unintentionally imperil people close to them.
NTs learn by challenging any authority or source. They have their own standards and
benchmarks for what is competent, against which they measure themselves and everybody else.
They are always testing the system. Relentless in their pursuit of excellence, they can be very
critical of their own and others shortcomings, and impatient when confronted with them. They
are frequently perceived by othersoften incorrectlyas aloof, intellectual snobs.
NTs strengths (which, when maximized, become liabilities) include

an ability to readily see the big picture;

a talent for conceptualization and systems planning;

insight into the internal logic and underlying principles of systems and organizations;

the ability to speak and write clearly and precisely.

Management: NT managers are the strategic planners and researchers, although they can get lost
in their strategies and overlook day-to-day business.

Mating: NT mates intellectualize feelings and emotions, and are more interested in theorizing a
relationship than nurturing and experiencing it.
Parenting: NT parents have high standards and desire to inspire independence in children; they
become role models who may seem impossible to live up to. They demand intellectual prowess of
their children and enthusiastically (sometimes over-enthusiastically) surround their children with
learning opportunities.
Teaching: NT teachers conceptual clarity and precision of language can be exciting to students,
although it can also be intimidating at times. They love it when students challenge them, allowing
both parties to learn from the engagement.
Learning: NT students learn by discussing, and are initially fun to have in any classroom, but
over the long haul can become tiresome as a consequence of working any given point to death.
Money: NTs money situation covers the waterfront; they tend to have well-designed financial
plans but can still lose their shirts because they like high-risk ventures.
Power fascinates the NT. Not power over people, but power over nature: to be able to
understand, control, predict, and explain realities. Note that these are the four aims of science:
control and understanding, prediction and explanation. Scratch an NT, find a scientist. These
forms of power, however, are but a means to an end, the end best expressed by the word
competence. So it is not exactly power that the NT wants but rather competencies, capabilities,
abilities, capacities, skills, ingenuityrepertoire.
The NT loves intelligence, which means: doing things well under varying circumstances. The
extreme NT can even be seen as addicted to acquiring intelligence, hooked on storing up wisdom.
Wanting to be competent is not a strong enough expression of the force behind the NTs quest.
He must be competent. There is urgency in his desire; he can be obsessed by it and feel a

compulsion to improve, as if caught in a force field. The NTs compulsion is similar in its tractor
base to the SPs compulsion to perform, though different in its object: The SP must act, but has no
interest in improving (though his performance becomes superb); the NT must improve, but has no
interest in action as such (though he does act, and with increasing precision and exactitude). In a
sense the SP is the NTs mirror image. For the SP, ability is mere means which sets him free to
perform, while for the NT, performance is only a means for enabling him to store up his beloved
abilities. (In passing, we might anticipate finding that neither the SJ nor the (as yet) mysterious NF
has more than meager concern and interest in performances and abilities. And we perhaps can
understand both NF and SJ temperaments better if we notice this relative disinterest. They would
seem to have other fish to fry and may well be puzzled by the militance shown by extreme SPs
and NTs; those militant about ability or performance are just as puzzled by others indifference.)
The NT is the most self-critical of all the styles. He badgers himself about his errors, taxes
himself with the resolve to improve, and ruthlessly monitors his own progress. He continually
checks the pulse of his skills and takes his conceptual temperature every hour on the hour. He
must master understanding of all objects and events whether human or extra-human, physical or
metaphysical, in whatever domain he stakes out as his area of competency. And the more extreme
the NT style, the more exacting and stringent the demand placed by the NT on himself in the
acquisition of skill and knowledge. The NT must be competent in whatever domain of enterprise
or inquiry he chooses; he will settle for nothing less.
In contrast to the shoulds and oughts of the SJ, the NT has many should knows and should
be-ables-tos itemized in massive lists inside his head. He is inclined always to accumulate more
items, never deleting any. He runs a kind of bureaucracy of excellence, and thus can be a
perfectionist, becoming tense and compulsive in his behavior when he comes under too much
stress. Constantly alert to his shortcomings, to his failures to reach perfect competency, he may
greet with scorn and amusement the criticism of others concerning his powers. He may or may
not express this reaction, although the Extraverts are more likely to do so, but the NT is very
conscious of the credentials of his critics and in what degree they license comment. Allied to this
demand for competency in critics is a recalcitrance on the part of the NTeven from an early age
to accept without question in the domain of ideas even a widely accepted authority. The fact
that a certain person proclaims something, whatever his or her title, reputation, or credentials,
leaves the NT indifferent. The pronouncement must stand on its own merits, tried in the court of
coherence, verification, and pragmatics. This recalcitrance to established authorities tends to make
an NT, particularly those with extreme temperament, seem unusually individualist and even
arrogant.
NTs often report (to those they trust) that they are haunted by a sense of always being on the
verge of failure. This time, surely, the necessary degree of competency will not be produced and
failure is at hand. This time acquired knowledge will be inadequate for this issue. Constant selfdoubting is the lot of the NT. Because of these doubts, the NT, particularly the NTP, may have
difficulty in taking action. He can be so immobilized by self-doubts that his resolution fades.
Somehow the NT never believes that he knows enough, or that he does what he does well
enough. And he adds to this discomfort by escalating his standards of performance. What may be
accepted by him as satisfactory today may tomorrow be judged only passable.
In his communications the NT is likely to speak with little or no redundancy. His
communications tend to be terse, compact, and logical. He has a deep reluctance to state the
obvious, restricting his verbal communications because, he believes, Of course, everyone knows

that . . . The NT is inclined to be precise in his choice of language and hopes that others will be
the same, though he soon learns that they will not.
Because the NT is so serious about the knowledge he must have to be competent (and to be
seen by others as competent), he does, in fact, frequently gain outstanding proficiency in his field.
The NT begins his search for explanations as soon as he has the language for questioning. He is
puzzled by the world around him and is not satisfied with non sequitur answers from his elders.
He wants the answers given to him to hang together and to make sense; he can be insistent in
his efforts to gain these data, to the extent of annoying others. Learning for the NT is a 24-hour
preoccupation, and this characteristic exerts itself early, particularly in the case of the extreme NT.
Because of the NTs passion for knowing, he can develop a large repertoire of competencies by
the time he finishes his formal education. His early start and his persistence enable the NT to excel
above the other styles in technology. And, as the intellectual ability of the NT increases, the
tendency to seek the sciences, mathematics, philosophy, architecture, engineeringindeed,
anything complicated and exactingalso increases. These occupations, therefore are heavily
populated by NTs.
Perhaps more than any other style, NTs live in their work. For the NT, work is work and play
is work. Condemning an NT to idleness would be the worst sort of punishment. NTs usually enjoy
developing models, exploring ideas, and building systems. They, understandably, are drawn to
occupations which have to do with the formation and application of scientific principles. Science,
technology, philosophy, mathematics and logic, design and engineering, research and
development, management, manufacture, criminology, cardiology, securities analysisall appeal
to NTs. Sales and customer relations work do not hold such attraction, nor do NTs tend to
gravitate toward services such as clerical work, repair, maintenance, entertainment, or
distribution. They can be found in high frequency in engineering and architecture, in the teaching
of mathematics, sciences, and philosophy. Wherever they are and whatever they do, the NTs strive
(and usually succeed) to perform competently.
KEIRSEY on NTs: Also on the introspective side, Myers had NTs as tough-minded in figuring
out what sort of technology might be useful to solve a given problem. To this end, NTs require
themselves to be persistently and consistently rational in their actions. Though they may differ in
their preference for judging schedules (J) or probing for options (P) as they tackle problems, and
though they can seem expressive (E) or reserved (I) around others, all NTs insist that they have a
rationale for everything they do, that whatever they do and say makes sense.
So Myers described the NTs as analytical and systematicas abstract, theoretical,
and intellectualas complex, competent and inventiveas efficient, exacting and
independentas logical and technicaland as curious, scientific, and researchoriented. Here again is a unique and easily recognizable configuration of character traits, the
NTs, a breed apart, starkly different from SPs, SJs, and NFs.
Brief sketches of the four MBTI types belonging to the NT Temperament:

INTJ
Most independent. Everything has room for improvement
3.5% Total in U.S. population
3.5% White
4.0% Afr. Amer.

1.9% Hispanic
4.8% Male
2.2% Female
Dominant Introverted Intuition with Auxiliary Extraverted Thinking
The Dominant function is the perceptive one of Intuition. Characteristics associated with this
function include looking at information from a global viewpoint, spotting patterns and
relationships that lead to an understanding of the key issues; focusing more on possibilities for the
future than the here-and-now; and enjoying change, challenge, and variety.
The perceptive Intuition function is introverted, and is used primarily to govern the inner world of
thoughts and emotions. The INTJ will therefore

seek to develop an understanding of how the world can be;

seek to understand the patterns underlying his or her observations;

be strategic in nature, wanting to establish a clear vision toward which the INTJ is working;

not involve others in the development of that vision.

The Intuition function is primarily supported by extraverted Thinking judgment, and used
primarily to manage the inner world of thoughts and emotions. This will modify the way that the
Intuition is directed by

focusing the (inner world) Intuition on ideas and possibilities that relate to systems and
concepts;
inwardly maintaining a long-term vision. Rather than communicating this vision directly, it
may tend to surface in the form of criticism of ideas and situations that do not conform;

applying logical analysis to perceived patterns and possibilities, enabling the INTJ to quickly
see the underlying principles in a situation.
INTJs, in general, are strong individualists who seek new angles or novel ways of looking at
things. They enjoy coming to new understandings. They are insightful and mentally quick;
however, this mental quickness may not always be outwardly apparent to others since they keep a
great deal to themselves. They are very determined people who trust their vision of the
possibilities, regardless of what others think. They may even be considered the most independent
of all the sixteen personality types. INTJs are at their best in quietly and firmly developing their
ideas, theories, and principles.

