#monicamcentee

[aggie2011whoop]

Seeing the notifications for these little snippets pop up on my phone have made me so happy the past couple days! Everyone needs a break every now and then, but I'm really glad to see your work again. I even was able to get my sister hooked on your fics, she's almost through Cairo and she absolutely loves Clint!

YAY! Both for you being excited about new stuff and for you getting your sister hooked on the VPU too! :D double yay!

[aggie2011whoop]

Natasha Romanoff - ISTJ

Ok so I think I finally figured out what personality type Natasha has. Ironically enough she was really hard to type and she ended up being the same type as me!

Introverted+Sensing+Thinking+Judging

The first letter signifies the source and direction of a person’s energy expression: Introvert vs Extravert. An introvert has a source of energy mainly in their own internal world. The second letter represents the method by which  someone perceives information: Sensing vs Intuitive. Sensing means that a person mainly believes information he or she receives directly from the external world. The third letter represents how a person processes information: Thinking vs Feeling. Thinking means that a person makes a decision mainly through logic. The last letter reflects how a person implements the information he or she has processed: Judging vs Perceiving. Judging means that a person organizes all of his/her life events and, as a rule, sticks to his/her plans.

ISTJs are quietly systematic, factual, organized, logical detailed, conscientious, analytical, responsible, pragmatic, critical, conservative, decisive, stable, concrete, and efficient.

ISTJs are responsible organizers, driven to create and enforce order within systems and institutions. They are neat and orderly, inside and out, and tend to have a procedure for everything they do. They are reliable and dutiful and want to uphold tradition and follow regulations. This is what makes Natasha a great agent/assassin. This also complements Clint’s tendency to have a bit of chaos around him. Natasha can keep him in line when she needs to. They each have their own ways of going about missions which happen to work really well together and can help each other see things in a different perspective.

ISTJs are steady, productive contributors. Even though they are introverted, they are rarely isolated; typical ISTJs know just where they belong in life, and want to understand how they can participate in established organizations and systems. This is what makes Natasha very effective in espionage. She knows how to fit into society and stands out in that way where as Clint takes to the shadows and tries to keep his distance from people. She has the ability to seem extraverted when she wants to.

ISTJs like to know what the rules of the game are, valuing predictability more than imagination. They rely on their past experiences to guide them, and are most comfortable in familiar surroundings. They trust the proven method, and appreciate the value of dedicated practice to build confidence in their skills. This is another area where she and Clint differ. Natasha isn’t really one to take chances. She really thinks things through before she acts and is a planner. This also goes hand in hand with loyalty. This is one of the reasons why she stayed with the Black Widow program for so long, it was all she knew and was familiar with and so that is where her loyalties lied. And then next with SHIELD and Clint. She is a very loyal person.

ISTJs are hardworking and will persist until the task is done. They are logical and methodical, and often enjoy tasks  that require them to use step-by-step reasoning to solve a problem. They are meticulous in their attention to details, and examine things closely to be sure they are correct. With their straightforward logic and orientation to detail, they work systematically to bring order to their own small parts of the world. Natasha always gets things done and does it well. She is one to rarely make mistakes. She is definitely not someone you would want sent after you because she will do her job and you probably won’t even see it coming. 

ISTJs have a serious, conservative air about them. Where as Clint is naturally a trouble-maker with a wicked sense of humor, Natasha is naturally more serious with a dry sense of humor. She can have a good time but she doesn’t put herself out there and doesn’t make a fool of herself. Clint has helped her most in this area, he is able to make her relax and make her laugh. ISTJs are practical and no-nonsense, and rarely call attention to themselves. Their clothes and possessions even tend to be chosen based on utility rather than fashion. They typically speak in a straightforward manner and have a good head for details. They are usually more enthusiastic about sharing factual information than exploring abstract concepts or unproven ideas.  Clint and Natasha have always been able to be honest with each other, even before they became partner’s. They both can be blunt in how they speak.

