INFP-A vs INFP-T (Assertive vs. Turbulent Mediator)

In this article, we will look at the two distinct subtypes of the INFP personality type. This article makes a detailed comparison between the two subtypes, from friendships to relationships and in the workplace.

INFP-A vs. INFP-T

INFPs are classified into two subtypes: 

INFP-A and INFP-T, based on how they respond to circumstances and how confident they are in their capabilities. Although the INFP personality type already has distinctive features, there are differences in the attributes of the two subtypes in different settings.

Here is what INFP-A and INFP-T mean:

• INFP-A is the Assertive Mediator
• INFP-T is the Turbulent Mediator

INFP-A vs. INFP-T In Friendships

Although both subtypes are curious about people and their feelings, turbulent types give people’s views far more importance than assertives. This may cause them to check in on their pals more frequently and inquire about their opinions and feelings than INFP-As.

Assertive types who are bold and self assured are hardly swayed by other people’s opinions and are more autonomous than turbulent types.

Because of their highly independent nature, they may be less likely to get help and receive helpful input from friends than tumultuous types, who might just consider it simpler to contact others and inquire for advice.

INFP-A vs. INFP-T In Relationships

While INFPs are typically great listeners, INFP-Ts are more likely to seek out other people’s viewpoints and perspectives. This characteristic allows them to listen more effectively than their assertive counterparts i.e. INFP-A’s.

Apart from listening, there is a significant difference between the two subtypes when it relates to conveying feelings. Although it is common for INFPs to channel their emotions internally, turbulent types have a better time expressing their feelings than assertive ones.

Assertives are much more inclined to keep their emotions hidden or suppressed. This trait may cause issues in INFP-A relationships.

The INFP-A’s upbeat personality leads them to believe that all is well. This could lead to them overlooking and ignoring important elements in the relationship, making it difficult to recognise concerns.

INFP-A vs. INFP-T In The Workplace

INFPs work hard, particularly when the mission of their profession aligns with their beliefs and principles. INFP-Ts, on the other hand, are more prone to be troubled by their idealistic nature.

They are much more critical regarding their job and productivity than more assertive counterparts, so they’re more prone to set extremely high objectives for themselves.

Both subtypes have a strong work ethic, but the INFP-T who is more critical of themself may put in more effort to overcome potential shortcomings or deficiencies. Turbulent personalities are also more dissatisfied than their assertive counterparts.

This, combined with an INFP’s idealism, motivates INFP-Ts to take measures. This will not, however, imply that Assertive mediators are any less idealistic. They’re just more confident. This characteristic gives them the ability to motivate and inspire others in the workplace.

INFP-A Strengths

• This type’s confident demeanour, combined with their upbeat attitude, allows them to remain calm in the face of adversity. Nevertheless, this may present issues, particularly if the INFP-A doesn’t really take these hurdles seriously enough, causing difficulties to accumulate over time.
• INFP-As have lower regret levels than their INFP counterparts. This doesn’t really imply that they are unconcerned. They are, on the other side, better at understanding and recognising their faults and failings, as well as letting them go.
• INFP-As are those who see the world from a positive perspective. Even when they are cognizant of what is going on around them, they see the good in individuals and situations alike. They are a great source of motivation and inspiration because of their positivity.

INFP-T Strengths

• Although idealism is one of INFPs’ key characteristics, turbulent types are more inclined than assertives to feel overwhelmed by their ideals and principles. INFP-Ts are self-aware and goal-oriented, even to the extent of being overly critical of themselves.
• INFPs are known as “mediators” because of their compassion and ability to relate emotionally with others. INFP-Ts, on the other hand, are better at using this feature than INFP-As.
• INFP-T’s are also said to cry more frequently than their Assertive counterparts. And while it may appear to be a sign of fragility, it could simply be the outcome of being hyper-aware of their complex emotional reality.
• While being sensitive has its drawbacks, an INFP-T uses their excellent understanding to grow. They seek to improve their personal shortcomings by using their ideals as a filter. When they are unsatisfied with themselves, their job, or their circumstances, they do the same thing. Their discontent motivates them to take action.