Have original minds and great drive for their own ideas and purposes. Have long-range vision
and quickly find meaningful patterns in external events. In fields that appeal to them, they have a
fine power to organize a job and carry it through. Skeptical, critical, independent, determined,
have high standards of competence and performance.
LIFES INDEPENDENT THINKERS: INTJs view the world in terms of endless possibilities
(Intuition), to be manipulated, conceptualized, systematized, and translated through objective
decisions (Thinking). These decisions are readily implemented because of their daily lifestyle of
structure, schedule, and order (Judging). Their Introversion is the arena for developing their many
ideas, which are usually many more than will ever be realized. However, the four preferences
combine to convey confidence, stability, competence, intellectual insight, and self-assurance.

These four preferences are things that most people naturally rely on for strength and
confidence, especially in the upper echelons of business. INTJs wont embarrass us by
Extraverting when we least expect it, but will instead convey confidence that everything is in good
hands. Rather than getting locked into details and specifics as a Sensor might, they translate the
facts to a bigger picture to provide perspective. While subjectivity may be comforting to most
people, it is objectivity that we associate with business. And our society operates and gives
rewards based on a J time- and goal-oriented model. The INTJ packages these four qualities in a
way that is not only generally appealing but is indeed relied upon for leadership and direction.
LOWEN on data capacity: INTJs see logic. They prefer Thinking data and probably prefer
the sense of sight. Thinking data is best described as inanimate (even people are translated into
roles), and the eye is the best tool for understanding the inanimate world, taking it apart and
looking at its inner workings. INTJs are attracted to models because they are visual
representations of the relationships between things. When relationships are defined by some
system of rules or theory, it is called logic, and INTJs are best at gathering the data called
logic.
LOWEN on processor capacity: INTJs structure the logic. The four dimensions of type are
an example of structure. You have four letters in your type, four components that can be looked at
individually to gather much information about you. But when the four letters are put together,
they form a single picture that is far more complicated and interesting than the four pieces were.
And the nature of each of the pieces changes. The character of Introversion changes as it is
combined with SFJ, STP, NFP, or NTJ. When the four letters are looked at together, in
relationship to each other, when they blur together and reemerge as a single picture of the
personality, then you have found the structure of that type, the gestalt, the whole that is greater
than its parts. To understand INTJs better, compare them with their opposites, the ESFPs.
Because the processing of ESFPs is the most simple, it happens most quickly. ESFPs are known
for the speed of their reactions. INTJs, on the other hand, do the most complex kind of
processing, so it takes the longest. This is a problem for ESFPs in dealing with abstract and
complex informationthey dont want to take the timeand a problem for INTJs in dealing with
people. You say something to them, and they are slow to react. People think they are holding back
a negative opinion, but the truth is, they are trying to process the information into a complex
structure that will show the relationship between all the parts, and that takes time. And saying that
ESFPs do the simplest kind of processing is not by any means saying that they are inferior to the
other types. Comparing signal to structure is like comparing the taste of a perfect ripe apple
just picked off the tree with a Thanksgiving supper that took days to cook, required 85
ingredients, and every utensil in the kitchen.
What INTJs are really asking when they ask questions: Show me the logical relationships.
CAREERS that are attractive to the INTJ conceptualizer: Architect, chemical engineer, computer
systems analyst, conceptual research, corporate planning, electrical engineer, judge, lawyer,
management of innovation, photographer, psychologist, research department manager, researcher,
scientist, systems design, university instructor, anything involving logical structure with visual
skill, and other occupations in which long-range vision is essential.
IN A NUTSHELL: Independent. Critical. Systems minded. Visionary. Demanding. Global.
Logical. Original. Firm. Theoretical. Private. Autonomous.
Logical, critical, decisive INNOVATOR of ideas; serious, intent, highly independent, concerned
with organization; determined and often stubborn.

What most drives INTJs: INTEGRITY

What most drives them wild: INTELLECTUAL DISHONESTY
TYPE PATTERNS IN DEVELOPED ADULT INTJs: Play out conversations in their heads, like
planned changes, like new challenges, reflective, independent, see the big picture, oriented to the
future, determined, purposeful, resourceful, ask why, hard-driving, relentless about precision, use
principles for decision making.
See Keirsey: http://keirsey.com/personality/ntij.html

INTP
Most conceptual. A love of problem-solving
5.2% Total in U.S. population
5.6% White
3.4% Afr. Amer.
3.7% Hispanic
6.5% Male
4.0% Female
Dominant Introverted Thinking with Auxiliary Extraverted Intuition
The Dominant function is the judging one of Thinking. Characteristics associated with this
function include making decisions on the basis of logic, using objective considerations; being
concerned with truth, principles, and justice; being analytical and critical, tending to see the flaws
in situations; and taking an objective approach.
The judging Thinking function is introverted, and used primarily to govern the inner world of
thoughts and emotions. The INTP will therefore

spend time thinking analytically, organizing thoughts on a logical basis;

develop an understanding of the principles involved in a situation;

spontaneously feel critical of a person or situation, but not necessarily express that criticism;

be inwardly decisive, but not communicate those decisions to others;

think mostly about impersonal issues, focusing more on concepts, truths, and systems rather
than individuals feelings.
The Thinking function is primarily supported by extraverted Intuitive perception, and is used
primarily to manage the outer world of actions and spoken words. This will modify the way that
the Thinking is directed by

focusing the (inner world) Thinking on understanding possibilities for the future;

perceiving patterns in information to support the logical analysis.

INTPs, in general, are known for their quest for logical purity, which motivates them to examine
universal truths and principles. They are constantly asking themselves and others the questions
Why? and Why not? Clear and quick thinkers, they are able to focus with great intensity on
their interests. They appreciate elegance and efficiency in thought processes and require them,
even more so, in their own communications. They may be seen as unwilling to accept what
everyone else regards as truth. While often low key in outward appearance and approach, the

INTP is hard as nails when challenging a truth. INTPs do not like to deal with the obvious.
They are at their best in building conceptual models and developing unusual and complex ideas.
Quiet and reserved. Especially enjoy theoretical or scientific pursuits. Like solving problems
with logic and analysis. Interested mainly in ideas, with little liking for parties or small talk. Tend
to have sharply defined interests. Need careers where some strong interest can be used and useful.
LIFES CONCEPTUALIZERS: The INTPs source of energy and favorite turf is inward,
reflective, contemplative thoughts (Introversion). Their perception of the world is conceptual,
abstract, and random, with endless possibilities (Intuition), which is used as the basis for objective,
impersonal decisions that weigh carefully the cause and effect (Thinking). All of this is translated
into a flexible, spontaneous, adaptable, easygoing lifestyle (Perceiving).
INTPs are free-spirited idea mills and absentminded professors, which makes them fun to be
around, easily diverted, and a plethora of unending creativity. Their love of the abstract is
sufficiently deep that it can lead them in the course of the working day through a maze of
inventive and challenging programs, policies, products, and processes.
The INTPs Intuitive-Perceiving nature frequently leads them astray in the pursuit of new
adventure, which can interfere with their need for time to be alone and to think. For the INTP its
hard to stay removed and reflective in ones internal world when the outer world is so full of ideas
and possibilities. The INTP is a very heady, conceptual type, whose ideas can be pure genius.
Sometimes these ideas get lost because INTPs tend to rework them continually and dont always
share their latest thinking.
Generally, before any INTPs seek to engage someone on a particular subject, they will likely
have done their homework. They do it for at least three reasons. First, they would not want to
appear incompetent. Second, homeworkresearch, reading, getting ones ducks in a rowis
something INTPs enjoy and do very well. Third, in such an engagement INTPs want to present an
impressive point of view that reflects intellectual prowess.
LOWEN on data capacity: INTPs intuit strategies. INTPs prefer to take in information
the data capacitythrough the sixth sense, that is, the sense that perceives the invisible
connections between things. The sixth sense, intuition, allows one to connect in imagination what
is learned from sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. INTPs are best at gathering the data called
strategies. A strategy is a plan for carrying out a complex task, but its not a straightforward
plan. A strategy usually involves surprising twists and turns, and like its symbol, it may even be
the longest distance between two points. A strategy is clever, its full of surprises. Of all the
types, INTPs are the most interested in strategic approaches to complicated problems. How do
people go about solving political problems, scientific problems, business problems, or even human
relations problems? INTPs are usually avid readers and good listeners, and what they are looking
for as they read and listen is the story of an enormously tangled knot and someones complicated
yet elegant strategy for unraveling it.
LOWEN on processor capacity: INTPs find patterns in strategies. When Carl Jung (an
INTP) quarreled with Sigmund Freud, he wondered what laws were governing their relationship.
He drew from psychiatric interviews, personal relationships, and an incredible amount and variety
of literature, to find a pattern in the basic differences that separate people. This is an example of
INTPs finding the patterns in strategies . . . of finding order, repetition, and laws underneath
the scribbled, tangled, and messy information that barrages us every day. This ability to see the
patterns in a windstorm of data means that INTPs can be among the finest diagnosticians in the
world. They are natural theoreticians. Pattern-finding skills match up with career fields like

architecture, philosophy, scientific research, editing, data analysis, psychology, and teaching
university students or adults. An INTP said, Scratch any INTP and youll find a teacher.
Teachers, after all, are charged with giving students the patterns that they can use to organize all
the information in the world.
What INTPs are really asking when they ask questions: Inspire me with a clever strategy.
CAREERS that are attractive to the INTP theoretician: Artist and entertainer, biologist, chemist,
computer programmer, computer systems analyst, intuition-driven research, lawyer, photographer,
psychologist, researcher, social scientist, surveyor, theoretical physics, writer, and other
occupations that allow INTPs to use their logical thinking in appropriate ways.
IN A NUTSHELL: Logical. Skeptical. Detached. Reserved. Speculative. Self-determined.
Precise. Original. Theoretical. Independent. Autonomous. Cognitive.
Inquisitive ANALYZER; reflective, independent, curious, more interested in organizing ideas than
situations or people.
What most drives INTPs: THEORETICAL PROBLEMS
What most drives them wild: AUTHORITARIAN BUREAUCRACY
TYPE PATTERNS IN DEVELOPED ADULT INTPs: Love problem solving, complexity, and
new ideas; analytical, build mental models, like to synthesize ideas, strive for objectivity, like
problem solving as exploration, avoid small talk, want specific and direct feedback, constant
gatherers of information, impersonal, tolerant, seen as critical.
See Keirsey: http://keirsey.com/personality/ntip.html