ISTJs have sharp, fact-based minds, and prefer autonomy and self-sufficiency to reliance on someone or something. Dependency on others is often seen by them as a weakness, and their passion for duty, dependability and impeccable personal integrity forbid falling into such a trap. Natasha is very independent and the only person she will accept help from is Clint and possibly Phil. You really see this in Vietnam when Clint is trying to connect with her on a more personal level. She’s not used to relying on anyone and he wanted her to rely on him in every sense of the word. He wanted her trust which is something they both struggle with and ended up gaining in each other.

To ISTJs, honesty is far more important that emotional considerations, and their blunt approach leaves others with the false impression that they are cold, or even robotic. People with this type may struggle to express emotion or affection outwardly. It’s interesting how two people who have a hard time expressing emotion were able to click so well. But they are able to express their emotions honestly with each other and in complete faith that they will not use that against each other.

Their strengths are that they are honest and direct, strong-willed and dutiful, very responsible, calm and practical, create and enforce order, jack-of-all-trades, good at listening, precise and detailed.

Their weaknesses are that they are stubborn, always by the book, insensitive, judgmental, often unreasonably blame themselves, can become too rigid, not generous with praise, desires to always be right, and not in tune with feelings.

The dominant cognitive function is Introverted Sensing (Si). Si means they look at information in terms of facts and details, focusing more on the here and now rather than possibilities for the future. They feel comfortable in areas of proven experience, and take a realistic approach. Si is used primarily to govern the inner world of thoughts and emotions. They seek to develop a realistic understanding of the world as it is, in the light of what they observe. They are pragmatic in nature, constantly learning to adapt to the world as it is now, and are constantly expanding their inner store of facts, information and experiences.

The secondary function is Extraverted Thinking (Te). Te manifests as the ability to take concrete, efficient action on the user’s analysis of what they best things to do would be. They like to control the outside world. They are systematic, methodical, deliberate, and strategic in their approach. They proceed carefully and slowly, looking ahead to avoid potential obstacles and to prepare for contingencies. They look through an impersonal and objective lens when problem-solving.

The tertiary function is Introverted Feeling (Fi). Fi manifest as a strong, unwavering set of morals and values which the user draws upon to dictate many of their major decisions. When Fi is underdeveloped, they are prone to take things personally. They may be quick to overreact and defend themselves. They do not always enjoy ready access to their own emotions. Since they lack an inner control, they try and control the outside world via their Extraverted Thinking.

The inferior function is Extraverted Intuition (Ne). Ne originally manifests as a reluctance to try new ways of doing things, occasionally giving way to anxiety over the unknown. New things are threatening and can only give way to risks and dangers, and therefore they stick to what they know because it’s reliable. They see experimenting as reckless and irresponsible. If one does not conquer this function, they might not always make the right decision since not everything can be straightforward and based on logic.

submitted by @monicamcentee

really cool character analysis of Natasha by @monicamcentee

[aggie2011whoop]

Clint Barton: ISTP Cognitive Functions

Ok so I have been learning more and more about cognitive functions since the last time I did this and thought I would go into a little more depth with the ISTP Cognitive Functions.

“I wanted to live the life, a different life. I didn’t want to go to the same place everyday and see the same people  and do the same job. I wanted interesting challenges.”  –Harrison Ford

1. The dominant function for an ISTP is their Introverted Thinking (Ti). The dominant function for any personality type is the function they use most often and without knowing they do. It comes very naturally. Ti manifests as the constant identification of logical patterns that exist in one’s external environments as well as a keen perception for any deviation from those patterns. Ti shows dominantly in how Clint is able to naturally see the big picture before anyone else.  By looking at things from a distance literally and figuratively, Clint is able to see these patterns in people and events and come up with solutions very easily. Their Ti wants/needs to know how things work, to gain a clear picture of how different parts of a system work together. Precision is important to Ti and as they saying goes, “the devil is in the details.” They want to figure things out through direct, firsthand experience also. Ti seeks the knowledge through all their senses: touch, sight, hearing, taste. When their Ti is at its busiest, that is when they seem most aloof. Such detachment is necessary for their intense Ti to focus. This is what also makes Clint such an excellent sniper. And while he likes doing things from a distance, his Ti gives him the ability to be a very good hand-to-hand combatant.  In everything Clint does, you can see him using his Ti.