INFP-A Weaknesses

• Both subtypes are reserved and prefer to listen to others rather than communicate. Assertives, on the other hand, are more guarded. INFP-As may have a harder time contacting others and asking for aid and help since they are so self-assured and confident.
• INFP-As are conscious of their flaws and limitations, but choose to look at the positive aspects of their personalities. Rather than letting these dark thoughts stay, they quickly dismiss them. This may lead to an inclination to pay less heed to people’s comments and suggestions than is truly required.
• Since one of the most typical INFP flaws is a less eye for detail, INFP-As’ assertiveness and bolnessd can cause them to concentrate less on the outcomes of their work. Their inclination not to deal with things which do not concern them, or even their prior decisions and actions, can cause this subtype to miss out on specifics, such as areas to work on or issues that need to be fixed, making them more laid-back than their Turbulent counterparts.

INFP-T Weaknesses

• INFP-Ts have a tendency to overthink and ruminate on previous mistakes, actions, and sometimes even criticism and comments from others. This is exacerbated by INFPs’ powerful emotions, which can lead to feelings of overload. They are likely to be significantly influenced by their anxious thoughts, rather than being overpowered by external factors.
• The INFP’s gift of increased sensitivity with their own as well as others’ feelings can lead to excessive self-criticism. INFP-Ts’ inclination to assist and satisfy others makes them more sceptical and careful of their actions and endeavors, particularly if they have high ideals and perfectionist tendencies.
• This propensity to be overly critical of oneself and insecure is a key consideration when it comes to INFP congruence at the job and in love and relationships.
• INFP-Ts are more prone to think about and listen to others than INFP-As. While this is good, their desire to impress others may lead them to place too much emphasis on other people’s opinions. This could lead to an increase in pessimism and self-doubt, which INFP-Ts are more susceptible to.

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.

INFP-A vs. INFP-T Emotions

The Feeling personality trait guides mediators in their choices. They opt for an approach that promotes empathy and concern for others. However, research demonstrates that Assertive and Turbulent Mediators have quite different ways of dealing with their feelings and relating to others.

Turbulent Mediators are more likely than their Assertive counterparts to have overtly displayed emotions. At first look, crying more than others may not appear to be a positive thing.

63% of Turbulent Mediators describe themselves as prone to crying “often to very often,” compared to 28% of Assertive Mediators.

“CRYING” SURVEY

Knowing how to communicate emotions might help you relate to the sentiments of others. Understanding may be improved with experience. Discussing similar experiences might boost the likelihood of compassionate listening.

90% of Turbulent Mediators say they often feel regret, compared to 56% of Assertive Mediators.

“REGRET: GENERAL ATTITUDES” SURVEY

Assertive persons, particularly Assertive Mediators, are frequently mistakenly branded as arrogant. Self-importance isn’t always a trait shared by all assertive people. 

They may appear to be less engaged at times than their more passionate Turbulent counterparts. They have less regrets in their life and are less prone to repent or feel sorry for their actions.

INFP-A vs. INFP-T Managing Stress

87% of Assertive Mediators say they feel confident to face day-to-day difficulties, compared to 48% of Turbulent Mediators.

“HANDLING STRESS” SURVEY

Assertive Mediators may devote a lot of energy to their humanitarian aims since they are motivated by optimism and self-assurance. These people are typically adept at instilling optimism and encouragement.

However, a practise of covering everything with a positive assessment might obscure areas that require development. People very rarely pay attention to the things they dismiss. 

Whereas Turbulent Mediators may demand too much of themselves, Assertive Mediators may ask much less if there are issues lurking behind the surface of things being OK.

Conclusion

In this article, we looked at the two distinct subtypes of the INFP personality type. This article makes a detailed comparison between the two subtypes, from friendships to relationships and in the workplace.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What does INFP-T mean?

INFP-T stands for Turbulent Mediator.

Mediators are peaceful, intimate, free spirits who see life as a never-ending set of idealistic possibilities that must be realised. Wherever they go, they normally strive to get along with others and foster peace.

Are INFPs manipulative?

INFPs, like all other personality types, are skillful in manipulation and have their own strategies for using it. In order to get what they want, a stable INFP is more likely to use less negative or extreme methods of manipulation, while a less mature INFP may use more extreme methods.

Who are some famous INFP-T personalities?

Here is a list of some widely known INFP-T personality types:

• Søren Kierkegaard
• Vincent van Gogh
• Virginia Woolf 
• Lady Diana
• Heath Ledger

References

Assertive Mediator (INFP-A) vs. Turbulent Mediator (INFP-T)

INFP- A (Assertive) and INFP-T (Turbulent) Personalities Compared In-Depth