How does INFP react to stress? (5 ways)

This blog post aims to answer the question, “How does INFP react to stress?” and explore the various dimensions of the Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality type named INFP that will help understand the answer. 

How does INFP react to stress?

INFPs react to stress in the following 5 ways – 

• INFPs are dominated by sentiments of individuality.
• INFPs become sensitive.
• INFPs enter the ‘doer’ mode.
• INFPs may shut down in other areas of their lives.
• INFPs do things that are out of character for them.

These 5 ways in which INFPs react to stress will be discussed in further detail below after taking a deeper look at what INFP means. 

Who is an INFP?

The INFP personality type was developed by Katharine Briggs and Isabel Myers, the authors of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI®). INFP stands for Introversion, iNtuition, Feeling, and Perceiving, which are four key personality qualities based on C.G. Jung’s work.

Each of the four letters of the INFP code represents a significant personality feature of the INFP personality type. 

INFPs are stimulated by alone time (Introverted), focus on ideas and concepts rather than facts and specifics (iNtuitive), base their decisions on feelings and values (Feeling), and like to be spontaneous and flexible rather than planned and structured (Perceiving).

Because of their empathetic idealism and gentle concern for others, the INFP personality type is often known as the “Healer.” The INFP is also known by the following nicknames:

• The Thoughtful Idealist (MBTI)
• The Mediator (16Personalities)

An INFP prefers an unstructured and free-spirited lifestyle. INFP is an introverted and ultra-creative Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality type. The INFP is sensitive, creative, and loyal to their values.

INFPs are creative idealists who are guided by their primary ideals and beliefs. A Healer who is preoccupied with possibilities; the actuality of the time is merely a fleeting concern. INFPs see the possibility of a brighter future and seek truth and purpose in their own unique way.

INFPs are sensitive, loving, and compassionate people who are highly concerned with their own and others’ personal progress. INFPs are individualistic and nonjudgmental, believing that each person must forge their own path. 

INFPs like spending time investigating their own ideas and ideals, and they gently encourage others to do the same. INFPs are creative and frequently artistic; they like discovering new ways to express themselves.   

INFP Personality Type Characteristics Are –

• INFPs are introverts who are quiet and reserved. INFPs find that being in social situations depletes their energy, thus they prefer to connect with a small number of close pals. While they like being alone, this should not be mistaken for timidity. Rather, it simply implies that INFPs get energy from alone time. INFPs must, on the other hand, devote energy to social circumstances.

• INFPs rely on intuition and are more concerned with the overall picture than the finer points of a situation. INFPs can be quite thorough about things that are important to them or tasks they are working on, yet they tend to overlook little or insignificant details.

• INFPs value personal sentiments above everything else and their actions are affected more by these concerns than by objective data.

• INFPs prefer to keep their choices open when it comes to making decisions. INFPs frequently put off making key judgments in case the circumstance changes. The majority of judgments are made based on personal ideals rather than reasoning.

What are these 5 ways in which INFPs react to stress?

INFPs are dominated by sentiments of individuality.

Under stress, INFPs are often dominated by sentiments of individuality, causing them to focus only on their own objectives and wants. They will most likely prefer to work and accomplish assignments alone, avoiding friends and family.

INFPs loathe crowds as well. INFPs are inclined to get stressed out by large groups of strangers. INFPs are prone to avoid situations with large groups of people as much as possible since they already prefer to be alone and might be sensitive to how others see them.

INFPs become sensitive.

They may also be sensitive to your decisions and strike out at people who criticise their strategy in any manner. Because INFPs are naturally sensitive, they may be harmed more easily than others by harsh criticism. 

INFPs are prone to taking negative comments personally and feeling angered or attacked as a result of it. INFPs, who are optimists at heart, may become agitated by the negative attitudes of others. 

INFPs may be pulled down if someone around them complains a lot or sees the negative side of circumstances.

INFPs enter the ‘doer’ mode.

If they are under stress for an extended period of time, they may enter “doer” mode and become completely focused on accomplishing things.

They may become unusually opinionated, order others about, or become engrossed in the details of a project. To go back on track, they’ll need to reconnect with themselves and what’s important to them.

Inflexible or meaningless routines are also prone to cause stress in INFPs. They despise rigid timetables and prefer to make things up as they go. Being confined to a routine may make them feel as though they have no independence, which will sap their natural vitality.

INFPs may shut down in other areas of their lives.

When INFPs are faced with unpleasant or exhausting responsibilities, they may shut down in other areas of their lives. When an INFP can, they should endeavour to engage in activities that keep them engaged and enthusiastic. 

