Have you realized a fact that you see the world in a vastly different way from others? Are you aware that you absorb information and process them differently from all other humans in this world? Your entity and existence are dependent on your mental functioning and that’s where the role of cognitive functions comes in.
The 16 personalities’ cognitive functions describe the various psychological processes and mental abilities of Myers Briggs’s 16 personality types that determine their acquisition and manipulation of information, reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making.
In this think piece, we will elaborate on all the cognitive functions for all the types for your easy understanding.
16 Personalities Cognitive functions – theory in general
SUMMARY
Cognitive function is a broad head that describes all mental abilities such as learning, memory, information processing, thinking, problem solving, concept formation, as well as decision-making.
In Myers Briggs Type Inventory, we have 16 personality types. Each of these types has four cognitive functions that are arranged in a definite hierarchy as per their influence on the specific type. In this way, the four-letter combination of the types is framed. For example INTJ, ISFP, etc.
We cannot pick and choose these cognitive functions because they are innate psychological processes that govern our behavior and overall functioning in everyday life.
The Myers-Briggs typology is more complex than what it appears at first glance. Beyond the four-letter type abbreviations, the system also entails 8 cognitive functions that show how your internal processes work and relate to the world around you.
The functions determine the ways of interaction that you have with others, the nature of your belief system, and values. Overall, the cognitive functions portray the dynamic qualities of ‘you’ as an individual.
The concept of cognitive functions came into the limelight through the classic work of Carl Jung’s personality theory. Jung identified four cognitive functions. They are sensing/intuition, feeling/thinking. These functions are either directed inwards (introversion) or deflected to the outside world (extroversion). These functions are stacked in a hierarchy and this is known as functional stacking.
The functional stack has one dominant function and one auxiliary or supporting function that have maximum influence on the person’s personality makeup. These functions reveal all the secrets of how each person absorbs and processes information, decides on the choices, and thereby makes the ultimate decisions in life.
Katherine Briggs and Isabel Myers used Carl Jung’s concept as a framework or template for their personality research. They came up with the major four functions of Jung and added the introversion-extroversion dichotomy to each one of them separately.
To clarify more, Isabel Myers also showed that extroversion is not only about how outgoing and sociable the person is, but rather how they derive their mental energy for normal functioning. Extraverted functions are focused outside as the person remains immersed in the external world and derives their mental energy from socialization.
Contrary to this, introverted functions focus inside the person. It is more of self-reflection and being with oneself.
The 8 functions briefly
This led to the development of 8 cognitive functions of Myers-Briggs 16 personalities. The 8 functions are as follows:
1. Extraverted sensing (Se) – Acts on concrete data received from the environment. Places importance on here and now lives in the moments of life.
2. Introverted sensing (Si) – this function compares the present and past experiences, relies on the past, and keeps the sensory data for future use.
3. Introverted intuition (Ni) – this function believes in the consistency of ideas, and facts, and trusts the unconscious details that lie within oneself. Gut feeling is dominant.
4. Extroverted intuition (Ne) – Always see possibilities in the external world. Believes in external laws, rules, and ethics
5. Introverted thinking (Ti) – vivid thinking that occurs internally. Ideas and beliefs are assessed as per the internal value system.
6. Extroverted thinking (Te) – tries to find logic and consistency in the external world
7. Introverted feeling (Fi) – harmony of thoughts, feelings, and actions based on the core values of the person.
8. Extroverted feeling (Fe) – tends to have harmony with people in the external world. Interpersonal and societal values are held important.
Principles of cognitive functions
There are some principles of 16 personality’s cognitive functions that can be summed up in the following ways:
- There are 8 cognitive functions been focused either on the inner world (introversion) or on the external world (extroversion)
- Sensing/intuition are the perceiving functions (absorbing information and processing them as per introversion-extroversion preferences. Thinking/feeling are the judging functions relating to decision-making.
- Each person will have one perceiving function and one judging function. For example – in the INTJ type, N is the perceiving function and T is the judging function.
- The person will have one dominant function and one auxiliary function.