ENTJ
Most commanding. Lifes natural leaders
2.8% Total in U.S. population
2.3% White
3.4% Afr. Amer.
5.6% Hispanic
3.5% Male
2.1% Female
Dominant Extraverted Thinking with Auxiliary Introverted Intuition
The Dominant function is the judging one of Thinking. Characteristics associated with this
function include making decisions on the basis of logic, using objective considerations; being
concerned with truth, principles, and justice; being analytical and critical, tending to see the flaws
in situations; and taking an objective approach.
The judging Thinking function is extraverted, and is used primarily to govern the outer world of
actions and spoken words. The ENTJ will therefore

organize life on a logical basis, classifying, ordering, and directing facts and situations;

be decisive, with the aim of being just and fair;

spontaneously criticize;

be comfortable with conflict as a way of resolving problems;

take an impersonal approach, focusing more on systems and organizational needs than each
individuals feelings.
The Thinking function is primarily supported by introverted Intuitive perception, and is used
primarily to manage the inner world of thoughts and emotions. This will modify the way that the
Thinking is directed by

focusing the (outer world) Thinking on creative decisions that lead to change and new
possibilities;

orchestrating the outward organization in support of some overall purpose or strategy.

ENTJs, in general, take charge quickly and deal directly with problems, especially in situations
that involve confusion and inefficiency. They provide structure to the organizations to which they
belong and design strategies to accomplish their personal and organizational goals. They develop
broad, action-oriented plans, and supply the necessary energy and momentum to see that these
plans are accomplished. ENTJs are take charge people who organize their own and others
external environments. They do not take no for an answer; instead, they use their resources to
find a way to meet the challenge. They are at their best in using their analytical and strategic
thinking.

Frank, decisive, leaders in activities. Develop and implement comprehensive systems to solve
organizational problems. Good at anything that requires reasoning and intelligent talk, such as
public speaking. Are usually well-informed and enjoy adding to their fund of knowledge.
LIFES NATURAL LEADERS: ENTJs outer-directed, people-oriented energy (Extraversion)
gives them a basic social alertness. They prefer to translate that alertness into possibilities,
meanings, and connections (Intuition) as they deal with their perceptions of events. Those
perceptions are then dealt with objectively (Thinking), helping to create a vision, a strategy, or a
complex system that will move the organization toward its goal. Their need for closure, structure,
and accountability (Judging) makes sure that these visions, strategies, and systems are not left on
the drawing board or lost to some abstract inspiration. With ENTJs, they are more likely to
become finished products. As a result, its an onward-and-upward, over-and-over-again kind of
existence for all within the ENTJs sphere of influence.
The ENTJ has been called lifes natural leader, and thats not by accident. The special
combination of preferences gives this type the right mixture of basic leadership qualities:
enthusiasm, vision, objectivity, and accountability. So natural are these qualities that it is almost
difficult for an ENTJ not to step in and take charge. And they do it with such finesse that others
tend to appreciate it and begin to depend upon them in any variety of situations. More often than
not, the ENTJ is pleased to respond with facility and competence.
LOWEN on data capacity: ENTJs intuit structures. ENTJs prefer to take in information
the data capacitythrough the sixth sense, that is, the sense that perceives the invisible
connections between things. The sixth sense, intuition, allows one to connect in imagination what
is learned from sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. ENTJs are best at gathering data called
structures. and structures are the most complex kind of information there is. A structure is
the underlying form in a complex system. Its the simplest way of holding the largest amount of
information together in the brain. This means that if you point an ENTJ at a task, the first thing
they do is look for the way the task fits into a larger framework. They must have a Whole to work
with. They function best when they are working on far-reaching problems, and their solutions will
have a wide impact. And when they are working on a problem, they never lose sight of the larger

structure. As managers, they can closely follow the work of one committee but still keep the
whole organization' interest in mind. All of the Intuitives are said to look for the big picture.
But ENTJs, according to Lowen, have the honor of being interested in the Biggest Picture.
LOWEN on processor capacity: ENTJs find logic in structures. ENTJs take on problems
that seem too big to be managed, and by outlining, sorting, categorizing, dividing, and
sequencing, they create plans for solving complex problems and bring lofty, far-reaching goals into
reality. ENTJs take a lot of things into consideration when they create their plans, from the
ultimate goal to the day-to-day details. But they cannot deal with details unless they have a vision
of the big picture, or structure, first (that is the data that triggers them). Whereas INTJs prefer
to build logic up into a structured whole, ENTJs prefer to break structured wholes down into
logical pieces. Its been called reverse engineering. ENTJs seem naturally suited to manage large
organizations. Top dogs in business, government, the military, and education are often ENTJs. But
they are also drawn to small organizations with lots of potential. That potential acts as the big
picture, or structure, that excites them, and they enjoy using their logical minds to analyze what
it would take to bring that growth about. Even when, by choice or chance, ENTJs do not hold
positions of authority, they have a clear-headed way of laying things out. Once you understand
what needs to be done, it is half done, and the logic of ENTJ fosters that understanding.
What ENTJs are really asking when they ask questions: Inspire me with the underlying structure
of the whole thing.
CAREERS that are attractive to the ENTJ analyst: Administrator, applied math and physics,
attorney, consultant, credit investigator, engineering science, labor relations worker, law, manager,
marketing personnel, medicine as diagnosis, mortgage banker, personnel professional, science and
applied science, systems analyst, trouble-shooting, anything involving logic and verbal skills, and
other occupations that allow ENTJs to use their strategic sense.
IN A NUTSHELL: Logical. Decisive. Planned. Tough. Strategic. Critical. Controlled.
Challenging. Straightforward. Objective. Fair. Theoretical.
Intuitive, innovative ORGANIZER; analytical, systematic, confident; pushes to get action on new
ideas and challenges.
What most drives ENTJs: MISSION
What most drives them wild: INCOMPETENCY
TYPE PATTERNS IN DEVELOPED ADULT ENTJs: Reasoned, logical, curious, fair with high
expectations, like to control, focused on the future, organized, logical action takers, seek variety,
energetic about many topics and interests, like immediate planning, persistent, pursue closure,
want to have fairness in relationships, motivated by challenges.
See Keirsey: http://keirsey.com/personality/ntej.html

ENTP
Most inventive. One exciting challenge after another
4.7% Total in U.S. population
4.7% White
4.5% Afr. Amer.
3.7% Hispanic

6.7% Male
2.8% Female
Dominant Extraverted Intuition with Auxiliary Introverted Thinking
The Dominant function is the perceptive one of Intuition. Characteristics associated with this
function include looking at information from a global viewpoint, spotting patterns and
relationships that lead to an understanding of the key issues; focusing more on possibilities for the
future than the here-and-now; and enjoying change, challenge, and variety.
The perceptive Intuition function is extraverted, and is used primarily to govern the outer world
of actions and spoken words. The ENTP will therefore

try ideas out, to explore new possibilities and discover, by experience, which ones work;

change procedures to see if any improvement can be made rather than operate them;

be interested primarily in evolutionary development, perhaps with an eye on the strategy;

be more interested in exploring ideas than bringing theme to closure.

The Intuition function is primarily supported by introverted Thinking judgment, and is used
primarily to manage the inner world of thoughts and emotions. This will modify the way that the
Intuition is directed by

focusing the (outer world) Intuition on ideas and possibilities that relate to systems and
concepts;
inwardly tending to spot the spot the flaws in situations, people, or ideas;
rather than expressing criticism directly, it may surface in the form of contradictory ideas and
possibilities;

applying logical analysis to perceived patterns and possibilities, enabling the ENTP to quickly
see the underlying principles in a situation.
ENTPs, in general, are known for their quest of the novel and complex. They have faith in their
ability to improvise and to overcome any challenges that they face. They are highly independent,
and value adaptability and innovation. They may be several steps ahead of others in encouraging
and valuing change. ENTPs hate uninspired routine and resist hierarchical and bureaucratic
structures that are not functional. They need freedom for action. With their entrepreneurial
tendencies and broad understandings, they push against all odds to further their projects. They are
at their best in changing circumstances in which they can develop conceptual models and devise
strategies to effectively navigate through change.

