Happy Birthday, @goshdoggett! Hope you enjoy this belated gift~
DOGGETT
John Doggett is a solid, dependable, former flatfoot who is thrust into circumstances not of his choosing; but decides to knuckle down and do the job right. Loyal and easy-going, he trusts too often and forgives a little too freely. He is skeptical but wisely circumspect, caring not only about his duty but also about his people.
He is, in short, an ESFJ: Informative, Movement, Progression
(post here)-- the most supportive of all the Types.
The Hero Function
The ESFJ’s Hero Function, Extroverted Feeling (Fe for short), serves as the most "up front"-- what one acts on dominantly. Fe Hero absorbs what other people feel and belief, deriving personal self-worth through interpersonal relationships with the collective. They care what other people feel (e.g. "How do you feel about this?")
That interpersonal connection can easily devolve into co-dependence; or, as is more often the case, rug matting. Unlike INTPs' Fe Inferior (post here), an ESFJ isn't duped into being taken advantage of: they offer that privilege freely, feeling useful, loved, and contented when called upon or obligated by this, that, and the other. (Note: they often tag team with Se Users, who have no trouble recruiting them for this or that task, including them in a job or shenanigan-- e.g. Skinner and Doggett's team-ups in Season 8.)
The Parent Function
The ESFJ’s Introverted Sensing (Si for short) is its pessimistic parent: focused on duty, long-term memory, faith, and "should do"s, Doggett does so responsibly-- never letting duty blind personal allegiance (Fe). Si Parent is not loyal to just anyone. They must be convinced, then motivated to do so. It seeks to help others, to support others, to guide others to a safer path (e.g. Within, Roadrunners, Per Manum, Deadalive, Vienen, Three Words.)
Because of their Ti Inferior (to be discussed below), an ESFJ replays everything over and over in their head, examining a situation from all angles until they can rationalize and understand on a deeper level. (And because of their Te Demon-- again, to be discussed below-- they become irrationally, righteously angry when this extended rumination is belittled or swept aside.)
The Child Function
The most idealistic of the functions is an ESFJ’s Extroverted Intuition Child (Ne for short.) The Child Function is, like the Hero Function, a positive position; however, it, unlike the Hero, has less experience with temperance and mitigation. In effect, an ESFJ's Ne Child has the ability to believe-- and therefore, enact-- that they can make anything possible: no stone unturned, no limit unreachable. Doggett strove to find Fox Mulder for most of Season 8, believing he would find and return him to Dana Scully; and when his life (and hers, and the baby's) hung in the balance, he believed there was always a way to rescue and save them-- and did, countless times: Roadrunner's last-second rescue, Via Negativa's otherworldly experiences,The Gift's unexpected discoveries (post here), Three Words's DOD rescue, Vienen's complicated teamwork, etc. He is a miracle worker, if he believes-- and maybe the only man who could take on the files after Mulder and Scully's departure.
To truly wound an ESFJ's Child, one merely has to tell them: "I no longer need you", "I don't want you around", "you're useless."
(Note: The Child, The Inferior, and the Critic Functions are the trigger points of each Personality Type; and will send a person straight into a Demon Function tailspin.)
The Inferior Function
The most aspirational of an ESFJ’s Functions is its Introverted Thinking (Ti for short): this is where a Type's greatest fear, insecurity, and vanity sprouts from. An ESFJ's most painful pressure point is its Ti Inferior-- a fear that others perceive them as stupid, unintelligent, or incorrect.
ESFJs takes the most heat for stupidity because of their deliberation (Si Parent), choosing to intake and digest new information over a period of time before forming a conclusion. In truth, Doggett is as intelligent as any other educated man, accruing knowledge and personal insight into his deck of street smarts and book learning. While he often couches his opinions as tongue-in-cheek dismissals-- "You know, I'm not Oxford educated"/"Well, I'm no Fox Mulder, but I can tell when a man's hiding something"-- he's quite effective at reminding others of their strengths and weaknesses, beliefs and struggles in times of crisis.
To wound an ESFJ's Inferior Function, simply state: "You're stupid."
The Nemesis Function
Introverted Feeling (Fi for short) is where an ESFJ's worry lies.
The Nemesis acts as the similar-but-opposite side of the Hero Function. In this case, the ESFJ's Fi is just as strong, but not as developed, as his Fe. Doggett must prove to himself that he is good: by helping others, he is soothing his self worth. He worries that he is not good enough, or moral enough-- that he will fail someone and prove his worthlessness. In canon, his son died before he could find him; in Without, he vows to bring Mulder home to his partner; in This Is Not Happening, he finds a corpse, too late; and in Deadalive - Three Words, he strives to right his failures and keep Fox Mulder alive. Scully's struggles, Skinner's enslavement, Mulder's recovery, and the Mulder-Scully baby's safety get swept up into this inescapable need to help.
The Critic Function
As the grumpiest grandparent of the functions, Extroverted Sensing (Se for short) Critic is a critical, presentation-brained elitist. Every hair must be in place. Everyone's. I's crossed and T's dotted, an ESFJ will judge others for not acting likewise; and, further, will distrust their wisdom, experience, and know-how if the external doesn't meet their standards.
It's also how an ESFJ is easily shystered. If the presentation is immaculate, Doggett will be more at ease listening (and buying) whatever the other person is selling. While he doubted Scully's instincts and motives, the cases the two shared gradually wore down his skepticism; and, while he seriously questioned Mulder's methods and madness, he came to understand-- and even trust-- the results (after observing a successful pattern, via his Si Parent.)
Doggett, being a modest man, rarely commented these thoughts out loud; but if prodded-- namely by a peeved Scully-- he would admit his distrust in her methods (and Mulder's theories), various creatures of the night, and the science (or lack thereof) involved. "You're the expert" became a go-to line: a combination of his Ti Critic and cool, distanced Se Critic. This wore down over time with Scully's track record; but it was there (is there), nonetheless.
To avoid wounding an ESFJ's Critic Function, one should steer away from criticizing their presentation derogatorily. Pointers are good; pointing out to mock or tease is not.
The Trickster Function
The “blind-spot” function for the ESFJs are their Introverted Intuition (Ni for short) Trickster. The similar-but-opposite of the Child, Ni Trickster believes it is fully incontrol of its "abilities", perceptions, and behaviors when, in fact, it (like the Child) is not. ESFJs thinks he knows what he wants-- he does not.