- The dominant functions can be either introverted or extroverted depending upon the type classifications.
- In introverted individuals, the dominant function will be introverted. Similarly, in extroverts, the dominant function is extroverted.
When you know the four-letter type that you have, you will also know the cognitive functions that determine your perceiving-judging abilities.
The cognitive functions for all the 16 personality types
In this section, we will elaborate on the four cognitive functions of each of the 16 types separately.
1. ENFJ personality type
The four cognitive functions are as follows:
1. Extraverted feeling (Fe) – dominant function
For an ENFJ, the dominant cognitive function is extraverted feeling (Fe). Therefore an ENFJ will always remain aware of the feelings of others. They will always remain aware of what others might be feeling in a situation. An ENFJ type is caring and empathic.
2. Introverted intuition (Ni) – auxiliary function
For an ENFJ, introverted intuition (Ni) is the auxiliary function. This function enables them to use their gut feelings in decision-making. Ni enables logical thinking that goes deep inside them. It also helps them to link various information received from the external world in a unified manner.
3. Extroverted sensing (Se) – tertiary function
The third and tertiary function for an ENFJ is extraverted sensing. When Se and Fe work together, it helps ENFJ form impressions about the outside world. They will be quick to notice changes in their surroundings.
4. Introverted thinking (Ti) – inferior function
ENFJs last function is introverted thinking. This function is less developed and thus ENFJs are not great at logic. They will remain engrossed in the feelings of others and cannot decide using facts and logic.
2. ENFP personality type
The cognitive functions that make up this type are discussed below:
1. Extroverted intuition (Ne) – dominant function
In an ENFP profile, extraverted intuition is the primary function. It is all powerful and helps them to navigate ideas and imaginations. Later on, it helps them draw inferences and seek future possibilities. Exploring ideas and speaking aloud these ideas is their favorite. ENFPs have excellent networking abilities. They prefer to look beyond the present time.
2. Introverted feeling (Fi) – auxiliary function
ENFPs’ decision-making is based on values and internal codes of conduct. They are value-oriented and decide on feelings that they believe to be authentic. Introverted feelers are ruled by their hearts. They are emotional by nature and cannot see others in pain.
3. Extroverted thinking (Te) – tertiary function
This function is less developed in an ENFP profile. Thus, they use less logic and more feelings in decision-making. They think emotionally and can make hasty decisions that they may repent later on.
4. Introverted sensing (Si) – inferior function
This is the least developed function and they struggle to sense information from their immediate surroundings. ENFPs may struggle to adjust to unfamiliar situations because they do not have an objective idea of how things operate in the real world.
3. ENTJ personality type
The ENTJ cognitive functions look like the following –
1. Extroverted thinking (Te) – dominant function
ENFJs are logical masterminds. Extroverted thinking allows for logical decision-making. They are deeply thoughtful, and efficient, and prefer logic over feelings in decision-making. This function makes them assertive and dominating in the social space.
2. Introverted intuition (Ni) – auxiliary function
This function enables them to rely on imagination, ideas, and insights. Sometimes, they may experience flashes of imagination to make things happen. This function also helps them to look for long-term goals.
3. Extraverted sensing (Se) – tertiary function
As this function is not well developed in an ENTJs profile, they struggle to appreciate sensuous experiences but prefer spontaneity, thrills, and merriment in social life. This function also makes them adventurous and energetic. ENTJs prefer routine but they are also inclined towards novel and creative endeavors.
4. Introverted feeling (Fi) – inferior function
ENTJs find it hard to express emotions. They may appear harsh and haughty even to the ones close to them. This function is poorly developed and thus they appear expressionless, opinionated, and controlling by nature.
4. ENTP personality type
In an ENTPs profile, the cognitive functions are arranged like the following.
1. Extroverted intuition (Ne) – Dominant function
ENTPs use their dominant function to experience new thrills and challenges in life. It makes them open-minded and hunt for new opportunities in life. They also brainstorm new ideas and are often found to exchange their ideas with others. The Ne function also helps them to jump into ideas and look for future possibilities that would be beneficial for them.