“Any fool can know. The point is to understand.”  –Albert Einstein

2. The secondary function complements your dominant function. You use your secondary function almost as much as your dominant function but you are more aware of it. The secondary function for an ISTP is Extraverted Sensing (Se). Se manifests as the desire to experiment with the sensory aspects that the user has determined to be the most enjoyable or useful. This function supports and balances the dominant, inner focused Ti. Se absorbs the experiences and sensations of the immediate, physical world around them. This often results in spontaneous action, taken to achieve an immediate result. Se means living completely in the moment. They trust their immediate, instinctive response. This function is what gets Clint in trouble with his superiors a lot of the time. Coulson realizes this and tries to give Clint as much freedom as possible because he trusts Clint’s instincts and judgments. Se is what saved Natasha’s life when they first met. Se is also what helped Clint join SHIELD. This is also how Clint is able to move so fluidly on the ground and on rooftops and why parkour comes very naturally to him as well as acrobatics, etc. Se makes Clint very adaptable.

“The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails.”  –William Arthur Ward

3. The tertiary function is Introverted Intuition (Ni). Ni manifests as the desire to optimize or perfect upon one’s pre-existing talents or skills. Whatever Clint is good at he perfects. Clint doesn’t want to be an amateur at anything and that is where his Ni shows. Ni sees connection between things as strongly, sometimes more strongly, as it sees things themselves. By synthesizing the seemingly unconnected or even contradictory, Ni can take understanding to a new level. Ni is focused on the future rather the here and now. Ni shows in Clint’s ability to problem solve, which is made stronger by his dominant Ti. These two functions work hand in hand with Clint’s ability to find solutions to a problem.

“Common sense is not so common.”  –Voltaire

4. The inferior function for any personality type is the cognitive function that they struggle with the most. For most people, they won’t fully realize or develop their inferior function until they are adults. This functions requires the person to see it as inferior and to work to develop it. It does not come easy. The inferior function for an ISTP is Extraverted Feeling (Fe). Fe originally manifests as the user being reluctant to dabble with or express emotional concerns, as the user cannot logically make sense of many of his own emotions and therefore doesn’t feel confident in moderating them. As Fe matures, its user will feel increasingly comfortable making and keeping emotional commitments to others, as they grow more confident in what is expected of them. Fe can lead an ISTP to feel a profound sense of distance from others. They are often misunderstood and their own comments become cutting and sarcastic. Increasingly, they fear losing control of their feelings and emotions. Fe is something that Clint has managed to get better at but is still a long ways from mastering. In Youngest in History and Cairo, you can definitely see the struggle that he has with his Fe. Fe is a secondary function for an ISFJ which is what Coulson is, so he is able to really help Clint understand and trust his emotions.

“A friend is a person with whom I may be sincere. Before him, I may think aloud.”  –Ralph Waldo Emerson

I hope this makes sense. It was a lot of fun to do and I hope everyone will enjoy reading this!!! 

submitted by @monicamcentee

a really awesome character analysis for Clint by @monicamcentee

[aggie2011whoop]

Nick Fury - INTJ (The Mastermind)

Well I have another one done! Fury was kind of interesting and it’s kind of a combination of Fury from VPU and from the MCU. Hopefully next will be Todd and Dan and then Natasha. P.S I’m very happy you were able to use that quote for Clintasha week!

INTJs are one of the rarest and most strategically capable personality types, which makes it difficult for them to find like-minded individuals who are able to keep up with their relentless intellectualism and chess-like maneuvering. People with this type are imaginative yet decisive, ambitious yet private, amazingly curious but they do not squander their energy. Fury doesn’t “like” many people, he respects some, but Fury really doesn’t have any friends. He likes Coulson but they’re more like really good acquaintances, someone who Fury trusts more than others. Fury has a hard time connecting with people and he has no patience for stupidity.