Doggett is easily hoodwinked, scammed, or fleeced when acting on impulse. He works best in groups because their shared opinions and alternate explanations curb the danger of malice hidden behind friendly faces (e.g. Kersh, Crane, Knowle Rohrer.) For example: Scully, Skinner, and Mulder's paranoia ended up saving him from the poison of compromised advancement and the dangers of close-minded loyalty.
Because, again, ESFJs do not know what they want.
The Demon Function
Coming in last is the strongest and most dangerous function: the source of an ESFJ's corruption, agent of chaos, or powerful redemption (when mastered.) Extroverted Thinking (Te for short) destroys the voices of others.
Because an ESFJ is so intensely interpersonal (Fe Hero) and loyal (Si Parent), they trust others to give them an equal respect. An even greater evil is a complete disregard of their intelligence: when someone disparages their input, their thoughts and opinions, they riot. "It was [a fatal mistake.] You screwed up," Doggett affirms after rescuing Scully in Roadrunners; "No, you're lucky that I'm letting you stay. You got information important to this investigation then I better know about it. I'm in charge out here, Agent," he snaps at Mulder in Vienen. (In both scenarios, his goodwill was burned away and his chastisement unleashed-- and in a milder form than either would have given him, too.)
Note: one of the major differences between an ESFJ and an ESTJ (post here) is their respective Te positions. An ESTJ leads with Te Hero, turning their focus to ladder climbing, advancement, and leadership. An ESFJ, meanwhile, slots it in their last position; and, therefore, is more motivated by ethics (Fe) and morals (Fi) than rank, renown, or fame (e.g. Doggett's insistence on doing his job honestly rather than striving towards Kersh's tainted insinuations.) ESFJs are also, technically, the Thinker of the two [see THE MBTI'S MISTAKE: "JUDGING" AND "PERCEIVING" (J vs. P), post here.]
CONCLUSION
That about sums up one Agent John Doggett.
Thanks for reading~
Enjoy!
Disclaimers: This is a self-assessed analysis. This information is not based on the abominable MBTI system (which has been butchered from its original Jungian typology since ~WWII); instead, it’s a combination of Jung’s type psychology, Dr. Linda Berens’ Communication styles, Dr. Dario Nardi’s EEG brain scans and compiled research, and others’ data and practices as accrued and simplified by CSJoseph. This system is based only on the Nature side of nature/nurture; and each “Type” is not a “box” to fit everyone into– simply a tool to help understand the basics.
Second Disclaimer: While CSJoseph is indispensable for the information he provides, I can no longer in good conscience promote his work. I'd suggest reading or watching his older material, and steering clear of anything post-2020.
And lastly: here is the link to the Companion Guide I use.
Maggie Scully is a straightforward but puzzling character: how can she and her daughter be on such odd ends when they so clearly love each other (so much so that there seems to be a clear rift that only widened as the years passed?) How can she have bonded on a seemingly deeper level with Mulder than her own children (Bill sort of excepted.) And why is she nurturing one second then angry and withdrawn the second?
Fortunately for us, we have this Typing post to figure it out-- but, in summary: she and Scully (post here) love each other; but Scully's way of feeling respected-- expecting her space to be maintained-- conflicted with Maggie's insecurities and way of giving love, which inflicted deep wounds on their relationship.
MAGGIE
The Hero Function: The 1st function is a Type’s easiest and most developed of their function stack. Sensing Extroverted (Se for short) is wired around living in the moment: tuned into the present with impeccable short-term memory (and more faulty long-term memory.) ESTPs are masters of the physical world: professionally-- building, creating, cultivating, etc.-- and personally-- crafting, sporting, exercising, etc. They fully experience everything to its maximum potential; but they want to experience it through others, always flanked by at least one friend or family member to share the moment with. Having others around not only enhances the fun, but they also serve as their totems they can tap into later and relive the experience through (since they have poor memory-- see Si Nemesis below.)
Because ESTPs are so focused on the “now”, they are “reactive”: in crises, they are the first to confront a threat; and in emotional turmoil, they ride the waves of extreme emotions. It is not unusual for an ESTP to become very angry very quickly: not because they have lost control, but because the strength of their responses are already cranked at a higher level than the other sixteen Types and are then exasperated by the current problem.
Se Hero also cripples them from understanding or grasping theory or metaphysics: if it doesn’t exist now, in their hands, what use is it to them? What purpose do hypotheticals serve when the world can be conquered now? To them it is frivolous and a waste of time because there is so much else to do and accomplish.
The Parent Function: The 2nd function serves as the pessimistic guidance role for a Type, reigning in the hero with a balanced perspective to keep them from running amok. Thinking Introverted (Ti for short) is logos: independent, personalized thought as well as deduction and verification. ESTPs want to improve other people, working with them one-on-one to point out their flaws and sharpen their minds. They are incredibly patient teachers and motivators; and they wholeheartedly cheer the successes of everyone who has worked hard to grow and improve.
Because Ti is a parent function, it is incredibly pessimistic; meaning, it is almost impossible to move them from their firmly held positions (ex. while Scully can move Mulder easily from his theories with facts and data, Maggie will not be swayed so easily.) They will internally oppose any new idea or way of life that contradicts what they believe to be correct, silently pushing their own ideas onto that person and hoping they change their mind. Eventually an ESTP will see that said individual's choices have improved his or her life; and this will smooth over their concerns and help them concede their incorrect perspective.
The Child Function: The 3rd function is where a Type’s greatest joys spring from and where the most crushing blows are dealt. Feeling Extroverted (Fe for short) is rooted in ethics, inclusion, culture, support, and acceptance. ESTPS delight in caring for others, throwing parties and focusing all their intense attention on them. It moves them to have a great and influential effect on other people’s lives… but it also leaves them open to massive amounts of hurt and rejection.
ESTPs will be devastated if they are not made a priority, not included, or kept in the dark about their loved ones lives, struggles, and successes. This is the source of conflict arising between Maggie and her daughter: Scully feels loved if she is given respect and space (feeling that she has earned the right to these terms through her hard work in her professional and personal life); but Maggie feels betrayed for putting her all into a relationship with her daughter that appears to be one-sided. (This eventually leads to their wider and wider rift, with Scully’s nonsensical decisions in S9-- ignoring Maggie’s Ti Parent’s wisdom for plot reasons-- that was the final straw for Maggie. This led to distance that both of them maintained while Scully and Mulder were in hiding; and was still there when mother and daughter were together for the last time.)