2. Introverted thinking (Ti) – auxiliary function
Ti impacts their decision-making abilities. They will prefer analyzing facts and details for decision-making. It allows them to understand situations and circumstances better by thinking about the pros and cons. They put stress on logical evidence in decision-making.
3. Extraverted feeling (Fe) – tertiary function
This function is poorly formed in their profile. Thus, they are not interested in knowing the subtle feelings of others. This can hamper their interpersonal relationships also. Sometimes, they may appear insensitive, haughty, and less empathic while sharing social space with others.
4. Introverted sensing (Si) – inferior function
In the ENTP profile, introverted sensing helps them to analyze and understand past patterns that have helped resolve a problem. They will often overlook the finer details of the present. This function is a weak spot in the ENTP profile, so they may struggle to live in the here and now and try to seek future opportunities based on flukes from the past.
5. ESFJ personality type
The cognitive functions of the ESFJ type look like the following –
1. Extraverted feeling (Fe) – dominant function
This dominant function enables them to react and respond to others’ feelings, opinions, and thoughts in the finest way. Due to its impact, ESFJs are kind, caring, and considerate as well.
2. Introverted sensing (Si) – auxiliary function
ESFJs use this function to understand people and situations deeply. They prefer to stay in the present moment and deal with concrete facts and ideas.
3. Extroverted intuition (Ne) – Tertiary function
As this function is less developed, ESFJs struggle to foresee future possibilities. Their intuition and gut feeling are less functional making them less likely to think about solutions inside their heads.
4. Introverted thinking (Ti) – inferior functions
ESFJs are by no way introverted thinkers. They cannot thrive in their heads for long and become restless. They never understand abstract ideas and theories that do not have practical relevance.
6. ESFP personality type
For an ESFP type, cognitive functions are somewhat like this –
1. Extroverted sensing (Se) – dominant function
This function helps them to stay grounded in the present. They work with facts and concrete information and always have an eye for detailed analysis. ESFPs are open-minded and seek creative opportunities in life because they are entertained by sensuous experiences.
2. Introverted feeling (Fi) – auxiliary function
An ESFP type gives importance to personal values. They are helpful and compassionate. This function helps them to nurture their softer side. They can feel the finer emotions of others and can feel the air in the room much more easily than others.
3. Extroverted thinking (Te) – tertiary function
ESFPs cannot organize their inner world. They are a little messy and unsystematic. Being a creative nudge they fail to stay organized. This function is poorly formed and as such, they struggle to think logically and to the point.
4. Introverted intuition (Ni) – inferior function
They cannot sort out abstract concepts. Having poor intuition leads to hasty decision-making. They may scatter while organizing everything and deciding things internally.
7. ESTJ personality type
The cognitive functions of the ESTJ personality type are as follows:
1. Extroverted thinking (Te) – Dominant function
ESTJs use this function to think logically and make decisions based on facts and evidence. Extroverted thinkers will always speak their minds clearly and prefer to look for proven ways of doing things. This function allows organization, structure, and meticulous behavior that ESTJs are born with.
2. Introverted sensing (Si) – Auxiliary function
This function helps them to organize things and sense logical meaning out of every experience. It helps in good memorization, and the ability to plan the work in a systematic manner.
3. Extroverted intuition (Ne) – Tertiary function
ESTJs use extroverted intuition to explore, invent, and innovate new ideas. Moreover, this function allows for critical thinking. They will not take things at face value but rather prefer to see things from varied perspectives.
4. Introverted feeling (Fi) – inferior function
This function renders them less emotional notes as compared to logic. It means ESTJs prefer to stay logical and not emotional while decision making. They are value-oriented and prefer justice and equality in the social structure.
8. ESTP personality type
ESTP cognitive functions are as follows:
1. Extroverted sensing (Se) – dominant function
ESTPs rely on their senses to explore and understand the outside world. They are social butterflies and can notice changes in their surroundings easily. These individuals love the thrill, adventure, and sensuous experiences. They are the go-getters who are always grounded in reality.