Quick, ingenious, good at many things. Stimulating company, alert and outspoken. May argue
for fun on either side of a question. Resourceful in solving new and challenging problems, but may
neglect routine assignments. Apt to turn to one new interest after another. Skillful in finding
logical reasons for what they want.
PROGRESS IS THE PRODUCT: For the ENTP the public world is an exciting one
(Extraversion). If things arent exciting, the ENTP will likely want to go out there and make it so,
because the external world is full of endless possibilities, random abstractions, and theoretical
connections (Intuition). These perceptions are filtered through objective, impersonal decisions
(Thinking), none of which are terribly binding because each day brings new options, openendedness, and spontaneity (Perception).

Hence, while ENTPs can be exciting, they may not be terribly committed to a schedule or
project if a better deal or a more exciting challenge comes along en route. Its the nature of the
ENTP to be living on the edge of the future, and sometimes the presentalways expecting,
frequently achieving, and certainly changing each situation. Change for the sake of change will
teach everyone involved something, even if it is only the reality that the change was a bad one.
The experience of learning even that will have made it all worthwhile. Following a star that
ultimately goes nowhere is often better than being bound by a routine or caught up in some form
of dullness or doing something that involves no learning at all.
LOWEN on data capacity: ENTPs see patterns. ENTPs prefer Thinking data and probably
prefer the sense of sight. Thinking data is best described as inanimate (even people are
translated into roles), and the eye is the best tool for understanding the inanimate world, taking it
apart and looking at its inner workings. ENTPs are best at gathering the data called patterns. A
pattern is a common thread that runs through and holds things together. Because of patterns,
ENTPs are very skillful at handling large amounts of abstract and concrete data. They are able to
remain calm in the midst of storms of information because, as long as they have a pattern in
their heads, they can accept data as part of it, or jettison it as irrelevant. While others get lost in
the amount and complexity of the information, ENTPs keep their eyes on the pattern, or what is
actually going to affect the outcome.
LOWEN on processor capacity: ENTPs strategize the patterns. ENTPs are best at coming
up with plans for exploiting their observations of patterns. When looking for words to describe
the special nature of ENTPs, the best choice is always clever. Thats why strategizing the
patterns is usually associated with idea people like consultants, entrepreneurs, inventors, and
strategists. The capacity of strategy develops in early adolescence. This is a very exciting time
for young people. They discover that they can stand back from life, look at it coolly, and work out
plans to get what they want. This is the plateau at which children begin to think like adults, and to
take on the role of masters of the own destinies and the destinies of others. ENTPs always carry
with them the exhilaration of that stage of life. When people tell them, I dont know what to do,
or Theres nothing we can do, it gets their minds racing. They come up with a clever strategy
that proves that life is a solvable problem. They remind us that we have the power to control it.
What ENTPs are really asking when they ask questions: Show me the patterns.
CAREERS that are attractive to the ENTP suspector: Actor, chemical engineer, comptroller,
computer systems analyst, credit investigator, detective service, journalist, marketeer, marketing
personnel, military or strategic planning, photographer, psychiatrist, public relations worker, sales
agent, any job involving strategies and planning with visual pattern recognition skills, and other
occupations that allow them to be innovative.
IN A NUTSHELL: Enterprising. Independent. Outspoken. Strategic. Creative. Adaptive.
Challenging. Analytical. Clever. Resourceful. Questioning. Theoretical.
Inventive, analytical PLANNER OF CHANGE; enthusiastic and independent; pursues inspiration
with impulsive energy; seeks to understand and inspire others.
What most drives ENTPs: CHALLENGING PROBLEMS
What most drives them wild: ROUTINE
TYPE PATTERNS IN DEVELOPED ADULT ENTPs: Value change, like to learn, avoid
routines, take risks, future-oriented, slow to trust, verbally critical, think while talking, eclectic,

make changes often, quick-thinking, love ideas and intellectual challenge, ingenious, adventurous,
questioning, defiant, delegate the details, like a quick pace.
See Keirsey: http://keirsey.com/personality/ntep.html

The NF Temperament
15.8 percent of US population
INFJINFPENFJENFP
IF YOU ARE AN NF: Caring and Questioning. Like NTs, the N means that you like to use
iNtuition when you collect information rather than relying only on facts and what you observe.
The F means that you make decisions through Feeling or values rather than logic and reason.
Together, the NF characteristics make you a person who is warm-hearted, likes people, generally
feels upbeat about the future, and constantly searches for ways to understand life, the self, and
others.
NFs look at the world and see possibilities (Intuition), then translate those possibilities inter- and
intrapersonally (Feeling). They eat, sleep, think, breathe, move, and love people. They are the
idealists of life and tend to serve causes that advance human interests: teaching, humanities,
counseling, religion, and family medicine, among others. They are idealistic do-gooders,
articulating and championing various causes. Their sensitivity leads them to personalize any form
of criticism, often resulting in their needlessly feeling hurt. NFs feel that the most important thing
is to be in harmony with themselves and with others. Their quest is for identity. This quest leads
them forever to ask: Who am I?
NFs strengths (which, when maximized, become liabilities) include:

a phenomenal capacity for working with people and drawing out their best;

being articulate and persuasive;

a strong desire to help others;

the ability to affirm others freely and easily.

Management: NF managers are positive, affirming idealists whom others may like, but whose
warm style makes it difficult for others to disagree with them. NF managers often have difficulty
being firm supervisors and tend to give workers too much leeway.

Mating: NF mates are often teddy bears who, out of a deep need to give and receive affection
as well as to avoid conflict may inadvertently reduce a relationship to a hug a day keeps
problems away.
Parenting: NF parents provide unlimited warmth and affection, but their ongoing quest for selfidentity creates a confusing role model to a child trying to grow up. NF parents defend their
children against all odds and in all situations.
Teaching: NF teachers make each individual student feel important and cared about. They make
superb teachers, albeit a bit idealistic at times. Successful learning, in NFs eyes, is a product of
students feeling happy and understood.
Learning: NF students like to please their teachers, but perhaps more than SFs, take criticism too
personally.

Money: NFs look at money as one of the least important things, something to be used for, but not
at the expense of, their ideals.
We encounter a special difficulty in attempting to put into words the nature of the NF types.
Where the othersthe SP, SJ, and NTpursue ordinary goals, the goal of the NF cannot be seen
as other than extraordinary. Indeed, so extraordinary is his goal that not even the NF himself can
talk about it in a straightforward way. It defies his description. Carl Rogers presents an excellent
illustration of the tortuous and convoluted rhetoric seemingly required:
Becoming a Person means that the individual moves toward being, knowingly and
acceptingly, the process which he inwardly and actually is. He moves away from being what
he is not, from being a facade. He is not trying to be more than he is, with the attendant
feelings of insecurity or bombastic defensiveness. He is not trying to be less than he is, with
the attendant feeling of guilt or self-depreciation. He is increasingly listening to the deepest
recesses of his psychological and emotional being, and finds himself increasingly willing to be,
with greater accuracy and depth, that self which he most truly is.
Although this passage is seen by other styles as at best speaking in riddles, and at worst sheer
nonsense, that same passage is revered by the NF as elegantly expressing the NF waythe search
for Self.
The purposes of SPs, SJs, and NTs are understood by SPs, SJs, and NTs alike, although they
may not embrace them. The NT can understand the SPs desire to be free of responsibility just as
he can understand the SJs satisfaction in its possession. So can the SP see the NTs desire to store
up capabilities and the SJs desire to store up commodities. He would be the last to look a gift
horse in the mouth, for that matter, since these stores tend to be given out to those who need
them. The SJ even admires the NT his technical storehouse and envies the SP his generous and
receiving nature. But here the mutual understanding of purposes ends. None of these understand
the aim of the NF, and in turn, the NF cannot really grasp the others commitment to what seems
to the NF to be false goals. For the NF pursues a strange end, a self-reflective end which defies
itself: becoming.
How can I become the kind of person I really am? asks the NF. He hungers for selfactualization, to be and to become real. To be what he is meant to be and to have an identity
which is uniquely his. His endless search most often causes him guilt, believing that his real self is
somehow less than it ought to be. And so he wanders, sometimes spiritually, sometimes
psychologically, sometimes physically, seeking to satisfy his hunger for unity and uniqueness, to
become self-actualized into a perfect whole and to have an identity which is perfectly unique, even
though the paths in search of self are never clearly marked.
To be a grain of sand lost on a beach with millions of other grains is to be nothing. To be lost
in the crowd, to have the same meaning as others, to share a faceless identity is not to be at all. In
order to make a difference and to maintain individuality, the unique contributions made by the NF
in his roles as worker, friend, lover, parent, leader, son, daughter, homemaker, wife, husband,
creator must be recognized. No matter how the NF structures his time and relationships, he needs
to have meaning. He wants their significance appreciated, or, at the very least, recognized as
existing. Only through this kind of feedback does the NF know that he has unique identity.
Self-realization of the NF means to have integrity, that is, unity. There must be no facade, no
mask, no pretense, no sham, no playing of roles. To have integrity is to be genuine, to
communicate authentically, to be in harmony with the inner experiences of self. To be inauthentic,
false, two-faced, phony, to be less than real is to lose self and live a life of bad faith.