But the most important aspect of a relationship to an ESTP is their shared sexual intimacy with a partner: they will go berserk without it. Their Se Hero is farming a positive experience with another person in a deep, profound way, excelling at creating mind-blowing and soul-connecting experiences for that other person to reaffirm themselves.
However, this type is plagued with commitment issues (see Ni Inferior below)-- they are afraid that if they commit to one person, their freedom, which is their penultimate need, will be taken away or inhibited. At their extremes, ESTPs are the “little black book” stereotypes-- not because they are “loose” or “promiscuous”, but because they crave an intense, loyal connection with someone while also fearing the loss of their own personal "freedom." According to canonical dates-- which should be taken with a mountain of salt-- Bill and Melissa Scully were conceived out of wedlock (possibly because Bill Scully, Sr. didn’t want to push Maggie into marriage before she was ready.) Maggie tearfully relates the day he finally proposed; and doesn't at all regret that she'd accepted him, which is a testament to how thoughtful her husband had been to her needs and fears. Considering all of these factors, when an ESTP loses the one person they picked above everyone else, it is nearly soul destroying.
In their platonic or familial relationships, ESTPs combine their Fe Child’s needs with their Ti Parent’s desire to improve others’ lives by giving them unforgettable experiences-- excessively doting on them, taking them out on a fun activity, and pushing them out of their comfort zones to grow them as people. When their loved ones respond positively to their active (sometimes unwanted) involvement in their lives by growing and changing and maturing, ESTPs feel accomplished and secure, prioritized and loved.
The Inferior Function: The 4th function of a Type’s stack is where their vanity and insecurity lies; and in this case an ESTP’s Introverted Intuition (Ni for short) focuses on personal choice, willpower, and always carving out a path forward to achieve their goals. However, because this is a weaker function, this means that ESTPs are afraid of what they want. They can’t seem to commit to anything-- not just a person (as discussed in Se Child), but any major decision in their life. There are too many options, too many variables, and too much confusion to make one clear choice; and this leads these types to be one of the Types most prone to “failure to launch” syndrome. Or, in Maggie’s case, gets her stuck in the same rut because, while changes obviously need to be made to create healthier outcomes in her life, she is unsure where to jump and how high.
This likely led her to willingly follow after her husband’s assured and measured ways since he seemed to know what he was doing (ex. leaving her daughter's Christmas party when her husband was ready to "shove off" without protest); and, after his death, she appears to have let Bill Jr. fill that role (another discussion for another time.) The only way for them to break out of these entangling thoughts and choice paralysis is to take courage and just pick one. It’s not the end of the world if that option doesn’t work out-- life will continue, and there will always be another chance to make things right.
Because they don't know what they want, ESTPs can be sold on anything as long as someone else has “tried it” and recommended it-- which leads them to jumping feet first in a trap (ex. Maggie’s friend recommending Lizzy Gill to her as a baby nurse in Essence, allowing her grandchild to be exposed to tampered pills and her daughter to be monitored by sinister interests.)
The Nemesis Function: The 5th function is where a Type’s worry lies. With Introverted Sensing Nemesis (Si for short), ESTPs worry about their long term memories… because they lose most of them. Si is tied to long standing traditions in families, communities, and cultures; as well as physical comfort, duty, and responsibility. Since they cannot clearly recall the past, ESTPs are anxious that they will be obligated to a commitment they forgot about-- dates, anniversaries, or work responsibilities-- that will encroach on their freedom in the present.
Another problem Si Nemesis poses for ESTPs is that they glorify the past, thinking fondly of their childhood or past relationships that have grown and changed with maturity or life. This can lead them to unhealthy expectations when they fail to recreate those magical (nonexistent) moments with their own close family, friends, or acquaintances.
The Critical Function: The 6th function is a Type’s cynical old curmudgeon, “back in my day”-ing whatever new thing it comes across, or gleaning grains of wisdom well beyond that person’s years. Thinking Extroverted (Te for short) is rationale: metrics, rules, statistics, logistics, labels, standards, and achievements. ESTPs are very critical of everyone else’s thinking; but, while they are inclined to think everyone else is stupid, they usually wait until the person has proven if they are or aren’t-- and still, they are unlikely to force unwanted criticism down that person's throat (ex. walking away from Melissa's aura talk rather than chastising her.) They are slightly more open-minded than some other types that are hyper-critical of others’ intelligence; and, with wisdom, are willing to listen to everyone’s perspective to correct their own faults and shortcomings.
The Trickster Function: The 7th function is the weakest of a Type’s eight functions. Introverted Feeling (Fi for short) focuses on personal morals and values-- what is right or wrong rather than what is true or false. ESTPs are completely unaware of what they value, creating a black hole of self-esteem issues they try to fill by making others feel good with their Fe Child. Siphoning off of that person’s happy experiences allows them to reflect that satisfaction back to themselves, “proving” that they are, indeed, a good person. In the worst case scenario, these weaknesses lead to debaucherous, pleasure seeking behaviors-- smoking, food or alcohol or drug or lifestyle addiction-- and when combined with a bitter Ne Demon (below) and an unruly Se Hero, ESTPs are the types most likely to become nymphomaniacs, seeking out the pleasure of intimate relationships without any of the fulfillment (because sex to them is an extension of one’s own personal worth.) Of course, the feeling of emptiness grows, their self-worth continues to plummet; and if they haven’t forced themselves to get out of their new Ni Inferior’s rut, an ESTP will become a restless “addict” to this substanceless way of life: stuffing their face with delusory satisfaction. Thankfully, Maggie seems to have escaped this fate. It also explains why Maggie held so tightly to her Catholic beliefs but insisted a priest talk to Scully instead of opening up the conversation herself: she wouldn't know what to say, as personal morals are elusive for her Type.
Another fascinating thing about Fi Trickster is that it is drawn to types that will give them moral codes to live by, i.e. ESTPs are drawn to ISTJs-- which is Scully’s type (post here)-- because ISTJs have a natural ethical system they implement into every facet of their life while ESTPs struggle to clarify and implement their own. Maggie always revolving around Scully-- following her from room to room during the Scully family dinners and hovering near her during the cancer and Emily Sims arcs-- was a symptom of how “enamored” she was with her daughter. While she tried over and over to draw her daughter closer, Maggie eventually became resigned to the relationship they did share. Both loved each other fiercely; but they never could get the communication “right” between them.
