In this guide, we will answer the question: Are ENFP Manipulative? We also delved into looking at other interesting aspects of the ENFP personality type.
ENFP stands for Extraversion(E), Intuition (N), Feelings (F), and Perception (P). It is one of the sixteen personality types of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI).
Are ENFP Manipulative?
The ENFP person can be manipulative on certain occasions.
The ENFP Manipulation
To manipulate loosely translates to “controlling someone or something to your own advantage” (dictionary.cambridge.org). Each of us is capable of manipulating a person or situation. The extent to which we do this will differ from person to person. In certain personality types, manipulative tendencies are likely to be more common. Further, the way they influence a person or situation for their own advantage will also differ. Additionally, each of us is prone to be manipulated. Different personality types may cope with manipulation differently. In the following section, we will delve into understanding manipulation with respect to the ENFP personality type.
ENFP persons are generally considered to be kind, thoughtful, and empathic. However, despite this, they may show manipulative tendencies. In general, the ENFP person does not like hearing a “no”. They are likely to use manipulation as a means to get what they want. The ENFP person is very receptive to the emotions of others. They are capable of playing with the emotions of others, influencing them in their direction. These manipulative tendencies are more commonly seen in unhealthy/immature ENFP persons. Although, mature/healthy ENFP persons are also likely to manipulating others sometimes. They tend to be more aware of how their actions might influence others. Their actions might be subtle or might be evidently problematic. However, most ENFP persons are unlikely to do something that will hurt or disappoint others. ENFP persons are generally considered to be kind and thoughtful individuals. Therefore, the degree to which manipulative tendencies manifest across the ENFP personality type will also differ!
When it comes to conflict, the ENFP person finds themselves in an unpleasant spot. They do not like conflict. Hence, they might use their manipulative abilities to manipulate the situation. They do not want chaos. Hence, they might try to ensure things appear smooth. The ENFP manipulation is not always done with the intent to hurt someone. However, they may employ it for selfish means.
The ENFP tends to make use of their emotional side to manipulate people. They are likely to play into another person’s emotions as a means of coercing them in a certain direction. They use guilt and emotional manipulation. This may be more common in immature ENFP individuals. However, this is also seen in healthy/ mature ENFP individuals. The ENFP is stubborn in nature. When they truly want something, they will go after it. They are unlikely to step back. Sometimes they might make people feel guilty or bad about something. In turn, they are likely to act in a way that will fix the situation. They might also act hurt and disappointed in the process of doing so. Individuals who are empathizing and giving, are likely to be susceptible to this aspect of the ENFP personality.
Despite their largely emotional side, the ENFP person has a logical undertone to their thinking. Sometimes they are pushed to harness the function of Extraverted Thinking (Te). This allows them to pay attention to the minute and finer details in a situation. Generally, they tend to focus on the larger picture instead of the details. However, drawing forth from the abilities of the function of Extraverted Thinking (Te) enables the ENFP person to recall the smaller details and information. They tend to use this to sway a person in a certain direction. The function of Extraverted Thinking (Te) coupled with the function of Extraverted Intuition (Ne) is often used by the ENFP person while trying to manipulate someone. They are more likely to use this when someone does not pay attention to them. They will incorporate facts and entails that others may have overlooked in a situation.
At the Receiving End
ENFP persons can also be at the receiving end of manipulation. When an ENFP truly loves someone, they tend to ignore their shortcomings. Even if the ENFP person is aware that they are being taken advantage of by someone they love and trust, they might find it difficult to completely accept the idea. When they place their love and trust in someone, they truly believe they will not be hurt. They expect the other person will behave in the same manner. They find it difficult to accept the fact that they are being taken advantage of by the person they trust. Sometimes, they might intentionally choose to turn a blind eye to it. They are more likely to identify manipulation when it comes from someone a stranger as opposed to someone they love.
ENFP – Overview
The ENFP personality has a way around people. They are empathic individuals who are able to experience the feelings of another person from within their frame of reference. They harbor a genuine concern for people. They will readily step to motivate a person, offering courage and support. Along with a deep desire to bring about change, they are also able to visualize possibilities for the future. They will always show a concern for the people they lead, believing in each person’s potential. This essentially makes them adept at leadership positions.
They are constantly seeking new stimuli. This keeps life exciting for them. Hence, they tend to get distracted readily. They are extremely creative individuals. They will be able to conjure up many ideas for the future. However, they might struggle to see it through fruition. Their dislike for routine finds them approaching life with a flexible stance. They will grapple with leading an organized life and often tend to give in to procrastination.
Strengths
The ENFP person is warm and caring. They harbor a genuine concern for people. They are deeply empathic individuals, who tend to be aware of how someone is feeling. Consequently, they thrive in atmospheres that allow them to empower others. They are eager to bring about a change in society. The ENFP person has very good communication skills. Their inner world is replete with ideas, theories, and a wild imagination. This allows them to be very creative in different areas of their life. They are spontaneous, ready to go about without a plan at hand. They are extremely fun to be around. They value their relationships and tend to be very loyal to their partners.
Weaknesses
The ENFP person struggles with overthinking. There is always a lack of surety looming over their decisions. They tend to go back and forth, analyzing their action or decision. This can create many problems for the ENFP. They are unlikely to be organized. Consequently, they find themselves struggling to maintain a routine. This might lead to procrastination. They do not work too well with deadlines. If they find themselves bogged down by work, they can become easily stressed.
If you’re facing this, it may be a good idea to seek the help of a therapist or other mental health professional. You can find a therapist at BetterHelp who can help you learn how to cope and address it.
Frequently Asked Questions: Are ENFP Manipulative?
How rare is an ENFP?
ENFP is a rare personality type. They make for 8.1% of the US population (psychologyjunkie.com).
Can ENFP-ENFP date each other?
This relationship has the potential to be a very satisfying relationship for both partners. Although, both partners are likely to bring an element of competition into the relationship (thoughtcatalog.com)
Are ENFPs clingy?
The ENFP person is very affectionate. When they truly care for someone, they do not shy away from showing their love and affection. In the process, they might be clingy sometimes (personalitygrowth.com)
What makes an ENFP angry?
The ENFP person tends to get angry when people behave without carrying for others. Further, they are likely to get angered by injustice (personalitygrowth.com).
References
ENFP Manipulation: How ENFPs Deal With Manipulation and Coercion