Living a life of significance, making a difference in the world, does satisfy the NFs hunger for
unique identity. It is no wonder that he experiences life as a drama, each encounter pregnant with
significance. The NF can bring to each relationship a heightened sense of meaning, lending drama
to the events in those relationships. NFs are extremely sensitive to subtleties in gestures and
metaphoric behavior not always visible to other types; he is also vulnerable to adding dimensions
to communications which are not always shared or perceived by others.
Although these NFs make up only [about 16] percent of the general population, their
influence on the minds of the populace is massive, for most writers come from this group.
Novelists, dramatists, television writers, playwrights, journalists, poets, and biographers are
almost exclusively NFs. Technical and scientific writers tend to be NTs, but writers who wish to
inspire and persuade, who produce literature, most often are NFs. The questions which this group
asks about the meaning of life, of their own lives, and what is significant for humankind, saturate
fictional literature. The theme of people in restless search of self runs through novel after novel, is
voiced by protagonist after protagonist, and is the source of agony in drama after drama.
The search for meaning as a necessary pilgrimage for all people is advanced by the NFs in
their writings. Very often the other types, the SJs, NTs, and SPs, are troubled by the thought that
they ought to be pursuing these values, even if, somehow, the search for meaning and integrity
does not beckon to them. This reluctance of the rest of the world to join the search for selfactualization is a great source of mystification to the NFs.
As NFs well know, the pen is mightier than the sword. But the impact of the NF is not limited
to the written word. NFs heavily populate the professions of psychiatry, clinical and counseling
psychology, the ministry, and teaching. More than any other group NFs can speak and write
fluently, often with poetic flair. As members of the communication media, NFs may exhibit a sense
of mission, using their creative efforts to win followers for their cause, whatever it may be.
But though an NF can get caught up in a cause, he may not stay involved for long if the cause
fails to have deep, lasting significance, with opportunity to better the conditions of people in the
world. NFs, as a group, show little interest in buying and selling or any commercial occupations,
nor do they find the physical sciences particularly attractive. They prefer to work with words, and
need and want to be directly or indirectly in communication with people. One of the ways they
work with people is through the interpretive arts. Where the SPs are drawn to the performing arts,
the NFs are drawn to the arts which involve verbal and written communication. As actors and
actresses, the NFs take on the character of the person being portrayed. Where the SP would be
playing himself dressed up in a costume (for example, John Wayne playing himself dressed as a
cowboy, soldier, businessman, or lawman), the NFs personality is submerged in his role. The SP
actor remains himself and is never in danger of questioning his identity; the NF actor, on and off
stage, can acquire a different identity with each role he plays.
The NF has an extraordinary capability to appear to his beholder to be whatever the beholder
wants to see. And seldom does the NF find it necessary, with his powers of empathy, to relieve the
beholder of his illusions. Rather, the NF withholds his self-knowledge, except with those he cares
for deeply. That his general public sees him as other than he knows himself to be is a matter of
internal amusement. The NF is willing to let be whatever appears to be, if this is what the
insignificant other seems to need and want.
NFs report over and over that they are subject to an inner voice which urges them to Be
real, authentic, meaningful. Always in the NF is that voice dialoguing about being whole,
significant, and oneself. At once audience and actor, the NF is caught in a split in awareness; he is

always on stage, and, at the same time, is watching himself being on stage. The irony of this
consuming hunger for a sense of being oneself is that it condemns the NF to be ever split, standing
to one side and watching himself be himself.
Perhaps because the work of the NF needs to give significance as well as provide service
which would content an SJand because he needs work which matters to him and to others
often the NF has difficulty placing limits on the amount of time and energy he devotes to his work.
Unlike the SP who can work on impulse, the NF works toward a vision of perfection: the perfect
work of art, the perfect play, novel, film, the perfect relationship. And, of course, once the work is
done, once the creation is created, it never seems to live up to the magnificence of its conception.
Nonetheless, NFs tend to be unwilling or unable to limit a commitment they make to a
production, once they become involved. At that point, they can be unreasonably demanding on
both themselves and others around them.
Although he is apt to be passionate in his pursuit of a creative effort, the NF can be an
intellectual butterfly, flitting from idea to idea, a dilettante in his pursuit of knowledge when
compared to an NT. The NF wants to taste all the abundance of life, as does the SP, but always
wants his experiences to have meaning beyond the mere event. NFs tend to romanticize their
experiences, their lives, and the experiences and lives of others, and they are apt to be far more
interested in people-watching than in abstractions. As with the NT, the NF is future-oriented and
focused on what might be. But, rather than thinking about the possibilities of principles as does
the NT, the NF thinks about the possibilities in people. He enjoys bringing out the best in others
and speaks often of actualizing the potential of others and of himself. As with his perception of
himself, so it is with the NFs perception of others: Whatever is, is never quite sufficient. The
thought that the visible is all there is, is untenable for an NF.
An NFs hunger is not centered on things but people. They are not content with abstractions;
they seek relationships. Their need does not ground in action; it vibrates with interaction. As the
NF seeks self-actualization in identity and unity, he is aware that this is a life-long process, an
ideal toward being and becoming a final, finished self.
KEIRSEY on NFs: On the introspective side, Myers had NFs as friendly to the core in dreaming
up how to give meaning and wholeness to peoples lives. Conflict in those around them is painful
for NFs, something they must deal with in a very personal way, and so they care deeply about
keeping morale high in their membership groups, and about nurturing the positive self-image of
their loved ones. Indeed, while they might differ from each other on how important judging
schedules (J) or probing for options (P) is in acting on their friendly feelings, and while their social
address can be expressive (E) or reserved (I), all NFs consider it vitally important to have
everyone in their circletheir family, friends, and colleaguesfeeling good about themselves and
getting along with each other.
Thus Myers, an INFP herself, saw her fellow NFs as humane and sympatheticas
enthusiastic and religiousas creative and intuitiveand as insightful and
subjective. Again this is a distinct picture of attitude and action, showing NFs to be very much
like each other and greatly different from SPs, SJs, and NTs.
Brief sketches of the four MBTI types belonging to the NF Temperament:

INFJ
Most contemplative. An inspiration to others
Dominant Introverted Intuition with Auxiliary Extraverted Feeling.
2.6% Total in U.S. population
2.9% White
0.6% Afr. Amer.
3.7% Hispanic
2.0% Male
3.1% Female
Dominant Introverted Intuition with Auxiliary Extraverted Feeling
The Dominant function is the perceptive one of Intuition. Characteristics associated with this
function include looking at information from a global viewpoint, spotting patterns and
relationships that lead to an understanding of the key issues; focusing more on possibilities for the
future than the here-and-now; and enjoying change, challenge, and variety.
The perceptive Intuition function is introverted, and is used primarily to govern the inner world of
thoughts and emotions. The INFJ will therefore

seek to develop an understanding of how the world is, or can be;

seek to understand the patterns underlying his or her observations; be strategic in nature,
wanting to establish a clear vision towards which the INFJ is working;

not involve others in the development of that vision.

The Intuition function is primarily supported by extraverted Feeling judgment, and is used
primarily to manage the outer world of actions and spoken words. This will modify the way that
the Intuition is directed by

focusing the (inner world) Intuition on ideas and possibilities that relate to people;
expressing appreciation for the contributions of others, particularly where they have done or
said something that supports the INFJs ideals;

making decisions on the basis of values that support the INFJs understanding of the world,
and conform to his or her vision.
INFJs, in general, are future oriented, and direct their insight and inspiration toward the
understanding of themselves and thereby human nature. Their work mirrors their integrity, and it
needs to reflect their inner ideals. Solitude and an opportunity to concentrate thoroughly on what
counts most is important to them. INFJs prefer to quietly exert their influence. They have deeply
felt compassion, and they desire harmony with others. INFJs understand the complexities existing
within people and among them. They do not call a great deal of attention to themselves, preferring
that their contributions speak for them. They are at their best concentrating on their ideas, ideals,
and inspirations.

Succeed by perseverance, originality, and desire to do whatever is needed or wanted. Put

their best efforts into their work. Quietly forceful, conscientious, concerned for others. Respected
for their firm principles. Likely to be honored and followed for their clear visions as to how best
to serve the common good.

AN INSPIRING LEADER AND FOLLOWER: The focus of the INFJ is inward, meditative,
and reflective (Introversion), and their perception of life is to see it as filled with endless
possibilities and meanings, usually in a big-picture context (Intuition). These symbols and
abstractions are translated through their subjective, interpersonal decision-making preference
(Feeling), which in turn is acted out in a lifestyle that is structured, scheduled, and ordered
(Judging). The INFJs Intuition is Introverted, and the Feeling Judgments are more imposed on
others. The combination is a rather rich and imaginative inner drive that reveals itself in the form
of caring and concern for otherswith just enough structure to be believable. Theyre not all talk;
they deliver the goods.
Wherever scholarly dependability is needed in the workplace, theres no better person to turn
to than an INFJ. A popular human-services-oriented type, most of their energies, at work or at
home, are directed toward bettering a condition, especially the human one. No one word does
justice to the complexities of the human personality. However, the word gentle continues to come
to mind when thinking of the INFJ.
INFJs strengths include their intellectual prowess, their personal idealism, and their general
caring and concern for humanity. The combination of their four letters leads them to pursue the
theoretical and accomplish most goals by which academic achievement is measured. Few people
fully appreciate the rich inner life of the INFJ and how steeped it is in imaginative, creative,
abstract ideas and concepts. The INFJ can easily spend an entire day just dreaming and
envisioning. Such pursuit is its own reward, and to be allowed to do thatand to encourage
others to do the sameis what life is all about for the INFJ. Consequently, any task or event will
always be the richer if he or she can first place it in some conceptual frame of reference that
includes thinking it through thoroughly. INFJs nonstop search for learning, self-growth, and
developmentand wishing the same for everyone elsemakes them very reassuring to others
and people worth emulating. Their keen insights and generally strong character are an inspiration
to all.
Feeling types as a rule are idealists, and INFJs (along with their cousins, the INFPs) lead the
pack. This is interesting, because while they are not given to rocking the boat, when an INFJs
ideals are on the line, it seems that he or she can take on any odds and win. Suddenly this pliable,
gentle, concerned INFJ can become a strong-willed determinist who faces a cause equipped with
the intellectual foundation that can render opponents defenseless. Whatever the cause, you wont
do badly having an INFJ on your side.
LOWEN on data capacity: INFJs hear preferences. They prefer Feeling data, and
probably prefer the sense of hearing. Feeling data is best described as animate, most often
people, and people make sounds. Human thought and feelings tend to be invisible to the eye and
must be verbalized. When we use the words human contact, we dont mean touching each other
as much as we mean speaking and listening to each other. INFJs are best at gathering the data
called preferences. Preferences are value judgments that are compared to each other and
placed on something of a scale. Both ISFJs and INFJs are interested in ordered feelings, but ISFJs
want them ordered into two categories as long as possible, while INFJs want them ordered into a
wide range of categories, and will change the order depending upon the moment.
LOWEN on processor capacity: INFJs associate the preferences. To find the association
is to find what many people, or all people, have in common. Like the INTJs, who want to find a
visualization of the structure that holds a complex system together, INFJs wan to find the one big
idea, expressed in a few words, that holds a lot of people together. The data for INFJs is