The Demon Function: The last and strongest of all the functions, the demon function serves as the ultimate avenger against enemies (or inconveniences.) Extroverted Intuition (Ne for short) is wired around metaphysics: all intentions and their potential outcomes for mankind are anticipated and explored. ESTPs, meanwhile, don’t care at all about the intentions of others, focusing only on the actual outcomes of someone’s choices and actions. It’s an ability that serves them well, because they can see through fork-tongued dupes and effortlessly cut through the lies everyone tells themselves so that they don’t have to confront reality.
When more nefarious ne're-do-wells try to pull them into a trap, these types can avoid almost all of them; but if they are caught, ESTPs rage and go down swinging, furious and defiant until the bitter end.
If ESTPs become depraved-- having been wounded by being excluded from their loved ones lives, for instance-- they then seek out corruptive behavior, which is when they develop addiction issues from thrill-seeking or pleasure-seeking behaviors (Fi Trickster section above.) The mentality “if you don’t care about me, why should I?” becomes their mantra; and they burn themselves into the ground in the furious pursuit of their own passions. It’s easy to speculate this somehow led to Maggie’s death: she was estranged from all her children by the end of her life and probably felt abandoned and unvalued, possibly pursuing her old bad habits-- smoking, perhaps?-- to dull the pain, leading to her ill health and deterioration.
Summary
Maggie is a woman of simple desires: life is to be enjoyed fully with family and friends; and she wants to be always included in their lives Sadly, this need of hers was in opposition to her daughter's; and it led distance slowly creeping into their relationship over time. Maggie's efforts at expressing hurt and trying to overcome barriers ended up pushing her daughter further away; and Maggie passed before there was complete closure all around.
Thank you for reading!
Enjoy!
Disclaimers: This is a self-assessed analysis. This information is not based on the abominable MBTI system (which has been butchered from its original Jungian typology since ~WWII); instead, it’s a combination between the works of Jung’s type psychology, Dr. Linda Berens’ Communication styles, Dr. Dario Nardi’s EEG brain scan compiled research, and others’ data and practices as compiled and simplified by CSJoseph. This system is based only on the Nature side of Nature/Nurture; and each “type” is not a “box” to fit everyone into– simply a tool to help understand the basics of the human mind that science has only begun to fathom in its limited scope.
Melissa Scully was a bit of a surprise-- I was expecting her to have high Extroverted Feeling (feeling and interpersonal connection expressed outwardly); but that was undercut by her strong, personal, moral system. Everything about her revolves around her beliefs; and how she helps and guides others with those beliefs. So, I tried to do her justice here with her strengths and weaknesses.
**Note**: This is likely filled with typos-- pardon my very tired editing brain~
MELISSA
The Hero Function: This function is the most effortless of the stack of eight, the “superhero” if you will; and serves as a Type's primary source. Introverted Feeling (Fi for short) leads with mood-based personal morals, values, beliefs, principles, and worth. ISFPs guide their lives with what they believe to be "right" rather than what is the "true" or "correct" way;
and are very proud about what they believe, integrating their morals into every fiber of their lives-- from personal expression to how they enact their principles upon the world. Because Fi is the source of independent morals, it draws others who lack or doubt their own to an ISFPs unflinching beliefs. This gives them ample opportunity to suggest or nudge others toward what they think is the right path-- whether that is true or not changes with each circumstance and set of variables.
The Parent Function: A Type's 2nd function is the responsible but slightly pessimistic "parent" of the hero function, helping it to fulfill necessary duties and develop maturity. Extroverted Sensing (Se for short) is "in the moment" personified. ISFPs live fully in the present, creating experiences to responsibly get other types out of ruts and comfort zones. They master creative pursuits (crafting or planting or hiking or sporting) to improve their loved one's life with hands-on, one-on-one bonding activities. They are most effective with Types that have high amounts of Introverted Sensing-- Scully, for instance (see here)-- serving as their healthy boundary-pusher and getting them to tune with just "being."
The Child Function: This function is the most idealistic of all the functions and causes the deepest wounds if “bullied.” Introverted Intuition (Ni for short) centers around personal destiny, desires, goals, willpower, and choice. ISFPs are ruled by their freedom of choice, following its guide in every area of their life. If this is stripped from them, they will be extinguished.
In a sense, Ni child serves as "lady luck" for an ISFP, allowing them to always land on their feet after a possibly deadly situation. They, somehow, usually come out on top, saving themselves and others in powerful and miraculous ways.
Ni Child also teams up with an ISFP's Fi Hero to make them very mood-based creators-- too often laziness is prescribed to them because they have yet to finish a project that has been "in progress" for years; when, in reality, ISFPs just aren't in an inspired mood or are slowly chipping away until, finally, it fall folds into completion.
The Inferior Function: The 4th function is the most important of the 8 functions, as it serves as the simultaneous zone for their fears, insecurities, and aspirations as well as their launching pad to the most powerful function (the Demon Function, see below.) Extroverted Thinking (Te for short) is rationale: inductions, metrics, rules, achievements, labels, standards, and reputations. While they are intensely soulful people, ISFPs are highly sensitive about their reputations: they are easily crushed by others' ridicule of their beliefs or ways of life.
These types strive for academic achievements or "book learning" not for learning's sake, but to increase their popularity and "clout" through cultural or historical knowledge. ISFPs are afraid of what others think of them-- they don't have to be good themselves as long as others think they are good-- and would rather quietly walk away from someone who has hurt them than confront them.
The Nemesis Function: This function is not only the 5th in a list of 8, but it is also the source of a Type's worry. Extroverted Feeling (Fe for short) deals with interpersonal ethics, acceptance, bonding, culture, mutual support, and balance. ISFPs are worried that they do not care enough: they put their own needs before others naturally (usually in a healthily selfish way); and hoard their own time and resources as well. In order to do away with their nagging doubts, these types need to reach out to others empathetically by donating themselves in a sense-- volunteering their time, energy, resources, or company to others and their pursuits. This soothes their concerns; and leaves their own personal touch on others' lives forever.
The Critic Function: The 6th function is a Type's most cynical aspect, greatest possibility for wisdom, and also the easiest place to rationalize a person out of their bad behavior. Introverted Sensing (Si for short) is focused on duty, honor, responsibility, habit, and security; but ISFPs don't like to commit while expecting it from others. They hate being obligated, leaving obligations behind to pursue whatever has caught their interest or passion.
They also have terrible memory; but can't seem to grasp how faulty it is. shrugging it off with a laissez-faire attitude of "it wasn't meant to be remembered." They will accept reproof if given proof they've been incorrect; but shrug off others' frustrations off with a laissez-faire attitude of "it wasn't meant to be remembered."
