ISFJ vs ISTJ (5 fundamental differences)
By
PsychReel
In this blog, we will discuss the differences between the ISFJ and ISTJ. Additionally, we will explore the meaning of ISFJ and ISTJ and discuss their characteristics.
The differences between ISFJs and ISTJs
The following are the fundamental differences between the ISFJ and ISTJ:
- Biased vs.Objective
- Tolerant vs. Intolerant
- Defender vs. Inspector
- Sensitive vs. Insensitive
- Relating with people
Biased vs. Objective
The ISFJ whose values are centered around people and how they feel regardless of the lack of practicality. As a result, they tend to make decisions and choices that are biased.
They are concerned about how their choices affect other people. They are also concerned about what others will think of them and may throw objectivity out the window to do what pleases others. They get blinded by their emotions and fail to see the logical options available to them.
In contrast, the ISTJ is very pragmatic and objective when it comes to making decisions. They are not swayed by emotions or what others think or feel about their decisions. They follow what is the best logical choice and makes the most sense. Practicality and efficiency are more important than pleasing people. They are very objective people who focus on achieving their goals at all costs.
Tolerant vs. Intolerant
Though both personalities are Judging, the ISFJ is more tolerant and understanding of people. They can bear with difficult characters and incompetent people a little better than the ISTJ as they value harmony and peace.
The ISTJ unfortunately is a no-nonsense person who cannot tolerate difficult and uncooperative people. They value efficiency more than harmony and will therefore shut down or get rid of incompetent people very quickly as they do not like drawbacks and having their time wasted.
Defender vs. Inspector
The ISFJ is also known as the Defender and they do just that. They have a tendency to protect and help people especially those who are weak and vulnerable.
They are drawn to careers that offer opportunities to do humanitarian or social work such as Medicine, Psychology, and Journalism.
In contrast, the ISTJ is known as the inspector and as such, they are people who are gifted at management and supervisory work.
They are consistent and intelligent people who are able to flawlessly execute projects and at the same time get people to work and comply with orders.
They are drawn to careers that offer opportunities to lead and think on behalf of others. These include careers in management, technology, mathematics, and sciences such as economics, engineering, and information technology.
They are also great managers and often take up leadership positions as supervisors, monitoring and evaluation officers, and project managers.
Sensitive vs. Insensitive
The ISFJ is a Feeler and is therefore responsive and sensitive to the emotions of others and their own. They are therefore quite diplomatic and understanding when speaking to people.
They are in touch with their emotions and can process and understand what they mean.
The ISTJ is a Thinker and they are therefore emotionally detached which makes them insensitive to their emotions and those of others. They blunt straight-talkers who do not notice when they have hurt people with their words.
They ignore their emotions and do what they feel needs to be done. This is usually logical action directed at solving problems or achieving efficiency.
Relating with people
The ISFJ is considered to be the most outgoing introvert on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. They easily make friends, engage in conversations, and can easily connect with people. They have a strong sense of community and family and want to keep their loved ones close.
The ISTJ on the other hand is not so adept at dealing with people. Their cold and ever-serious face tends to scare people off. They also value family and community but have a hard time verbally expressing their love for the people they love.
They are not very interested in social interaction and resultantly have few or no friends.
The ISFJ and ISTJ personalities
ISTJ:
The ISTJ (Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, and Judging) is one of the 16 personality types on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI).
The ISTJ spends a lot of time alone (Introverted), is mainly drawn to facts, evidence, and details over theories and beliefs (Sensing), make decisions by methods of critical analysis and logical reasoning (Thinking) and likes to weigh things against each other (Judging).
ISFJ:
ISFJ stands for Introversion, Sensing, Feeling, and Judging. It is one of the 16 personality types on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI).
ISFJs usually come across as shy, quiet, and reserved. They however open up to their trusted close friends and friends.
Their Feeling function makes them very sensitive and emotional, they are however capable of remaining calm during difficult situations.
The traits of both ISFJs and ISTJs
ISFJ traits:
- ISFJs are people-orientated
- They direct their attention to the needs of others
- They generally look for the best in people
- The ISFJs place high importance on harmony and cooperation
- They are conflict avoidant
- The ISFJ wants to meet the needs of others.
- An ISFJ is duty focused
- They adhere to traditions
- They enjoy routines
- They desire clear instructions
- The ISFJ will naturally focus on the present and not be interested in future possibilities
- They are hesitant to accept or implement changes
ISTJ traits:
● They are earnest
● They are very thorough
● They are very routine-oriented
● Have a no-nonsense attitude
● They do their tasks coherently by scheduling all activities carefully
● They are very loyal and devoted
● They are introverts and so they enjoy being alone
Conclusion
This blog discussed the differences between the ISFJ and ISTJ. Additionally, it explored the meaning of ISFJ and ISTJ and discussed their characteristics.
The following are the fundamental differences between the ISFJ and ISTJ:
- Biased vs.Objective
- Tolerant vs. Intolerant
- Defender vs. Inspector
- Sensitive vs. Insensitive
- Relating with people
If you’ve enjoyed ”ISFJ vs ISTJ”, you should take a look at ”ISFJ vs ISFP” too.
Thank you for reading this blog. Leave a comment in the comment section below
Frequently Asked Questions: ISFJ vs. ISTJ
Does ISTJ and ISFJ get along?
Yes, ISTJs and ISFJs get along because they are similar in many aspects. They are likely to feel a strong connection with each other based on their fundamental similarities in values and approaches.
Who should ISFJ marry?
The ISFJ’s natural partner is the ESTP or the ESFP. ISFJ’s dominant function of Introverted Sensing is best matched with a partner whose dominant function is Extraverted Sensing.
Are ISTJs lazy?
ISTJs are never lazy, when motivated and in the correct environment, an ISTJ’s work ethic usually cannot be questioned.
Do ISFJ fall in love easily?
No, ISFJs do not easily fall in love because they are very cautious when they are starting a relationship as they look for a long-term partner who has strong feelings for them.
Who Should an ISTJ marry?
The ISTJ’s natural partner is the ESFP or the ESTP. ISTJ’s dominant function of Introverted Sensing is best matched with a partner whose personality is dominated by Extraverted Sensing.
Are ISTJ manipulative?
No, ISTJs are not manipulative. However, they have a strong desire for things to be done in their way they issue orders instead, and a person is free to accept or decline.
References
‘Comparison of Insights Discovery System to Myers-Briggs Type Indicator report’, retrieved from https://www.insights.com/
Isabel Briggs Myers, (2015), Introduction to Type, CPP. PDF
