SJ Longthorne

Cognitive functions. The biggest difference between Te/Ti/Fe/Fi is not the T/F head-heart distinction, but actually the E/I. An "I", whether F or T, will stand up for their beliefs, but an "E" will sacrifice them. It's then just whether those beliefs prioritize feelings or logic.

Looking at Grant's work on ambiverts and the studies around general population levels of E/I, what would you say the people in the middle are most likely to do?

It's a spectrum, but personally I believe that the e and i in reference to cognitive function has very little to do with social energy, as the terms are more commonly used. So for the purpose of discussion, I'll set sociability aside.

I'm an INFJ, which is to say I possess dominant Ni and auxiliary Fe. If we acknowledge that I/E is a spectrum, that means I have an ENFP side, since that would be dominant Ne and auxiliary Fi. And that actually feels very true for me.

Talking specifically about the judging functions, my comfort place is (and will probably always be) to defer to the group, to offer my cheek for a slap if it means ultimate harmony. But I won't always do that. Because I am not just my two most-used traits.

To give an even more concrete example... I fell out with a friend last year. My immediate impulse was to roll over, to invite criticism, to do whatever it took to repair the relationship, even if it meant questioning my own reality and perception of events. I gaslit myself.

As time passed, I used the reassurance from better friends to rely more on my less prominent Fi side. I developed the bravery, confidence and self-respect to confront that friend and stand up for myself. To give ground where it was earned, to be humble where I had messed up...