The Trickster Function: A Type's weakest function is their Extroverted Intuition (Ne for short): metaphysics and widespread consequences for society as a whole. Ne Trickster blinds ISFPs to the intentions of others-- leaving them vulnerable to plotting or manipulation-- and handicapping them to the potential consequences of their actions. To ISFPs, a possible problem doesn't exist until it smacks them in the face. Melissa always motivated Scully to ditch the conventional expectations of her life and go with what her "heart" told her to do (and pushing her to regain her repressed memories); but she was blinded to the harm it might (and did) cause her sister.
This led her and Scully down unnecessary paths of pain; but, while Missy would have seen it as a necessary part of life to fall into the same pit over and over, Scully was frightened further away from her intuition by repeated traumas, clinging tighter and tighter to provable, rational science. Her Trickster also grated on Mulder's nerves: his Ne Parent (see post here) saw all the disastrous consequences of her decisions, the Scully family decisions, their enemies' decisions, and his own decisions that led them to Scully's coma; and it infuriated Mulder that Melissa seemingly hand-waved it away as "entirely human."
The Demon Function: And lastly, the strongest function of an ISFP's stack is their Introverted Thinking (Ti for short), which is unfiltered logical deduction based in facts rather than external opinions or sources. For ISFPs, no one else's opinions matter: they must have their say and be allowed to believe it. If no one takes the time to listen to their input or scoffs away their insight, ISFPs will wash their hands from guiding others, letting the fools implode in their own stupid decisions.
(In extreme cases, these Types will quietly craft a destructive Goldberg Variation machine-- either with words or social embarrassments or life-threatening traps-- and spring a doom suddenly upon their unsuspecting victim.) In Melissa's case, she warned Mulder one last time that his vengeful defeat would disappoint Scully and himself; then washed her hands of any guilt and left him to destroy or salvage his own life.
Summary
Melissa is a gentle soul, actively helping others lead a more present life while attempting to guide them with her own morals and beliefs. If they ignore her or try to silence her voice, she will retreat into the darkness and let them die by their own self-inflicted injuries.
Thank you for reading~
Enjoy!
Disclaimers: This is a self-assessed analysis. This information is not based on the abominable MBTI system (which has been butchered from its original Jungian typology since ~WWII); instead, it’s a combination between the works of Jung’s type psychology, Dr. Linda Berens’ Communication styles, Dr. Dario Nardi’s EEG brain scan compiled research, and others’ data and practices as compiled and simplified by CSJoseph. This system is based only on the Nature side of Nature/Nurture; and each “type” is not a “box” to fit everyone into– simply a tool to help understand the basics of the human mind that science has only begun to fathom in its limited scope.
Skinner is undeniably an ENTJ, known as the Chief or the Executive. He easily commands a room, implements a plan for a group to carry out, and cuts the fat from the bones so everyone's life can work as efficiently as humanly possible (his way of showing he cares.) But that's not all there is to him-- Skinman likes to party and to party well. He's beholden to no one but himself while preaching the rules to others; and he is paranoid of the loyalties of others, never revealing his true self until he has complete trust in the other person.
No wonder he succeeded in the suspiciously paranoid, gray-area world of the X-Files.
SKINNER
The ENTJ brain is divided into eight main functions--
The Hero Function: The most effortless of all the functions, the 1st function of an ENTJ is their Thinking Extroverted (or Te) Function-- it is distilled rationality: organization, routine, processes, and implementation of those processes. For an ENTJ, their Te is so dominant that it leads them to the top of the food chain, becoming Master and Commander of any situation requiring leadership; and it helps them to "mindread" the intent behind the actions of everyone around them. This ability is able to sniff out a rat in the ranks; and it is very unlikely they will be blinded or duped by the shenanigans of other devious parties.
Te strives to make others less stupid: in the ENTJ's case, it gives them unmitigated strength to assess a functioning system, hunt out its weaknesses, and flawlessly cut out the weak links in the chain of command, allowing boots to hit the ground and leading to better organization and successful results.
The drawback to Te is that it is not independent thought (like Introverted Thinking, Ti for short-- see Mulder's Type post here): it's rationale gathered from other sources-- data, studies, opinions, etc.-- and can be easily swayed by group think. This can quickly turn into an exploitable weakness if everyone around them says one thing, even if the facts and evidence points to another.
They can, however, be saved from staying in their agreeable bubbles if challenged by a different opinion/belief/truth that is backed up by compelling or undeniable evidence. If this new information passes their trial by fire test, it will be integrated into their system. However: if you bring them new information but without sufficient evidence to pass their tests, ENTJs will write you off as untrustworthy, ignorant, and not worth their time.
Thinking Extroverted also CRAVES credentials and recognition. It drives ENTJs to top leadership positions, to attain titles or wealth, and to be publicly and personally respected and admired for their achievements (even taking pride in being credited in a horrible movie.)
The Parent Function: This function is second in the cognitive stack of eight; and serves as one's personal responsibility, duty fulfillment, and a pessimistic checkmate to the Hero Function's single-minded goals. For this Type, their Parent Function is Introverted Intuition (Ni for short), which is all about personal wants, achievements, and the singular focus on their own path forward. ENTJs want things and are highly impulsive with purchasing decisions-- most ENTJs realize that, while they lack self-discipline, they have insane willpower: they may covet that amazing new sports car, but they can't afford it so they WON'T get it. Ni Parent leads and guides them with freedom of choice: ENTJs can easily self-regulate; but if they are robbed of the freedom to make that choice, their willpower shrivels and dies, and they internally follow suit.
Ni also gives ENTJs the willpower to achieve the aims of their Te Hero-- the gain of recognition and glory. It pushes them to the top, fueling them to overcome any obstacle and tackle any problem, no cost too high and no setback too great. (Ex. A lot of women at the top of their career fields in male dominated spaces are usually ENTJs who were unintimidated by the odds stacked against them. These types are also statistically the most monetarily successful of the sixteen types, turning every opportunity into a benefit or boon.) They want to earn their own way, and expect others to do so, too.
To them, time is money, and to disrespect their time is to disrespect them. Most of their time is sacrificed to the pursuit or researching and developing their processes and workflows for themselves and others-- utilizing their Te Hero, they reduce giant task loads to manageable bites and delegate them to team members or others in their lives so that a giant project (whether professional or personal) can be eaten away in record time. They leave nothing up to chance, carefully organizing each step to the top: everything is carefully planned, controlled, and carried out. If you waste their precious allotted seconds, minutes, and hours, you awaken their Se Child rage's wrath: they WILL let you know how upset they are, usually by yelling or reading you the riot act.