INTJs are analytical problem-solvers, eager to improve systems and processes with their innovative ideas. They have a talent for seeing possibilities for improvement. They enjoy logical reasoning and complex-problem solving. This is why Fury is the Director of SHIELD. It’s a covert agency looking at the future, always adapting and always improving. Here the means justify the ends. This is the way Fury thinks and why he does his job so well and also why he is feared and respected. They are much less comfortable with the unpredictable nature of other people and their emotions. They are typically independent and selective about their relationships, preferring to associate with people who they find intellectually stimulating. There are very, very few people Fury trusts and cares about, but he still tries to keep it on a professional level most of the time. People with high intellect tend to have a harder time connecting with people and they tend to have a hard time reading their own emotions. One example of this was when Clint was shot in Croatia and Fury dropped everything to go with Dan to Croatia. Yes, Fury wanted to be there for Phil, but Clint had him very worried and Fury didn’t really even realize what he was doing. The Director of SHIELD does not just drop everything every time one of his agents is shot and in the hospital. Even though he doesn’t admit it to anyone or even himself, he really does care for Coulson and Clint. But emotions are unpredictable which makes him uncomfortable and the care of many agents is under him so he has to disassociate himself.

INTJs are perceptive about systems and strategy, and often understand the world as a chess board to be navigate. They want to understand how systems work, and how events proceed: the INTJ often has a unique ability to foresee logical outcomes. They enjoy applying themselves to a project or idea in depth, and putting a concentrated effort to achieve their goals. INTJs have a hunger for knowledge and strive to constantly increase their competence; they are often perfectionists with extremely high standards of performance for themselves and others. They tend to have a keen interest in self-improvements and are lifelong learners, always looking to add to their base of information and awareness. Fury and SHIELD are trying to keep the world safe and he has developed multiple strategies to do so, including the Avengers Initiative. He came up  with this idea to bring together a group of special individuals who could become heroes and save the world if it was something SHIELD could not handle by itself. And that type of thinking saved the world from Loki and the Chitauri. Fury is always looking to improve his plans and to improve SHIELD’s competence.

INTJs are typically reserved and serious, and if asked a question, will usually consider it at length before presenting a careful, complex answer. They are not usually warm or particularly gregarious, they tend to have a self-assured manner with people based on their own security in their intelligence. They relate their ideas with confidence, and once they have arrived at a conclusion they fully expect others to see the wisdom in their perceptions. INTJs radiate self-confidence and an aura of mystery, and their insightful observations, original ideas and formidable logic enable them to push through with sheer willpower and force of personality. This is why Fury and the Council do not get along a lot of the time. Fury knows he’s right and expects everyone to listen without question. Most of his agents do, except sometimes Clint and that is where they tend to butt heads. It can be really hard for them to see eye-to-eye since they think in different ways. But they do respect each other.

Strengths: Quick, imaginative and strategic mind, high self-confidence, independent and decisive, hard-working and determined, open-minded, jack-of-all-trades.

Weaknesses: Arrogant, judgmental, overly analytical, rigid, not in tune with emotions.

The dominant function is Introverted Intuition (Ni). Ni manifests as a seemingly never-ending plethora of theories, possibilities and inventive ideas that the user is constantly picking up on. Ni leads them to think not only ‘outside the box’ but 'about the box.’ To them every problem is how people look at the problem. They see connections between things as strongly - sometimes more strongly - as they see the things themselves. When synthesizing the seemingly unconnected or even contradictory, they experience 'aha moments’ when completely fresh realizations come to them almost out-of-the-blue. They relish in those moments when, suddenly after a long period of information gathering and reflection, everything hangs together and makes sense. More interested in the world as it could be rather than as it is, the Ni is focused on the future rather than the here-and-now. The sense of sureness that comes with their 'aha moments’ can lead them to sustained action against many obstacles to make their realization a reality. Fury is a spy and he is a director of a very covert agency. He is not an agent, who typically uses their senses to think and more think of the here and now. Fury is very inventive and is always tearing down, taking apart, and building a better version of something. The Helicarrier is an example of this. Taking in Clint and Natasha is another example. Fury is always looking at the future of the world and how he can accomplish his goals.

The auxiliary function is Extraverted Thinking (Te). Te manifests as the ability to take concrete, efficient action on the user’s analysis of what the best thing to do would be. The Te is like a giant sponge that soaks up information from the everyday world around them. Always organizing and categorizing things, the Te looks for order and patterns, and is very focused on understanding how one choice or event causes another to happen as result. But Te is not interested in information for its own sake; Te is invested in 'news it can use’ so that is can better realize its goals in the outer world. This function really helps Fury establish his goals because he may look at the future, but he needs to also see the present and past to see how and where he can make improvements in a logical way.