2. Introverted thinking – auxiliary function
This function allows for logical thinking in ESTPs. It also brings self-control and discipline in them. Due to its impact, ESTPs are always practical-minded and focused. Has the ability to organize everything in a logical manner.
3. Extroverted feeling (Fe) – tertiary function
This function helps an ESTP develop networking and social communication. Since it is less influential, ESTPs may fail to connect with the emotions of others.
4. Introverted intuition (Ni) – inferior function
This is the least developed function in their profile. Thus, they lack intuitive powers. They will struggle to draw inferences for future possibilities from the present or past leanings.
9. INFJ personality type
For an INFJ type, the functional stacking of functions is like this –
1. Introverted intuition (Ni) – dominant function
INFJs are insightful and deeply focused in everything they do. They will readily find out the deeper meanings of the situation. This dominant function helps an INFJ understand abstract patterns, and develop strategies inside their heads for effective problem-solving.
2. Extraverted feeling (Fe) – auxiliary function
When INFJs use this function, they quickly align themselves with the needs and emotions of others. They prefer to get into confrontations no matter what the situation is like; however, they stick to their beliefs and ideologies very strictly. This function also gives them strong values while dealing with others.
3. Introverted thinking (Ti) – tertiary function
Though this function is not strong in their profile, they will use it when they need to develop mind maps and know how things function in the real world. With this function, they will go into deeper layers of understanding so that they can use little logic in decision-making.
4. Extraverted sensing (Se) – inferior function
INFJs have poorly developed Se functions. Thus, they are inattentive to the details and prefer to see only the bigger picture. They are focused on the future and are sensitive to sensory overload. INFJs are unmindful of what is happening in the present.
10. INFP personality type
The cognitive functions of the INFP type are as follows:
1. Introverted feeling (Fi) – Dominant function
This function makes an INFP a morally strong, honest, and considerate person. Introverted feelers are compassionate and believe in emotional decision-making. They are driven by new opportunities and prefer to stay flexible to the ideas, opinions, and feelings of others.
2. Extroverted intuition (Ne) – auxiliary function
INFPs use their Ne function to explore new opportunities in the outside world. Analyzing the abstract data and finding connections between them is possible because of the Ne function. They hate routine tasks and prefer to thrive in new challenges and hardships so that they can become who they want to be.
3. Introverted sensing (Si) – tertiary function
INFPs use this function to remain focused inward so that they can think a lot about connecting the various dots that make the real world. They wish to understand the goodness that lies in nature and all the creations of nature.
4. Extroverted thinking (Te) – inferior function
INFPs use this function at the subconscious level. Due to its subtle impact, INFPs are factual and realistic and may struggle with expressing emotions to others. They cannot decide things logically and behave in pragmatic ways too often than what is actually required.
11. INTJ personality type
For an INTJ, the cognitive functions profile looks like the following –
1. Introverted intuition (NI) – dominant function
INTJs use this function to create patterns and ideas and imagining about various future possibilities. Their hunch feeling is strong and makes the ultimate decision for them. This function helps them to find unique solutions to problems.
2. Extraverted thinking (Te) – auxiliary function
Extraverted thinking helps them to develop order and structure in their immediate surroundings. They can make logical decisions by making precise choices that are to the point of the moment.
3. Introverted feeling (Fi) – tertiary function
Through this function, INTJs give value to human emotions though to a lesser degree. They are value-oriented people who place importance on fairness, and ethics in decision-making.
4. Extraverted sensing (Se) – inferior function
INTJs use this function to interact with their surroundings. As introverts, they may struggle to keep pace with too many social interactions.
12. INTP personality type
The cognitive functions of an INTP type are as follows:
1. Introverted thinking (Ti) – dominant function
INTPs use this function to organize their inner world. They are disciplined with a great sense of inner control. They are logical thinkers who will dive deep into everything they come across.
2. Extraverted intuition (Ne) – auxiliary function
They use this function to think about various future probabilities that can be used for making a better future. INTPs are logical thinkers who love to spend a lot of time in abstract reasoning.