The Child Function: Up to now, ENTJs seem like extremely intense people; but that is only because their two dominant function tag-team with each other to achieve hyper-competent goals. Sensing Extroverted (or Se for short) Child, however, is where an ENTJ comes out to play: they are constantly focused on giving someone a good time. When they can afford to spend lavishly or expensively, ENTJs will buy the biggest and the best--spa experiences at home, the biggest sports cars, the most expensive clothes, and luxury to the gills. (He will only EVER show this to someone who has earned his wavering and suspicious trust over and over and over-- see his Critic Function section below-- so it is a rare person indeed who is given the privilege of that peek into his inner self.
This function gives them an exquisite artistic bent, an ability which helps them choose the best gifts imaginable. They love lavishing people with experiences in an almost childish, optimistic way-- throwing surprise birthday parties, doling out special favors, and always seeking new ways to hand out amazing experiences. Although their Ni Parent is unlikely to spend constantly on others, their presents are unforgettable, whether it be monetary, experiences, or amazing favors they pull to save your hide. They will go to great lengths with their generosity, but ONLY to those who have earned said unwavering trust. (Skinner did send Mulder and Scully on a couple's trip in Arcadia, recommended their work to Wayne Federman for a movie, and saved Mulder from his own actions time and time again-- Ascension, Paper Hearts, Folie a Deux, etc.)
Se Child is used to gauge other's lifestyle and work methods so that an ENTJ can implement better routines with their Te Hero; and it's also used to gauge the loyalty of their trusted friend group, peeking into their lives and activities and constantly assessing them with loyalty checks. ENTJs CANNOT live life without loyalty; and if they spend all of their time (which is valuable) and money (which is a resource) and trust (which is not given lightly) on others only to be used, that person will be cut out from their life. They need to be told they are valued and appreciated for their efforts towards others, because no one usually will.
The Inferior Function: The 4th function is where a simultaneous vain and painfully insecure pressure point lies. ENTJs have Introverted Feeling (Fi for short), which is all about their internal morals, beliefs, and convictions. It's where their self-expression and artistic bent (discussed in the above Se Child section above) and their incredible fear of not being moral enough stems from. Fearing that they are bad and that they lack principles, ENTJs are always seeking to improve themselves for the sake of those they value and care for, to be a better leader, friend, and loved one. Their ability to be the most altruistic of all the sixteen types is unmatched; and they strive to pair it with their Se Child's altruism and change the lives of those around them in extraordinary and tangible ways. It can almost seem immature with the lengths they go to give and have a good time; and most of the time, others write off ENTJs as either too childish and immature or too cold and uncaring.
Both of these accusations stab ENTJs to the core; and, unfortunately, these types are the most prone to being hurt by this callous disregard and shutting up that sensitive, sympathetic side to focus only on their own interests and future. This then becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy: others assess and criticize an ENTJ at face value as selfish, which wounds them and turns off their altruistic giving faucet, which leads others to point fingers and proclaim themselves to have been right. All in all, they need a hug, a pat on the back, and assurance that they ARE good people and that they ARE doing their best. Their fear is relieved by reassurance.
The Nemesis Function: The 5th function is where someone's worry or concern lies; and for an ENTJ, it rests in their Introverted Thinking (Ti for short.) Ti is distilled logic ("if this, then that", "true/false", etc.); and it makes an ENTJ worried that they "don't know." ENTJs are executors and team managers, not ideas men-- and they are keenly aware of this hole in their armor. This leads them to question their own intelligence constantly, doubting what they do know and if it's even correct while leaning heavily on the second opinions and outside sources from others to give them a complete picture.
The Critic Function: The 6th function's purpose is to be on high alert from attacks from others as well as being open to criticism for self-improvement. Extroverted Nemesis is always worried it will be betrayed by others, especially those closest to them. ENTJs are constantly afraid someone will backstab them, which leads to emotional detachment and focus more on work than personal relationships (creating another self-fulfilling prophecy of being too "unemotional" and "cold" and earning themselves the reputation of being uncaring and callous.)
They have an intense fear of being abandoned; so, they preempt rejection by shutting themselves off, leading to the breakdown of their personal relationships and leaving them with casual relationships that provide no warmth or fulfillment. However: if they meet someone who earns their trust and never breaks it, ENTJs snag them and never let them go (professionally and personally.) With maturity, they realize that the world isn't out to get them; and that, if they open up, others will be there to support them.
The Trickster Function: The 7th function is the weakest blind spot of the Type's function. In this case, Introverted Sensing (Si for short)-- which is responsible for personal comfort, duty, and long-term memories and traditions-- prevents ENTJs from remembering anything. They constantly forget everything without realizing they've forgotten, like important dates or anniversaries or consequential moments that were important to someone else in their life. ENTJs also don't have a sense of duty to anyone other than their own moral code (willing to cover up a government operation with bees to win a cure for cancer), and the "should"s that others tell them to do are highly subjective and ignored if they believe they can (or should) do better (i.e. hiding a wanted man in your apartment because one of your agent's trusts you with his side mission.) The impulsivity of their Se Child can run rampant with their Trickster Function, leading ENTJs to do really willful, stupid decisions in the moment that can tie their hands in the next-- which is why the willpower of their Ni Parent is so important to develop as they mature (so they don't "inhale", marry succubuses, and sleep with murdered prostitutes.) It's important for them to keep totems to remember the important moments in their lives-- wedding rings, for example, mean more than just a symbol of their vows: it's also a key that unlocks the specifics of their wedding day, the specifics of which would have been lost to time. When a loved one dies, the part they filled in an ENTJ's life is gone forever, and with that the memories, in-jokes, laughter, and love the two shared fades forever, whether an ENTJ wants it to or not.
The Demon Function: The most powerful of the functions, this 8th slot is filled with Extroverted Feeling (Fe for short.) ENTJs are not aware how others feel-- in fact, they're so disconnected from that awareness that others conclude they don't feel. This leads to anger and coldness, repeating that oft repeated cycle in the above paragraphs. All they need is for someone to correct their behavior with unavoidable proof and they will immediately integrate these reproofs and change. It's not their natural inclination to care for others in the way society deems appropriate, preferring to lavish gifts and experiences with their Se Child rather than hugging and soothing and being emotionally available. If they are continually critiqued and shoved and pushed to prove they're uncaring, ENTJs will kill their enemies with kindness: they will set up an experience for that person seemingly in their favor, with attention to the smallest details-- and when their enemy is complacent, the ENTJ will rip the carpet from under them and reveal that the whole thing was a set up to expose their antagonist.