The tertiary function is Introverted Feeling (Fi). Fi manifests as strong, unwavering set of morals and values which the user draws upon to dictate many of their major decisions. Fi provides a person with a type of internal radar that enables them to see through others and know what they are really like. Attuned to subtle distinctions, Fi innately sense what is true and what is false. Only when Fi identifies a person with similar values is there a desire to form a connection. How Fi makes these judgments about others is difficult to put into words, because it is often based on images, feelings, and gut reactions more than words. As a cognitive process, it often serves as a filter for information that matches what is valued, wanted, or worth believing in. There can be a continual weighing of the situational worth or importance of everything and a patient balancing of the core issues of peace and conflict in life situations. Fury knows right away who he likes and dislikes without even really knowing why. In his own way he liked Clint right away. He probably felt the same way when he first met Couslon and Hill also.

The inferior function is Extraverted Sensing (Se). Se originally manifest as a distrust of the physical world that surrounds its user, or the pervasive belief that one’s intellect can and must be trusted above the sensory information that is available. As Se matures, the user may find themselves feeling steadily more in tune with the sensory world that surrounds them, and more able to trust it as a pervasive force. Se can lead an INTJ to irritability and even intense anger; sleeplessness due to persistent reviewing of problems; obsessive house-keeping or other organizational binges; continual focusing on the perceived sources of stress; hedonistic even self-destructive over indulgence of the senses; and an adversarial and perhaps paranoid attitude towards the outer world. Fury does have a problem with his Se sometimes. It can make him very uncomfortable and really increase his paranoia in the world and everyone in it and lead to some not so good decisions which can be morally questionable.

submitted by @monicamcentee

A continued analysis of the VPU characters! so cool!!

[aggie2011whoop]

Phil Coulson ISFJ

Alright so here is part two. I believe Phil to be an ISFJ: Introverted+Sensing+Feeling+Judging. The general attitude is Introversion, the source of energy is mainly in their own internal world. Phil and Clint are very similar in this regard. They are very to themselves people and a lot happens in their heads. ISFJs perceive through their senses which means that a person mainly believes information he/she receives directly from the external world. This is how Phil is able to read Clint so incredibly well. He observes Clint’s every move and decision to try and get to know him and see what makes him tick when they first meet. An ISFJs function of judging is feeling. This means that, as a rule, he/she makes a decision based on emotion, what they feel they should do. Phil’s protectiveness comes into play here with Clint. Clint is not just an operative to him and does not treat him as such. He makes decisions based on what is best for Clint, not SHIELD. They implement the information they have processed through Judging. This means that a persona organizes all of his life events and, as a rule, sticks to his/her plans. Phil is a very organized person and is why he is in charge of overseeing missions, hence the code name “Overwatch.”

ISFJs are industrious caretakers, loyal to traditions and organizations. They are practical, compassionate, and caring, and are motivated to provide for others and protect them from the perils of life. You see this mostly when Phil is around Clint. Phil has an urge to always take care of Clint, even though Clint can take care of himself most the time. This is also why Phil is very loyal to SHIELD. ISFJs are conventional and grounded, and enjoy contributing to established structures of society. They are steady and committed workers with a deep sense of responsibility to others. They focus on fulfilling their duties, particularly when they are taking care of the needs of other people. Caring for other people gives Phil a type of focus. Some people would start freaking out if they found someone close to them with a gunshot wound or half dead, but not Phil. He zeroes in on what needs to be done and doesn’t freak out. ISFJs are conscientious and methodical, and persist until the job is done. Phil doesn’t like going anywhere without a plan which makes him a good strategist. He also doesn’t do things half way even though it might make his life easier.

ISFJs value relationships highly and strive to cooperate and maintain harmony with others. They tend to maintain a deep devotion to family. Phil will always put Clint first, before everything, including himself. He values Clint’s opinion of him also and Clint is the person he trusts most. Anything seeming like betrayal between the both of them would really damage the both of them. Even though ISFJs are caretakers, they can be reserved with new people, they don’t just jump right in to relationships. They rarely disclose personal information quickly.