preferences, so they begin where people are talking about what they prefer, what they favor,
value or consider most important. INFJs might begin with their own preferences and try to
associate them with other people, or they may begin with the preferences of others and try to
associate them with themselves.
What INFJs are really asking when they ask questions: Tell me how this relates to the people and
things I prefer.
CAREERS that are attractive to the INFJ critic: Clergy, education consultant, librarian,
marketeer, media specialist, physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, scientist, social worker, teacher
(English, fine arts, drama), and other occupations that allow INFJs an opportunity to make their
own creative contribution.
IN A NUTSHELL: Committed. Compassionate. Intense. Determined. Sensitive. Holistic. Loyal.
Creative. Deep. Conceptual. Reserved. Idealistic.
People-oriented INNOVATOR of ideas, serious, quietly forceful and persevering; concerned with
the common good, with helping others develop.
What most drives INFJs: UNDERSTANDING PEOPLE
What most drives them wild: CRITICISM
TYPE PATTERNS IN DEVELOPED ADULT INFJs: Quiet problem solvers, global perspective,
avoid conflict, like many points of view, enjoy generating options, work with complex people
problems, establish enduring friendships, decisive, attentive to other people.
See Keirsey: http://keirsey.com/personality/nfij.html

INFP
Most idealistic. Performing noble service to aid society
4.3% Total in U.S. population
5.0% White
0.0% Afr. Amer.
1.9% Hispanic
4.5% Male
4.2% Female
Dominant Introverted Feeling with Auxiliary Extraverted Intuition
The Dominant function is the judging one of Feeling. Characteristics associated with this function
include making decisions on the basis of personal values; being appreciative and accepting of
peopleenjoying company and seeking harmony; assessing the impact of decisions on others,
being sympathetic or compassionate; and taking a personal approach.
The judging Feeling function is introverted and used primarily to govern the inner world of
thoughts and emotions. The INFP will

develop an inner emotional life that is often unseen by others, but is experienced as intense;

retain a strong sense of values, which are often not expressed;

emotionally accept or reject various aspects of lifefor example, deciding whether praise or
criticism received is valid and, at extreme, ignoring whatever is unacceptable;

feel appreciation toward others, but not express it.

The Intuitive perception is extraverted and used primarily to manage the outer world of actions
and spoken words. This will modify the way that the Feeling is directed by

focusing the (inner world) Feeling on ideas and possibilities for people;

looking for meaningful relationships;

deciding on friendships through insight into their personality and motivation.

INFPs, in general, focus deeply on their values, and they devote their lives to pursuing the ideal.
They often draw people together around a common purpose and work to find a place for each
person within the group. They are creative, and they seek new ideas and possibilities. They quietly
push for what is important to them, and they rarely give up. While they have a gentleness about
them and a delightful sense of humor, they may be somewhat difficult to get to know and may be
overlooked by others. They are at their best making their world more in line with their internal
vision of perfection.

Quiet observers, idealistic, loyal. Important that outer life be congruent with inner values.
Curious, quick to see possibilities, often serve as catalysts to implement ideas. Adaptable, flexible,
and accepting unless a value is threatened. Want to understand people and ways of fulfilling
human potential. Little concern with possessions or surroundings.
MAKING LIFE KINDER AND GENTLER: For the INFP, reflection and contemplation
(Introversion) are coupled with a preference for abstract, futuristic, imaginative perception of the
world (Intuition). They make decisions subjectively, based upon personal values (Feeling), but
such decisions are more directed toward keeping their own house in order than toward overtly
controlling others. The INFPs day-to-day lifestyle is easygoing, flexible, and adaptive
(Perceiving), all of which makes for a reserved but warm and gracious type who is frequently
comfortable to let everyone live and let live. It is only in the domain defined by their values that
the INFP can become somewhat controlling. But that only happens when he or she feels
something personally important has been invaded.
People with INFP preferences have a great deal of warmth, but may not show it until they
know a person well. They keep their warm side inside, like a fur-lined coat. They are very faithful
to duties and obligations related to ideas or people they care about. They take a very personal
approach to life, judging everything by their inner ideals and personal values. They stick to their
ideals with passionate conviction. Although their inner loyalties and ideals govern their lives, they
find these hard to talk about. Their deepest feelings are seldom expressed; their inner tenderness is
masked by a quiet reserve.
In everyday matters they are tolerant, open-minded, understanding, flexible, and adaptable.
But if their inner loyalties are threatened, they will not give an inch. Except for their works sake,
INFPs have little wish to impress or dominate. The people they prize the most are those who take
the time to understand their values and the goals they are working toward. Their main interest lies
in seeing the possibilities beyond what is present, obvious, or known. They are twice as good
when working at a job they believe in, since their feeling puts added energy behind their efforts.
They want their work to contribute to something that matters to themhuman understanding,
happiness, or health. They want to have a purpose beyond their paycheck, no matter how big the
check. They are perfectionists whenever they care deeply about something.

INFPs are curious about new ideas and tend to have insight and long-range vision. Many are
interested in books and language and are likely to have a gift of expression; with talent they may
be excellent writers. They can be ingenious and persuasive on the subject of their enthusiasms,
which are quiet but deep-rooted. They are often attracted to counseling, teaching, literature, art,
science, or psychology. The problem for some INFPs is that they may feel such a contrast between
their ideals and their actual accomplishments that they burden themselves with a sense of
inadequacy. This can happen even when, objectively, they are being as effective as others. It is
important for them to use their intuition to find ways to express their ideals; otherwise they will
keep dreaming of the impossible and accomplish very little. If they find no channel for expressing
their ideals, INFPs may become overly sensitive and vulnerable, with dwindling confidence in life
and in themselves.
LOWEN on data capacity: INFPs intuit combinations. INFPs prefer to take in information
the data capacitythrough the sixth sense, that is, the sense that perceives the invisible
connections between things. The sixth sense, intuition, allows one to connect in imagination what
is learned from sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. INFPs need to see how things connect.
Information cannot be processed in isolation but must appear with appendages that link it to
everything else. You can catch an INFPs attention with metaphors, symbols, and by linking ideas
to other ideas. The things that people see that are not apparent to the senses, Lowen calls
combinations. Combinations are things that we wouldnt ordinarily think of putting together.
On the surface, they seem to have nothing in common. INFPs need to see life in new ways. In
their heads they play with new combinations of words, notes, colors, people, or ideas. They
tend to see something else, something more, something different and surprising, in what everyone
else thought was simple and straightforward. This naturally throws people off. The data for INFPs
is combinations, which means they enjoy connecting different kinds of ideas and disparate facts.
The end product, or processor capacity is harmony.
LOWEN on processor capacity: INFPs harmonize the combinations. INFPs look for
harmony in the data combinations. INFPs act on possible combinations by determining if they
really fit well together, according to how they make the INFP feel, although immediate harmony
can be sacrificed if there is hope of having a greater harmony in the future. Because INFPs act on
things with Feeling, what we see of them is sensitivity, and an artistic quality. Besides words,
INFPs may see the harmony in unusual combinations of musical notes, or figures in a drawing.
Certain combinations of people may feel right to them; certain ideas may give them a good
feeling. But whether they are harmonizing relationships, words, musical notes, ideas, or colors
and forms, most of all INFPs seek harmony within themselves and want to help others find an
inner peace as well.
What INFPs are really asking when they ask questions: Inspire me with a new combination.
CAREERS that are attractive to the INFP composer: Artist, composer, counselor, editor,
education consultant, English teacher, fine arts teacher, journalist, lyricist, musician, poet,
psychiatrist and psychologist, religious educator, social scientist, social worker, teacher, writer,
and other occupations that engage their values.
IN A NUTSHELL: Compassionate. Virtuous. Committed. Creative. Devoted. Reticent. Gentle.
Adaptable. Curious. Loyal. Contemplative. Empathetic.
Imaginative, independent HELPER; reflective, inquisitive, empathic, loyal to ideals; more
interested in possibilities than practicalities.