In Summary
Skinner's two dominant functions-- Te Hero and Ni Parent-- drive him to the top of every ladder he wants to climb. He earns status, gains achievement, and naturally gravitates to leadership roles while commanding a room's respect. His strong demeanor hides his child-like enthusiasm for the finer things in life; and his paranoia of betrayal keeps that side of himself locked up tight unless he has complete trust in the person he confides in. His memory is terrible, and he is often wildly misinterpreted as either too cold because of his emotional reticence or too stupid because of his outsourcing. Yet, Skinman is the powerhouse of the cell when it comes to operations, task forces, administration-- even sorting out personal dynamics outside of professional situations for those he cares about. When his loyalty is given, it is given wholeheartedly; and he will go to ANY lengths to help those he trusts, believes in, and cares for.
Thanks for reading~
Enjoy!
Disclaimers: This is a self-assessed analysis. This information is not based on the abominable MBTI system (which has been butchered from its original Jungian typology since ~WWII); instead, it’s a combination between the works of Jung’s type psychology, Dr. Linda Berens’ Communication styles, Dr. Dario Nardi’s EEG brain scans and compiled research, and others’ data and practices as accrued and simplified by CSJoseph. This system is based only on the Nature side of Nature/Nurture; and each “Type” is not a “box” to fit everyone into– simply a tool to help understand the basics of the human mind that science has only begun to fathom in its limited scope.
So! I had all these thoughts from my first watch-through experience (link here for live-blogged reaction) and nothing to do with it... might as well Personality Type the characters, I guess!
**Note**: Will edit later.
Disclaimers and Glossary at the bottom~
Bob Rueland-- ESFP
Bob is an ESFP-- also called 'the Bard’ or ‘Entertainer’-- who moves quick, talks quick, and slap-dashes his way through life (which is why Dan calls him “Bob the Slob.”) He flits from one new project to the next, rarely staying in one thing long enough to finish; but if he does, it is with Herculean effort and willpower. His dedication to Elizabeth’s gorilla enclosure project was the epitome example of this; and it’s why Grace’s compliment (“I'm sure she's very proud of you”) meant the world to Bob, having gone against his natural grain for his late-wife’s memory.
ESFPs pragmatically work their way through the world, asking for forgiveness after instead of permission first-- which lands most of the smooth-over in his friend Charlie's lap-- preferring to get as close to the spotlight as possible, unashamed or unembarrassed to entertain among friends (or a crowd of zoo donors.)
Se Hero moves and manipulates the physical world around an ESFP effortlessly, allowing Bob to dexterously handle heavy machinery as naturally as a ballroom dance; and he seeks out opportunities to entertain, show off, or integrate into a group and have a great time. His Fi Parent craves others’ praise and validation-- without which Bob feels terrible about himself (bowling attempt #1 and #2-- his let-down before the thunderous applause.) Te Child is wounded if others assume Bob isn't smart or doesn’t know what he’s doing-- hence the thunder and lightning in the boardroom-- because he is well-researched and incredibly intelligent with his information. Ni Inferior makes Bob afraid he wants the wrong thing, leading him to second-guessing and confusion (ex. his love for Grace after finding out about Elizabeth’s heart.) Si Nemesis combines with Ni Inferior to stun-lock an ESFP into “failure to launch” syndrome since he fears bad experiences (ex. having never bowled before, as Charlie points out); so, it’s a good thing Bob met Grace the same night as his disastrous first date, or else…. Fe Critic is suuuuuuper selfish (ESFPs think they’re a good person but you might not be); but we only had a glimpse of this side when Bob got angry at Mel's ingrained habit of waiting for Elizabeth to eat. Ti Trickster believes ANYTHING can be true or false, with no absolutes; and, while this boosts the ability to become a master strategist, it leaves Bob in a bind over figuring out what is true or not about Grace’s revelation. And Ne Demon-- the 8th and most powerful function-- will destroy everyone else’s desires if Bob is not given one for himself: only little bits of this "bad" side popped up, i.e. refusing to let Charlie stay and comfort him after Elizabeth's death and pushing his team almost beyond their limits for over a year (until he had a successful date with Grace and excellent progress on the gorilla enclosure.)
IMPORTANT
Here’s a little concept I’m going to crunch down into as much plain English as possible, so bear with me:
Bob is an Ni/Se User (which means ESFP = E/Se/Fi/P = primarily Se User; and Se always pairs with its opposite Ni on an axis.) Ni/Se Users are all about willpower: they are tenacious, relentless, and dauntless to achieve their goals. Always able to find hope, always desiring.
Elizabeth and Grace are both Ne/Si Users (we’re getting to them: Elizabeth is ISFJ = I/Si/Fe/J; Grace is INFP = I/Ne/Fi/P… anyway.) Ne/Si Users are all about giving other people options and choices, not reaching after their own. They are always seeking hope, wanting to be desired.
This means Bob’s purpose in life puzzle-pieced nicely with both Elizabeth and Grace for different reasons: lightening their loads with humor and drawing them to him and out of their often-hopeless perspectives on life by desiring them. It’s very common-- though not with all matches, of course-- for Ni/Se Users to match up naturally with Ne/Si Users; and that’s what Bob did here. He saw someone (plural) that he wanted and relentlessly went after her (them); and Elizabeth and Grace prized and loved that about him (ex. the donor banquet dance, the bowling alley show-off, and the garden dance.)
Grace Briggs-- INFP
Grace is an INFP-- also called 'the Mystic'-- who is a Background Type (like Elizabeth, spoilers), preferring to sit back and take life at her own speed (as opposed to Bob's Starter Type hyper-speed.) She paces through life navigating her interests and those of the people around her: very aware that her interest-- living-- was at the cost of someone else's interest-- dying. Her abstract nature comes out to play by painting her dreams and planting the abundant garden with "no rhyme or reason"; and this abstraction makes it all too easy for her to see how different outcomes would have occured because of the choices of those around her.