Avoiding extra draining chores, learning to communicate when something is stressing them out, and doing enough of things that interest them will assist INFPs to avoid being unduly upset or weary.

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.

INFPs do things that are out of character for them.

When INFPs are under the grasp of their inferior function, they will do things that are out of character for them. Suddenly, Extraverted Thinking becomes the only approach the INFPs can think of to solve an issue.

As a result, they may become consumed with resolving imagined difficulties and righting perceived wrongs. They may express angry thoughts or participate in destructive fantasies directed at others they believe are the cause of their sorrow.

They may also use cutting sarcasm and cynicism, which is out of character for their normally understanding demeanour. They may become fiercely

critical of others and themselves, focusing on all the “evidence” required to validate their overwhelming sense of failure.

They will feel lost and bewildered, and they will try to find rational solutions to their difficulties, but they will feel as if they are seeking in the dark. They may become unable to access their intuition or feeling abilities, getting “stuck” and unable to comprehend information, thoughts, or ideas.

An INFP who is stressed out is not their natural, balanced self. INFPs are typically very understanding, kind, and patient. When stressed, INFPs feel exceedingly confused, out of control, and lost.

Following that, they may feel deep regret for their reaction and experience; at that time, it is critical for their loved ones to offer them acceptance, kindness, and the sort of compassion INFPs are known for showing others.

Conclusion – 

This blog post answered the question, “How does INFP react to stress?” and reviewed the features and functions of the introverted and extremely inventive Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality type named INFP to help determine how INFPs react to stress. Please feel free to reach out to us with any questions or comments you may have.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): How does INFP react to stress?

How do INFPs act when stressed?

When an INFP experiences stress, they become cynical, sad, angry, and prone to intense self-doubt.

What happens when an INFP experiences stress?

INFPs prefer someone who will listen and sympathise in difficult situations rather than someone who will try to fix the problem. INFPs typically feel guilty after having a “grip” reaction, therefore having a buddy who can be empathetic and simply listen without responding or judging is essential.

Can an INFP work under pressure?

INFPs despise feeling pressured because they impose enough pressure on themselves. When faced with a high-stress circumstance that necessitates a quick choice, the INFP may feel overwhelmed. They will investigate whichever option makes the most sense and will strive to follow their instincts.

Which personality type is more prone to stress?

The Type A personality type’s conduct predisposes individuals to stress-related ailments such as CHD, high blood pressure, and so on. Things in their environment are more likely to trigger their “flight or fight” reaction in such persons.

What is the dark side of INFP?

INFPs can be overly sensitive jerks, making a huge deal out of everything simply because they can feel even the most insignificant things extremely strongly. They may also be exceedingly gloomy (contrary to the popular notion) and bring down the mood of others when they are sad.

What’s the dark side of INFP?

Unfortunately, INFP’s dark side starts within their critical beliefs which then amplifies to the real world. When pushed into a rut, destructive INFPs take revenge with severity and without any remorse. They become insensitive and indifferent about other people’s feelings.

References –

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Storm, S. 12 Stress-Busting Techniques for INFPs. Psychology Junkie. (2016, August 2). Retrieved from https://www.psychologyjunkie.com/2016/08/02/12-stress-busting-techniques-infps/

INFP Stress, The Empath Type. Crystal. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.crystalknows.com/personality-type/infp/stress

How does an INFP behave when completely stressed? Quora. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.quora.com/How-does-an-INFP-behave-when-completely-stressed

Laura. Stress Relief for Mediators (INFPs). 16 Personalities. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.16personalities.com/articles/stress-relief-for-mediators-infps

INFP: MBTI® personality profile. The Myers-Briggs Company. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://eu.themyersbriggs.com/en/tools/MBTI/MBTI-personality-Types/INFP

Stafford, S. INFP Under Stress (Shadow Mode): The INFPs Unhealthy Dark Side. (2019, June 9). Retrieved from https://personalitygrowth.com/infp-under-stress-shadow-mode-the-infps-unhealthy-dark-side/

INFPs And Stress. Team Technology. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.teamtechnology.co.uk/personality/types/infp/stress/

Chaudhary, N. 3 Fun Activities That Will Help INFPs Instantly Relieve Stress. Introvert, Dear. (2020, December 8). Retrieved from https://introvertdear.com/news/fun-activities-that-will-help-infps-instantly-relieve-stress/

Champion, L. The Best Ways to De-Stress If You’re an INFP (aka an Introverted Mediator). 2018, September 27). Retrieved from https://www.purewow.com/wellness/infp-stress-relief-tips