ISFJs are characteristically unassuming and humble, and rarely call attention to themselves. They are more likely to be found working behind the scenes. You see this a lot with Phil. He doesn’t want recognition for all he does for SHIELD and Clint. This is really apparent when Phil decides to confront Phillip Jacobs for what he did and put Clint through. Clint didn’t find out for an entire year and Phil probably wouldn’t have minded if it stayed that way.

ISFJs strengths are supportive, reliable and patient, imaginative and observant, enthusiastic, loyal and hardworking, and have good practical skills. Their weaknesses are they are humble and shy, take things too personally, repress their feelings, overload themselves, are reluctant to change, and too altruistic.

The dominant function is Introverted Sensing (Si), which is the sense that keeps people from making the same mistake twice and is done internally and cannot be easily seen by outside viewers.. They will experience something real time, but then they will quickly compare it to stored memories in their minds.This gives them very good memories for details. This function makes it difficult for them to create their own ideas or theories, something they don’t have concrete facts for. They look to the past to see what did and didn’t work before. They stick to what they know. This is what makes Phil so valuable to Fury and to SHIELD. Fury knows he can always count on Phil to get the job done and in the way SHIELD wants you to do it. This is also why Phil often does not make a lot of mistakes and why he is able to read Clint when no one else has had the ability or cared enough to do it.

The auxiliary function is Extraverted Feeling (Fe), which plays a prominent role in attuning to and empathizing with others’ emotions, and they can literally feel what the other person is feeling if they are especially attuned to them. But they will forego these feelings for the sake of asserting their judgements. This is why Clint’s nightmares effect Phil so deeply and why he tries to do anything to help Clint past his self-loathing. This is good for Phil and Clint because Clint has a problem with being in tune with his emotions and Phil is able to help him feel and deal with those feelings and then to move past whatever is bothering him.

The tertiary function is Introverted Thinking (Ti), which helps them think more critically and analytically despite their inclination to make decisions based on emotions. It can be difficult to sort through what they are feeling and what are the facts. Phil knows himself well enough that he has a good balance of these functions and is able to use them at the right times. It is a way to see inconsistencies. 

The inferior function is Extraverted Intuition (Ne) which is mainly concerned with connecting ideas, brainstorming new theories, and conceiving options and possibilities. This is difficult for people who think more logically and think concretely. Phil mostly uses this function when he is trying to teach Clint something. He tries to appeal to Clint and figures what they best way for Clint is to learn, which needs outside the box thinking and creativity.

submitted by @monicamcentee​

Equally cool psychological look at Phil’s character in the VPU. Thanks for the submission!

[aggie2011whoop]

Clint Barton ISTP

Alright so I decided to type the personalities of the characters from the VPU because I love the characters and the stories. I sent some of what I had come up with to Aggie2011 to see what she thought and asked me to share it. So here it goes!

To me, Clint Barton would be an ISTP: Introverted+Sensing+Thinking+Perceiving. The Introversion is the general attitude and is the directing of energy inward, mostly inside ones head. This shows Clint’s anti-social tendencies and why he lets so few people in. He doesn’t need a lot of friends and is fine being alone. The Sensing is a function of perception and it represents the way one perceives information. Sensing comes externally from the world and is based more on facts. Clint sees things from a very realistic standpoint. He perceives through his 5 senses, what is actually in front of him and makes decisions based on that. Thinking is a function of judging and this means that a person makes a decision mainly through logic. Clint makes decisions with his head as opposed to his heart most of the time. Perceiving is how a person implements information he/she has processed. Perceiving means that he/she is inclined to improvise and explore alternative options. Clint is very adaptable and has a quick mind to adapt and change to a situation which makes him a very good operative.

ISTPs are logical, quiet, analytical, practical, adaptable, curious, cool, observant, problem-solving, exact, realistic, trouble-shooters, hand-on, variety, adventurous, and independent. ISTPs approach their environment with a flexible logic, looking for practical solutions to the problems at hand. This is Clint’s “birds eye view” and natural perceptiveness that he is so well known for. ISTPs are independent and adaptable, and typically interact with the world around them in a self-directed, spontaneous manner. This is why Coulson had such a hard time hunting down Hawkeye in the beginning. He’s unpredictable. ISTPs are attentive to details and are good at moving quickly and responding to emergencies. They are reserved, but not withdrawn: they enjoy taking action and approach the world with an appreciation for physical and sensory experiences. Their strengths are they are optimistic and energetic, creative and practical, spontaneous and rational, know how to prioritize, are great in a crisis, and are relaxed. Their weaknesses are that they are stubborn, insensitive, private and reserved, are easily bored, dislike commitment, and have risky behavior.

