ISFPs are reserved and adventurous. They are creative and are always looking to improve. To most people, they have the best of both worlds. But what happens when things go wrong? The unhealthy ISFP appears.
Want to know more about how this period plays out? This article discusses the ISFP’s dark side.
Who is the Unhealthy ISFP?
The unhealthy ISFP occurs when the ISFP displays unhealthy or toxic traits. These traits are not just weaknesses. They are usually completely different from normal ISFP traits.
It’s more noticeable if the ISFP has been relatively healthy. An unhealthy ISFP is usually triggered by events or circumstances. For example, a grieving or heartbroken ISFP is likelier to become unhealthy.
Everyone tends to be unhealthy at various points in life. The issue is when the unhealthy ISFP can’t shake off these traits.
Thus, knowing more about the signs of an unhealthy ISFP is important.
Signs of an Unhealthy ISFP
1. Passive-Aggressive
An unhealthy ISFP will be less open to conflict resolution or communication. Because of this, most conflicts go unresolved.
The ISFP will descend into passive-aggressiveness or silent treatment. This can go on for a long time. I once had an issue with an unhealthy ISFP. They outrightly refused to solve the problem and were passive-aggressive for 2 years.
By being passive-aggressive, unhealthy ISFP accumulates resentment.
2. Extremist/Self-Righteous
ISFPs lead with introverted feeling (Fi). When healthy, this makes ISFP empathetic and compassionate. When unhealthy, Fi causes a lot of problems.
One of these problems is rigidity. ISFPs become fixated on their values and opinions. They believe that their ideas or values are superior to all others.
Unhealthy ISFPs will judge or criticize people’s morals or values. This can make them unbearable.
3. Attachment Style
Unhealthy ISFPs are more likely to have an avoidant attachment style. They will find it harder to be dedicated in a relationship.
So, if your ISFP seems to be ghosting you after 2 months in a relationship, they’re probably unhealthy. The longer it goes, the more avoidant they’ll become.
4. Negative/Alignment Evil
Unhealthy ISFPs are pessimistic people. The problem is not just that they are negative. It’s that they feel strongly about their negative feelings.
This feeling extends to their friends or loved ones. For example, they can be paranoid about their friend’s new relationship or job. They won’t also hesitate to tell their friends how they feel.
This can lead to tension. Their tendency to keep grudges might make them seem evil.
5. Overly Sensitive
ISFPs are feelers. So, it’s normal for them to prefer calmer and kinder communication. Unhealthy ISFPs are different.
They tend to misinterpret people’s comments as harsh or negative. Because of this, they take offense at almost everything.
People walk on eggshells when having a conversation with them.
6. Extremely Impulsive
Unhealthy ISFPs are extremely impulsive. This is beyond normal impulsiveness. They make most decisions without thinking it through.
The problem is not actually making the decision. They tend to stick to it even when they are clearly wrong.
7. Selfish
This is another downside of the unhealthy Fi. Unhealthy ISFPs become selfish. They might say they care about others, but their actions say otherwise.
Their selfish nature will alienate them from their close friends.
How to Get Out of the ISFP Dark Side
Are you an unhealthy ISFP? Here are some ways to get out of the ISFP dark side.
1. Acceptance
The first step is to accept there’s a problem. This can be difficult because you feel strongly about your values or emotions.
Accepting there’s a problem will open up a path to improvement. It will also help you identify more avenues for self-development.
2. Accountability
If you’re struggling to stay healthy, having some form of accountability is a good idea. A good way of doing this is telling someone you respect to keep you in line.
That way, you’ll always know when you need to step up.
3. Learn More About Yourself
Learning more about yourself is essential for many reasons. First, it allows you to understand your tendencies and weaknesses.
By knowing your weaknesses, you’ll be able to identify your triggers. It also allows you to know the areas for improvement.
A good way to do this is to learn more about the MBTI. You should know what your enneagram type is. There’re a lot of resources to help you get started.
4. Getting Professional Help
If everything fails, you should seek professional help. Therapists and mental health experts are always ready to help you get better.
The sooner you get help, the better!
Commonly Asked Questions About the Unhealthy ISFP
What Do ISFPs Struggle With?
ISFPs typically struggle with criticism and perfectionistic tendencies. These traits overwhelm them when unhealthy.
Are ISFPs Prone to Depression?
ISFPs and INFPs are especially prone to depression. These two types are generally more sensitive and affected by the challenges they face.
What is the Biggest Fear of the ISFP?
ISFPs fear being trapped or stuck in a permanently bad situation. So, they usually take a lot of time before making a decision.