3. Introverted sensing (Si) – tertiary function
INTPs use this function minimally. Thus, they are not lovers of material possessions and appear emotionally distant and unpredictable.
4. Extraverted feeling (Fe) – inferior function
INTPs are less emotional and cannot understand how others might be feeling at a given moment. They are less expressive emotionally and decide logically as always.
13. ISFJ personality type
The functional stack of an ISFJ appears like this –
1. Introverted sensing (Si) – dominant function
This function helps an ISFJ stay tuned to the sensory experiences. They are detail-oriented, prompt, and to the point with decision-making. They are focused inward with a dominant feeling tone.
2. Extraverted feeling (Fe) – auxiliary function
This function enables them to become aware of others’ feelings. They are warm, compassionate, kind, and generous. They’re socially gregarious, and committed to the social cause they are inclined to work for.
3. Introverted thinking (Ti) – tertiary function
ISFJs use this function to think about present problems and find novel solutions. They are slow thinkers and tend to judge a situation or person based on feelings and not on logic and rationality.
4. Extroverted intuition (Ne) – inferior function
ISFJs have less developed instincts. Thus, they cannot comprehend future possibilities. They cannot derive new meanings from ideas and patterns that are existing here and now.
14. ISFP personality type
The ISFP cognitive functions are:
1. Introverted feeling (Fi) – dominant function
INFPs are reserved and private in nature. They are not the ones to express their feelings openly. Their inner world is deep and creative. They never evaluate others critically and prefer not to be judged as well.
2. Extraverted sensing (Se) – auxiliary function
ISFPs are grounded and prefer to stay in the moment. They are present-focused and believe in solving real-time issues rather than thinking too much about future probabilities.
3. Introverted intuition (Ni) – tertiary function
ISFP are creative people. They have tons of ideas and imaginations at work every moment. So, introverted intuition helps them to organize their mental landscape as much as possible in a unified whole.
4. Extroverted thinking (Te) – inferior function
ISFP is poor at logical decision-making because they are ruled by their hearts. They are unable to visualize perspectives in the face of logic and facts because of poor extroverted thinking abilities.
15. ISTJ personality type
For an ISTJ type, the cognitive functions look like the one described below:
1. Introverted sensing (Si) – dominant function
ISTJs are not attention-seekers and prefer to process their sensory experiences internally. They are highly creative and prefer to focus on an inner world of rich ideas and imaginations.
2. Extraverted thinking (Te) – Auxiliary function
ISTJs will use this function efficiently in expressing their opinions and judgments about people and situations.
3. Introverted feeling (Fi) – tertiary function
ISTJs are less expressive as far as their feelings are concerned. Moreover, they are also not good at understanding the subtle emotions of people around them.
4. Extroverted intuition (Ne) – inferior function
ISTJs are present-focused. They are poor at future decision-making. They prefer to think and deal with ideas that have a present relevance.
16. ISTP personality type
In ISTPs cognitive function’s profile, the functional stack looks like this –
1. Introverted thinking (Ti) – dominant function
ISTPs are always logical and prefer objective evaluations of people and situations. They never resort to emotional backup stories to validate their objective decisions.
2. Extroverted sensing (Se) – auxiliary function
ISTPs are present-focused and prefer to use their sensory impressions for understanding situations as they appear. They are grounded in reality.
3. Introverted intuition (Ni) – tertiary function
ISTPs will sometimes use their gut feelings while making logical decisions. This function operates in hindsight.
4. Extroverted feeling (Fe) – inferior function
This function is less prominent and ISTPs will always struggle to understand the subtle feelings of others. They will struggle to operate in groups and may stay aloof from others.
To Sum Up
From the detailed discussion of the 16 personalities’ cognitive functions, it becomes clear that all the various types have different functional combinations that are either dominant or less developed as per their respective personality dynamics.
When you know your specific personality type, you will be able to understand why you behave the way you do. It’s all because of the cognitive that is functional hindsight that is making you who you are.