ISTPs are all about actions and as the saying goes, “actions speak louder than words.” People lie and many people have lied to Clint throughout his life, so he’s not one to take something at just someone’s word. He instead observes body language and watches people to see if they are telling him the truth or mean what they say. This is something Coulson catches onto pretty quickly and why he provides Clint with a snack and drink in their afternoon sessions without an explanation. Coulson has the best intentions, but Clint didn’t know that at the beginning and he ignored the snacks. ISTPs need freedom and flexibility in their work, which is why Coulson and Clint work well together. Coulson is able to give Clint the freedom to make his own decisions and do things his way for the most part. This also requires a certain amount of trust. Coulson’s leash loosens and loosens and eventually disappears as he trusts Clint more and more and in return Clint is more open and friendly.

The dominant function of an ISTP is Introverted Thinking (Ti), which is known for being very analytical, logical, and objective. This type of thinking is done without much emotion and can come across as cold. Their decisions stem from a sense of practical realism, and at their heart is a strong sense of direct fairness, a “do unto others attitude.” They don’t like to think abstractly and theoretical. This shows in Clint’s natural propensity for languages, geometry, and physics. ISTPs develop complex systems and models in their heads which they repeatedly try to test and improve. This is all done internally, which is why some might assume Clint is not as smart as he is. The dominant function comes most naturally.

The auxiliary function would be Extraverted Sensing (Se), which provides the Ti with all manner of information about the physical world. The Ti and Se functions go really well together. They process heightened sensory awareness which makes Clint very observant to the world around him and why he sees better from a distance. The combination of the Ti and Se results in no-nonsense realism. They have an uncanny troubleshooting ability. Because of their uncanny senses and awareness of the world around them, they tend to move more gracefully and with ease. They also tend to have quick reflexes and are more physically adept. ISTPs tend to make good athletes. This shows Clint’s natural ability with archery, acrobatics, hand-to-hand combat, and parkour among other things. This also gives them a tremendous amount of physical energy and why Clint has a hard time sitting still if he is not currently sniping someone. They tend to be very good with their hands and hands-on activities.

The tertiary function is Introverted Intuition (Ni), which is prone to consult ones “gut feeling” and usually does so naturally and unconsciously. Ni is focused inwards, on the internal world of thoughts, ideas, and concepts.This function also helps one easily connect the dots and see the big picture. Being the tertiary function, it can be difficult for an ISTP to use and master, but Clint is able to use it and it has helped him survive. He just has a difficult time explaining himself like with Natasha when he brought her in to SHIELD. He has good instincts. This function also helps Clint see things more easily and quickly than other people.

The inferior function is Extraverted Feeling (Fe) and this is the one ISTPs have the most trouble with. The inferior function is relatively simplistic and often operates unconsciously in an all-or-nothing manner. This function is interesting because it either is not there or it very visible which I think has to do with who ISTPs care about. Either they care a lot about you or don’t care at all. Since this function is external, Clint has a particularly hard time with it because he does not like expressing his emotions and tends to show he cares through actions, but it can be difficult for other people to see that. Also since this is an inferior function, it is why Clint has a lot of trust issues. When Fe is operative, sensitivity and loyalty have the potential for great benefit and utter peril. This really shows with Clint’s relationships with Natasha and Coulson. He can’t see himself living without them and their deaths have the distinct possibility of breaking him because he cares so much about them. And since he has so few relationships like that, it would be heartbreaking for him to lose one of them. But on the other side Clint needs these relationships, they have really helped change him and make him better. Coulson especially was able to help Clint grow and become a good person through their familial relationship with each other.

submitted by @monicamcentee 

Really, REALLY cool psychological look at Clint’s character in the VPU. This is so interesting and scarily accurate. Thanks for the submission!