What most drives INFPs: PERSONAL GROWTH

What most drives them wild: CONFLICT
Reserved, intense, passionate about values, like to facilitate discussion, seek harmony, dislike
being caught off guard, enjoy autonomy, genuine about values, go with the flow, stealth risk
takers, often the social conscience in a group, inner directed, perfectionistic, oriented toward
causes, relentless searchers for what is meaningful, intrigued by complexity, prefer win/win
situations.
See Keirsey: http://keirsey.com/personality/nfip.html

ENFJ
Most persuasive. Smooth-talking persuaders
2.5% Total in U.S. population
3.0% White
0.0% Afr. Amer.
1.9% Hispanic
1.5% Male
3.4% Female
Dominant Extraverted Feeling with Auxiliary Introverted Intuition
The Dominant function is the judging one of Feeling. Characteristics associated with this function
include making decisions on the basis of personal values; being appreciative and accepting of
peopleenjoying company and seeking harmony; assessing the impact of decisions on others,
being sympathetic or compassionate; and taking a personal approach.
The judging Feeling function is extraverted, and is used primarily to govern the outer world of
actions and spoken words. The ENFJ will therefore:

seek stable, harmonious relationships;

tend to adapt to the environment, taking on board those values that are held as important by
friends and family, or society as a whole;

express the appreciation that is felt toward others;

tend to consider others feelings before his or her own;

be sensitive to praise and criticism, and seek to conform to others reasonable expectations.
The Feeling function is primarily supported by introverted Intuitive perception, and is used
primarily to manage the inner world of thoughts and emotions. This will modify the way that the
Feeling is directed by

focusing the (outer world) Feeling on ideas and possibilities for people;

looking for meaningful relationships;

aiming to understand people, gaining insight into their personality and motivation.
ENFJs, in general, are lively and enthusiastic facilitators who apply warmth and vision to helping
people and meeting their needs. They are aware of peoples aspirations and develop plans of
action to make those aspirations into reality. They like organization and closure. They are at their
best facilitating situations that require interpersonal sensitivity. ENFJs are tolerant and

appreciative of others, seeking involvement with them in lifes tasks. They are able communicators
who are liberal in showing appreciation for others.
Responsive and responsible. Feel real concern for what others think or want, and try to
handle things with due regard for others feelings. Can present a proposal or lead a group
discussion with ease and tact. Sociable, popular, sympathetic. Responsive to praise and criticism.
Like to facilitate others and enable people to achieve their potential.
SMOOTH-TALKING PERSUADERS: Each of the ENFJss preferences compound to make
them a natural convincer. Their energy comes from the outwardly directed, socially oriented,
gregarious external world (Extraversion). They prefer to perceive the world as having endless
possibilities and meanings (Intuition), which they use to make subjective, interpersonally based
decisions (Feeling). They prefer to live their daily lives in a structured, scheduled, and orderly
fashion (Judging).
If you need to sell the impossible to a reluctant buyer and make the buyer like it, then youll
do no better than to call upon an ENFJ. These smooth-talking persuaders are lifes salespeople,
and once an ENFJ is convinced that you need the product in question, you will become putty in
the ENFJs hands. He or she will combine the perfect combination of words and rapport to clinch
the deal.
When the ENFJ scans a situation, he or she is often aware of the many interpersonal
dynamics that may be taking place. From the start, their Intuitive preference interprets each
partys actions and reactionswho seems stressed, who may need to be motivated, who should
be reprimanded, who needs a listening earwith their Judging preference providing direction or
suggestions as appropriate, at least in the ENFJs mind. Frequently their advice is apt, which
engenders both gratitude and dependence on the ENFJ. When an individual or group doesnt pick
up on the ENFJs advice, the ENFJ can, in a moment, become bruised and angry at such
ingratitude.
LOWEN on data capacity: ENFJs intuit associations. ENFJs prefer to take in information
the data capacitythrough the sixth sense, that is, the sense that perceives the invisible
connections between things. The sixth sense, intuition, allows one to connect in imagination what
is learned from sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. Associations are words that call up
memories, feelings, or understanding. They are the places where an idea and a word overlap. They
are the right words for expressing things that are tough to express, like the way you feel when
someone provides you with a tissue before you have to ask. ENFJs are best at gathering the data
called associations. When they hear a word or expression that calls up feelings, or expresses an
idea well, they notice it and remember it. They find this language in places like literary,
psychological, and religious texts. But most often, they find it in the conversation of others.
LOWEN on processor capacity: ENFJs prefer the associations. The data for ENFJs is
association, which is something that many people, or all people, have in common. It can be a
shared interest, a shared predicament, or our shared human nature. ENFJs are very interested in
words that express what we all share. ENFJs just naturally see the associations between people.
They introduce you to other people who have common interests. When you tell them something,
they mention other people who have had similar experiences. When they first meet you, they ask
you questions to find out your associations, or the people you know in common. They just
naturally think in terms of networks, teams, groups, cultures, and communities. ENFJs can be
found in groups, usually in front, or at the center. They begin with what we have in common. But
what they do next, and the reason they are so talented as group leaders, is they bring up, or bring

out, the qualities of each member that makes them special, that delineates them from others. They
listen for peoples preferences and they make each member feel preferred. They give each
member a role of importance, so each member feels happy to be a part of the team, a member of
the community, or just glad to be with these other people.
What ENFJs are really asking when they ask questions: Inspire me with language rich in
associations.
CAREERS that are attractive to the ENFJ verbalist: Actor and entertainer, artist, clergy,
consultant, counselor and therapist, designer, diplomat, director, English professor, home
economist, musician, orator, preacher, religious worker, teacher, writer, and other occupations
that allow the ENFJ to be of service to others.
IN A NUTSHELL: Loyal. Idealistic. Personable. Verbal. Responsible. Expressive. Enthusiastic.
Energetic. Diplomatic. Concerned. Supportive. Congenial.
Imaginative HARMONIZER and worker-with-people; sociable, expressive, orderly, opinioned,
conscientious; curious about new ideas and possibilities.
What most drives ENFJs: MOTIVATING PEOPLE
What most drives them wild: NOT BEING APPRECIATED
TYPE PATTERNS IN DEVELOPED ADULT ENFJs: Warm, friendly, empathetic, lively,
approachable and initiating, doers, flexible, want to be trusted, like humor, sensitive to criticism,
enjoy innovating and acting on new ideas, want others to be comfortable, bridge builders among
people, try to make others feel important.
See Keirsey: http://keirsey.com/personality/nfej.html

ENFP
Most optimistic. Giving life an extra squeeze
6.3% Total in U.S. population
6.8% White
3.4% Afr. Amer.
7.4% Hispanic
6.0% Male
6.6% Female
Dominant Extraverted Intuition with Auxiliary Introverted Feeling
The Dominant function is the perceptive one of Intuition. Characteristics associated with this
function include looking at information from a global viewpoint, spotting patterns and
relationships that lead to an understanding of the key issues; focusing more on possibilities for the
future than the here-and-now; and enjoying change, challenge, and variety.
The perceptive Intuition function is extraverted, and is used primarily to govern the outer world
of actions and spoken words. The ENFP will therefore

try ideas out, to explore new possibilities and discover, by experience, which ones work;

change procedures to see if any improvement can be made, rather than just operate them;

be interested primarily in evolutionary development, perhaps with an eye on the strategy;

be more interested in exploring ideas than bringing theme to closure.

The Intuition function is primarily supported by introverted Feeling judgment, and is used
primarily to manage the inner world of thoughts and emotions. This will modify the way that the
Intuition is directed by

focusing the (outer world) Intuition on ideas and possibilities that relate to people;

inwardly appreciating the contributions of others, though not expressing it that often;

internally rejecting any options that clearly conflict with ENFPs valuesthough the rejection
might not be expressed or seen to others.
ENFPs, in general, are initiators of change who are keenly perceptive of possibilities, and who
energize and stimulate through their contagious enthusiasm. They prefer the start-up phase of a
project or relationship, and are tireless in the pursuit of new-found interests. ENFPs are able to
anticipate the needs of others and to offer them needed help and appreciation. They bring zest,
joy, liveliness, and fun to all aspects of their lives. They are at their best in situations that are fluid
and changing, and that allow them to express their creativity and use their charisma.

Warmly enthusiastic, high-spirited, ingenious, imaginative. Able to do almost anything that

interests them. Quick with a solution for any difficulty and ready to help anybody with a problem.
Often rely on their ability to improvise instead of preparing in advance. Can usually find
compelling reasons for whatever they want.
PEOPLE ARE THE PRODUCT: A zest for life combined with social gregariousness
(Extraversion) is linked with endless possibilities and alternatives (Intuition) which ENFPs apply
to a host of interpersonal encounters (Feeling) while always working their day-to-day events so as
to maximize their options (Perceiving). Like their first cousins, the ENTPs, they can exhibit wide
mood swingsalmost within the same momentand probably experience higher highs and
lower lows in the process. Nevertheless they tend to bring enthusiasm and energy to most
activities, which can be highly contagious, especially to those they lead. As they do with most
things, their tendency is to convert managerial tasks to some sort of a grand game plan, then play
it to the max, relying on their persuasiveness and creativity to keep people motivated.
ENFPs ability to empower others is one of their most impressive contributions. As a general
rule, they are a reasonably nontoxic presence that gets thrilled about and revels in others
accomplishments. In the process there will be no hesitation from the ENFP in giving credit where
credit is due. This can be inspirational, to say the least. Inspiration, rather than control, is key to
the ENFPs management style.
Another great asset of ENFPs is their ability to generate options. Its always more exciting to
engage in several projects at a time and to have more than one way to accomplish any one of
them. Like the other EPs, this is an idea person who loves to upset the proverbial apple cart and
come up with new ways of coping with boring routines and slow-moving projects. Indeed, its
often more exciting to generate alternatives than to complete the task at hand.
Still another asset is the ENFPs people skills. As a rule ENFPs give strokes freely and are
responsive to other peoples needs. They can generally find time to pause and help, affirm, listen,
or do whatever else is needed to get someone unstuck and back into the swing of things.
For the ENFP, stress generally comes in the form of those areas of their lives, private and
professional, that cannot be converted into play or fun. As a task or responsibility drags on and its
mantle becomes increasingly routine, the ENFP can become more pensive, moody, and even rigid.

