Understanding Introverted Feeling- The Fi Function

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Cognitive functions give you a clearer description of your MBTI type. One of these cognitive functions is the introverted feeling (Fi).

This article discusses the introverted feeling function in closer detail.

What is Introverted Feeling?

Introverted feeling, also known as Fi, is a judging function. Fi helps its users make decisions based on their values, principles, and feeling. Thus, Fi is a subjective function. It is also internally focused.

The role of Fi is determined primarily by its position on the user’s function stack. For Fi-doms, this function is used to interpret data and make decisions based on that data. The cognitive function that follows Fi also influences the outcome.

For example, INFP uses Fi as their primary function. Ne backs it up. Thus, when external information has been filtered through Fi, Ne allows INFPs to express their feelings clearly and create new ideas if they approve.

For ISFP, extroverted sensing (Se) is their auxiliary function. Thus, ISFPs are moved to take action once a decision/judgment has been passed on the information collected.

All MBTI types use eight functions. However, four functions are more dominant. If you use Fi, it should be among your first four functions. For example, INFPs use Fi as their dominant function, while ESTJ uses Fi as their inferior function.

Signs That You Use the Fi Function

1.   You’re Impulsive

Now, Fi is not an impulsive function. However, as stated earlier, it’s followed by either Ne or Se if you’re a Fi-dom.

These two cognitive functions are known for their impulsiveness and bright but scattered ideas. Thus, Fi might conclude and act on it based on these two functions.

The problem is that Fi is subjective. The addition of Ne and Se can lead to very reckless decisions.

Thus, Fi-doms struggle with rushed actions and not thinking things through. The same applies to ENFPs and ESFPs (types with Fi as their auxiliary function).

2.   You Stick to Your Values

Fi is concerned about internal harmony. They want their actions and decisions to align with their values and beliefs.

Thus, Fi users usually know their values and stick to them regardless of people’s opinions. So, expect Fi-doms to be disciplined people.

They might also be good at setting boundaries. This makes them less likely to be people-pleasers.

3.   You Like a Good Adventure

Their auxiliary functions love a good adventure. So, if you’re a Fi-dom, going on adventures and trying new things appeals to you.

You want to travel, taste new food, or experiment in the bedroom. Fi comes alive in those moments. However, these things must match your values.

4.   You are Less Interested in Group Harmony

Fi users are focused on internal harmony. This does not mean they don’t care about how others feel. It just means that they give their feelings priority.

Thus, Fi-doms can go ahead with their idea or plans even when others don’t approve. As far as they feel happy and believe they are doing the right thing, they are contented.

5.   Fiercely Independent

This follows the last point. Because of their focus on internal harmony, they remain independent. They want to do things their way and make their own decisions.

They will resist any attempt to control their actions. By doing this, Fi users protect themselves and their values from external influence.

6.   A Tad Stubborn

As stated earlier, they want to take control of their lives and stick to their values. This might mean resisting any efforts to change their perspectives.

To others, they might seem stubborn and rigid. To Fi users, they are simply doing what they believe is right.

7.   You Have a Private Side

There’s a side to Fi-doms that almost no one gets to see. This side captures their intense emotions.

They might find it difficult to express their emotions. Some of the best musicians and writers are fi-doms.

What MBTI Types Use the Fi Function?

Cognitive StackMBTI Type
DominantINFP and ISFP
AuxiliaryENFP and ESFP
TertiaryINTJ and ISTJ
InferiorESTJ and ENTJ

As you can see above, eight MBTI types use the Fi function. However, its position on their function stack determines how much each type relies on this cognitive function.

Commonly Asked Questions About Introverted Feeling Function

Introverted Feeling vs. Extroverted Feeling- What’s the Difference?

The difference between Fe and Fi is its focus. While Fe is focused on group harmony, Fi is focused on internal harmony.

Thus, Fe prioritizes the group’s needs and wants, while personal wants are a priority for Fi. Click that link to learn more about the differences between Fe and Fi.

How Does an INTJ Use Fi?

Fi is the tertiary function of the INTJ. Thus, INTJ uses it to reinforce their carefully measured and verifiable conclusion on collected data.

So, INTJs hold on tightly to what they believe is logically correct.

What’s it Like Being a Fi-Dom?

Fi-doms are in touch with their emotions and values. It is their number one priority. Their Fi filter everything they do.

Because of their attachment to their values, they might be internally judgemental.

How Does INFP Use Fi?

INFPs use Fi as their primary function. Thus, they are Fi-doms.

4 COMMENTS

  1. This post is incredible! I love it~ keep making lovely content, I absolutely adore your take on the cognitive functions!

    Do you strongly lean on the shadow function theory where we can use and have access to all 8 (as in we can utilize or have some form usage opposite cognitive preferences although underhandedly and that we generally prefer one over the other) or that you believe we only use 4 of the Jungian processes (people can learn to emulate the opposite functions they lack and it’s improbable to use the same process with opposite orientation, and therefore we can only access and grow within our 4 function stack)

    • Hello Kate,

      I believe it’s possible to use all 8, but very unlikely. Most people mimic the other functions but never really access them. That is my opinion. I believe we are better-served learning and optimizing our core functions.

  2. Thanks for clarifying! Is there any proof that people can only access their 4 functions — I’m curious and really wanted to know more as an NF type

  3. And I strongly believe we all only use and access our 4 functions no more no less, however I can see the shadow function theory is plausible now that I look at it from another angle — for example a bold or a gutsy Fe dominant appearing to mimic or resemble Fi making it seem like they’re an EXFP — and I’ve realized Si isn’t solely on memory there’s SPs or NJs who remember a lot of things than given credit for…and that what people remember varies on life experience and cognitive function, I do agree that Si has a knack for remembering concrete sensory information since their need is to interalize it rather than experiencing it and move on like a strong Se user… and people attribute that everyone has Ni somehwere wether it’s their main 4 or the opposite stack is probably because that we all have hunches to some degree and predicting the future can be a skill that types can learn but Ni is more abstract or more concerned with the overall idea of something or the meaning and theme behind it…

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