Under extreme stress, though, the laidback and caring INFP becomes inflexible, rigid and efficiency-driven. Instead of being open-minded and compassionate, they may become harshly critical of themselves and those around them. They may fixate on accomplishing tasks and lose touch with their creative streak.
Behaviors of INFPs under stress
Distance themselves from others and retreat into themselves. Become overly critical.
“Grip” Stress
This often happens when INFPs are in an environment that doesn't suit their natural strengths. Being in an atmosphere of negativity, constant conflict, and criticism will cause them chronic, intense stress since it conflicts with their naturally understanding, compassionate mindset.
Many unhealthy INFPs are guilty of misinterpreting anything but explicit praise as criticism or a personal attack, especially if it concerns their values. They can easily get offended and hurt, which in turn may lead them to become defensive.
Under the spell of their shadow, INFPs might rely too much on others' opinions and even feel like they have lost their identity — something usually so easily accessible to them. In this confusion, they begin to grasp at sudden (and perhaps mistaken) realizations and judgments against others.
The Demon: Introverted Thinking
This is the shadow function that feels the most foreign to the INFP. As Mark Hunziker says, “Essentially, it's our inferior inferior.” When we see other people using this function (even in a positive way) we tend to see it as negative.
INFP Weaknesses
INFPs who venture enthusiastically out into the world can end up retreating into lethargy and depression when they discover their idealism isn't always shared or respected by others, and their incredible talents can go completely to waste when they become too discouraged to continue. Impracticality.
INFPs and ISFPs feel insecure when they are asked to delegate, give or receive criticism, or do something that is objectively logical but doesn't seem right on a conscience-level.
So when INFPs are angry, they will typically retreat in order to look beneath the anger. Often a great deal of analysis goes on during these quiet moments.
The INFP – Shallowness
Shallow conversations, relationships, and activities turn INFPs off because they see them as a waste of time.
If an INFP was traumatized in childhood, they may develop a strong dependence on their therapist. This is because deep down they long for a mentor who respects them for who they are and gives them the guidance they need. At the same time, INFPs tend to be sensitive to interference.
Their emotional intensity often means that when INFPs get low, they sink very deep. They can do this because they believe that ultimately there is a path out. They can step down with a friend going through a hard time because they believe that someday both of them will return to the surface.
Shutting down when we're hurt
Yet because INFPs are mediators, we have a hard time being confrontational. We value harmonious relationships more than our own feelings, so if we are hurt, instead of bringing it up, we may shut down. We retreat to work it out internally.
INFPs are creative, imaginative, and enjoy exploring abstract ideas and concepts. They may appear reserved in social situations but are passionate and caring with those they trust. INFPs can struggle with practical tasks and decision-making, as they tend to prioritize emotions and personal values over logic.
INFP and INFJ: The Overthinkers
We start off with INFPs and INFJs: two Introverted personalities that often experience bouts of anxiety. When it comes to these types, their anxiety can stem from an inclination to overthinking.
Many INFPs mentioned a fear of dying alone, never finding a significant relationship, or never feeling understood by others.
INFP: Ambiguphobia, AKA Fear of being misunderstood
INFPs are complex characters that often find themselves misunderstood. It's a feeling they know all too well, which is why their phobia is Ambiguphobia – the fear of being misunderstood.
The pressure of having everyone looking at them waiting for a reaction can make them feel shy or awkward. Many INFPs also experience “second-hand embarrassment”. For example, they might feel embarrassed when someone is trying to make jokes but they are all falling flat.
I think the most badass quality of INFPs is that we generally strive for authenticity and we own it. When we understand what we want, we go for it.
INFPs don't have anger issues. They are fantastic at quelling their negative emotions and focusing on more positive behaviors. However, INFPs may become angry when they are dismissed, around a bully, or if they feel betrayed by someone close to them. INFPs are masters of emotional regulation.
The Eclectic Stylist, INFP: The Style Original
Style is continuity, linked with authenticity and comfort. The INFP knows when she's wearing clothes she loves: clothes that speak to her are a bit different in some way, sometimes quirky. “It doesn't matter what others think even if they think you're ridiculous.
They may withdraw from the world and become isolated, or they may act out in destructive ways. Their idealism can turn into cynicism, and their values may become inflexible. When they're in this state, INFPs are often negative, judgmental, and superior.