The more rigidity is demanded of the ENFP, the more rigid her or she may become, giving way to
behaviors quite removed from his or her normal enthusiasm and effervescence. Filling out income
tax forms, paying bills, working too much alone, or being compelled to meet specific deadlines are
the kinds of tasks that set the ENFP up for stress and, in doing so, make them quite stressful to be
around.
LOWEN on data capacity: ENFPs hear harmonies. ENFPs prefer Feeling data, and
probably prefer the sense of hearing. Feeling data is best described as animate, most often
people, and people make sounds. Human thought and feelings tend to be invisible to the eye and
must be verbalized. When we use the words human contact, we dont mean touching each other
as much as we mean speaking and listening to each other. Harmonies are things that may not be
similar, but are pleasing together. They balance each other; they fit. Harmonies are the pleasing
qualities in people, or the good that can come out of any situation. If you think of life as sound,
ENFPs are best at hearing the sweet notes amid all the noise. If there is any information that is
pleasing about us, they will gather it. If there is any bright side to a situation, they will look on it.
ENFPs are also very aware of disharmony where it is subtle, or hidden. But that is not what
they like to dwell on.
LOWEN on processor capacity: ENFPs combine the harmonies. To combine is to put
together things that dont go together in any overt, or apparent, or logical way. ENFPs are always
asking themselves What if I put this and this together, what will happen? They are very
imaginative, always trying out scenarios and possibilities. ENFPs use their imagination primarily
with people. They ask themselves What if that were me? They are, of all the types, most able to
imagine themselves in someone elses shoes. ENFPs are very good at perceiving why people do
things, or are the way they are. Their data capacity is harmony, so they are very in tune to the
harmonious or disharmonious vibes in people. Then, they use their imaginations to get inside
peoples heads and play with different scenarios until they come up with one that would produce
the same vibes. To others, ENFP assessments sound like they come out of the blue, but they really
come out of their ability to imagine themselves in other situations and play with possibilities.
Walter Lowen says, Because my ENFP wife is constantly imagining what it would be like if every
terrible thing she hears about had happened to her, shes marvelous at handling crisesshes been
there before.
What ENFPs are really asking when they ask questions: Tell me what is harmonious about this.
CAREERS that are attractive to the ENFP perceiver: Artist, business, clergy, consultant,
counselor, entertainer, family law, journalist, psychiatrist, public relations worker, rehabilitation
counselor, shopkeeper, social scientist, social worker, teacher (art and drama), writer, and other
occupations that allow ENFPs to use their creativity and insight.
IN A NUTSHELL: Enthusiastic. Creative. Spontaneous. Independent. Perceptive. Imaginative.
Versatile. Curious. Expressive. Friendly. Energetic. Restless.
Warmly enthusiastic PLANNER OF CHANGE; imaginative, individualistic; pursues inspiration
with impulsive energy; seeks to understand and inspire others.
What most drives ENFPs: RELATIONSHIPS
What most drives them wild: STRICTURES
TYPE PATTERNS IN DEVELOPED ADULT ENFPs: Involved with many different tasks, work
in short intense spurts of energy, insatiable curiosity, love creating ideas, trust others at face value,
diplomatic, difficulty deciding, trust hunches, exuberant, spontaneous, accommodating, challenge

systems and rules, take pride in adapting to situations, insightful about people and their needs,
easygoing, warm, work well under pressure, optimistic, good at reading between the lines.
See Keirsey: http://keirsey.com/personality/nfep.html

TYPE TABLE
Introverts: Top two rows.
Sensors: Left two columns.
Thinkers: Left and right columns.
Judgers: Top and bottom rows.

Extraverts: Bottom two rows

Intuitives: Right two columns.
Feelers: Middle two columns.
Perceivers: Middle two rows.

ISTJ

ISFJ

INFJ

INTJ

Doing What Should Be

Done (15.6%)

A High Sense of Duty

(11.5%)

An Inspiration to
Others (2.6%)

Everything Has Room

for Improvement (3.5%)

Most strong and silent

Most loyal

Most empathic

Most independent

ISTP

ISFP

INFP

INTP

Ready to Try Anything

Once (6.4%)

Sees Much But Shares

Little (4.55%)

Performing Noble Service

to Aid Society (4.3%)

A Love of Problem
Solving (5.2%)

Most skillful with tools

Most artistic

Most non-directive

Most logical

ESTP

ESFP

ENFP

ENTP

The Ultimate Realists

(4.8%)

You Only Go Around

Once in Life (5.7%)

Giving Life an Extra

Squeeze (6.3%)

One Exciting Challenge

After Another (4.7%)

Most unpredictable

Most generous

Most optimistic

Most inventive

ESTJ

ESFJ

ENFJ

ENTJ

Lifes Administrators
(9.9%)

Hosts and Hostesses of

the World (9.6%)

Smooth Talking
Persuaders (2.5%)

Lifes Natural Leaders

(2.8%)

Most hard-charging

Most harmonizing

Most persuasive

Most commandeering

A brief test to help determine your four MBTI letters.

(Note: This is not the MBTI or Keirsey Temperament Sorter.)

Are you an Extravert or an Introvert?

Select one choice from each row and add up your selections below.
EXTRAVERTS:

INTROVERTS:

value sociability

value solitude

are not territorial

protect their space

prefer interaction

avoid unnecessary interaction

expend energy freely

conserve personal energy

focus on external events

focus on internal reactions

may talk without thinking

usually think without talking

are easy to read

are hard to know

need contact and conversation

need solitude and privacy

know many people superficially

know few people, but deeply

talk

listen

seek stimulation

seek peace

say what they mean

keep to themselves

believe: What you see is what you get!

believe: Still waters run deep.

What you see is what you get! I am

talkative, open, and relatively easy to read. I
need interactions with people every day to
keep my personal batteries charged. I seem
to speak without thinking sometimes.

Still waters run deep. I am quiet, reserved,

andeven though I do have a social sideI
need more peace and privacy than most
people. I am likely to think without speaking.

I am an Extravert (E).__________________

I am an Introvert (I).___________________

Do you prefer Sensing or Intuition?

Select one choice from each row and add up your selections below.
SENSORS:

INTUITIVES:

past experience

future optimism

realism

idealism

practical issues

theoretical issues

matter-of-fact style

enthusiastic style

facts and figures

broad concepts

systematic approaches

creative approaches

applied knowledge

abstract knowledge

steady work

inspired work

sensibility

genius

familiarity with procedures

novelty of assignments

details

the big picture

past, present

future

feasibility

excitement

cost, time, profit, usefulness

conceptual value, challenge

I do

I create

I am practical and realistic. I am most

comfortable dealing in the here-and-now, the
real world. I keep both feet on the ground
and use my senses to tell me whats real.

I am imaginative and creative. I am always

looking toward future possibilities, asking
myself what things mean on a larger scale.
Im a big picture idea persona natural
innovator.

I am a Sensor, (S).___________________

I am an iNtuitive (N)._________________

Are you a Thinker or a Feeler?

Select one choice from each row and add up your selections below.
THINKERS:

FEELERS:

seem cool-headed

seem warm-hearted

are system-oriented

are people-oriented

tend to be logical

tend to be sensitive

present themselves reasonably

present themselves sincerely

may deal with people unconsciously

may ignore logic in decision-making

may forget to thank or congratulate

master the art of appreciation

need reasons to follow you

need trust to follow you

value fairness

value mercy

tend to ignore interpersonal climate

attend to interpersonal climate

are perceived as masculine

are perceived as feminine

may seem tough

may seem mushy

tend to be impersonal

deal personally in all aspects of life

may ignore non-verbal communication

tune into non-verbal communication

I am logical, and I almost always make

decisions on a rational, impersonal basisor
at least, I like to think I do. Reason rules my
life, and I typically value fairness over
compassion.

I am sensitive, and I believe its important to

consider the personal element in everything I
say and do. I try to be sympathetic and
understanding with others.

I am a Thinker (T).____________________

I am a Feeler (F).______________________

Do you prefer Perception or Judgment?

Select one choice from each row and add up your selections below.
JUDGERS:

PERCEIVERS:

prefer to be deliberate

prefer to be impulsive

are skeptical about new ideas

are open to new ideas

tend to limit information, input

like to hear all sides

make decisions readily

make decisions with difficulty

prefer structured situations

enjoy unstructured situations

feel rules and regulations are essential

dislike rules and regulations

tend to respect authority

tend to resist authority

prefer to make decisions

like taking in information

plan

react

see life as simple

see life as complex

think structurally

think globally

value order

value freedom

tend to resist change

tend to embrace change

prefer to schedule

deal with time spontaneously

I like to be organized in whatever I do. I like

to get to the bottom line, make decisions,
know where Im going, know where I stand,
in all areas of my life. Schedules, order,
structure, and responsibility matter to me.

I am flexible, and I can always see the other

persons viewpoint in a controversy. I am
more comfortable observing, listening, and
taking in information, than I am making
decisions and judgments. I am open-minded.

I am a Judging type (J).________________

I am a Perceptive type (P)._______________