Fi Hero leads Grace, guiding her life by her own personally-held morals and beliefs (whether they are true or not.) It also makes her very moods-based-- putting off hard decisions until later when she's, hopefully, in a better mood (as she did with Bob and her transplant information... then it all snowballed.) Ne Parent is a great look-out for disaster in everyone's futures, seeing how things are likely to play out and warning accordingly (hence why she was usually right about different people's reactions to her scar.) Her sensitive Si Child is "abused" if others malign her as disloyal, which is why she'd panicked and bawled over Bob possibly thinking she'd been dishonest or unsteadfast when finding out about his late wife's heart. An INFP's Te Inferior fears what others think of them because their reputation with others is everything: as long as they think well of Grace, she won't care if she actually is (swapping out the bottled water for tap and not caring once Bob cosigned her revenge.) Fe Nemesis drives the worry that Grace isn't good or caring enough, getting her out of her moody, personal routines to make sure she's made her loved ones feel taken care of. Ni Critic is afraid to choose anything; so INFPs sit and do nothing: in this case, Grace sat in her grandfather's restaurant or at Megan's after work, not seeking a partner even though she was pining with loneliness. Se Trickster blindsides INFPs to how the world perceives them (ex. walking into the restaurant in her bathrobe and shower cap without realizing her crush was seated at the table.) And Ti Demon-- the last and most vindictive function-- demands to be heard; and if her voice or opinions are squashed, Grace will set a trap and gleefully watch as someone steps into it (the bottled water strikes again.)
Supporting Characters Are Going to Be Short and Sweet
Elizabeth Rueland-- ISFJ
ISFJs' Si Hero is all about duty, faith, endurance, and loyalty; and Elizabeth was all three when she did what she feared: speaking to a crowd so that Sydney the gorilla could have a bigger enclosure. Fe Parent responsibly enforces ethical behavior on others in good-- or bad-- ways, caring and nurturing for their loved ones' best interests (telling the dog to eat or chastising her husband for running around thoughtlessly in his tux before the big ceremony that night.) Ti Child is pure, unadulterated truth; and to hurt Elizabeth is to take her polite manners and misconstrue them as unintelligence because she can't lip service the social but untruthful compliments flung around at socialite events. Ne Inferior is afraid of the "what ifs" that might disturb an ISFJ's comfort (ex. worrying over the donors' reception of her speech.) Se Nemesis worries they are giving others a bad experience, fussing over the list of do's and don'ts she has to accomplish before she event gets to the charity ball and whether anyone will even like her presentation. Fi Critic makes Elizabeth judge herself with impossibly high, moral standards; and she feels worthless by default every day of her existence until she learns to checkmate those thoughts with healthier, more honestly-balanced ones. Te Trickster is unaware of the thoughts or beliefs of others, making it easy to dupe ISFJs with good sounding information (especially if they don't remember to fact check it.) And Elizabeth's Ni Demon will grab for what it wants if she hasn't been given the freedom to meet her own needs, becoming high-chair tyrant if it feels it's being inhibited by others' intent.
Marty O'Reilly-- INFJ
Marty's Ni Hero is focused on tenaciously making what he wants out of life come to pass, literally willing his granddaughter's new heart to life in the chapel and fishing out a boyfriend for her to make her happy. Like Elizabeth, his Fe Parent forces ethics on others' for their own good (though it can be annoying if misplaced... *cough* overbearing *cough*) and his Ti Child cuts through others' misty excuses and rationalizations to the heart of the matter. However, his Se Inferior shines in social situations-- for a short time even outperforming Bob's Se Hero if given the chance; but it also makes him insecure (or vain) about appearing foolish, so he is unlikely to show off to a group. Ne Nemesis wants to know others' intentions, shining a light on their minds and jumping to hasty conclusions if what they say doesn't match their behavior; and this often leads INFJs to undo paranoia most times. He also shares Fi Critic (feeling useless and worthless as a baseline) and Te Critic (unaware of others' thoughts and beliefs) with Elizabeth; but his Demon Function is all his own. Marty's Si Demon seeks loyalty, but its quest is knee-capped by his previously stated Ne paranoia, leading him to constantly second-guess even his closest loved ones and acquaintances. With maturity, this is tempered and even cut out-- and he seems to have lived long enough to have learned that lesson.
Angelo Pardipillo-- ESTJ
Angelo's Te Hero is all about titles, prestige, metrics, rules, and achievements, hence why he constantly parades Frank Sinatra before the group with Italian pride. He uses his Si Parent to encourage his loyalty, duty, and responsibility to others, relying on their feedback to steer the rudder in his care for them. Ne Child makes Angelo need to be wanted, reaching out and connecting with others to fill a hole that is bottomless; and he will always repay that love by magic-wanding miraculous presents from the sky, having the ability to make anything possible. His Fi Inferior makes him fear he is not moral enough; but he can assuage that fear by flexing and stretching this function until-- for a short time-- he out-morals someone with Fi as their Hero Function (INFP Grace, for example.) Ti Nemesis fears not knowing the truth, which leads ESTJs to ferret around for as much information as they possibly can before reaching a conclusion. Se Critic is a funny one: an ESTJ will judge and criticize someone's outfit to the moon and back-- because they equate intelligence with a well-groomed appearance-- yet wear hideous combinations themselves, completely blind to their own hypocrisy (as his criticism of Wally's outfit proves to be the case.) Do not let Angelo make his own choices, because his Ni Trickster makes him think he knows what he wants when he very much does not (we didn't see it here, but he likely got fleeced at a used car dealership once or twice or all throughout his life.) And lastly, Fe Demon will be activated if someone accuses him of being uncaring; in which case, he will stop caring about everyone until HE feels cared for, maybe.
Megan Dayton-- ISTJ
Megan's Si Hero focuses her entirely on loyalty, duty, responsibility, community, and family. Her Te Parent uses common sense and rationality to understand the people around her, building frameworks around human quirks and behaviors to better peg and predict their next moves. Fi Child has the miracle of sympathy; and if others were to call Megan heartless or soulless-- as her Type is not stereotypically wired around outward expressions of heartrending empathy-- they would be inflicting the deepest hurt imaginable. Megan's Ne Inferior is afraid of the 'what if's (not even able to say aloud the 'awful truth' back to Grace while encouraging her) and needs support from others when stepping into an unknown in her life. Se Nemesis, like Elizabeth, wants loyalty from others; and will discipline herself away from bad habits to ensure she is presentable and above criticism-- to "earn" that loyalty in her own way. Ti Critic assumes it's the smartest person in the room; and it takes Te Parent's patterns to "predict" what will happen "next" (giving date advice to her friend Grace, for instance), often inaccurately if it has not learned the wisdom of fact-checking. Megan's Fe Trickster gives her zero social awareness (calling her husband a gorilla but not expecting her children to repeat it and the other words she lets slip in her exasperation.) And lastly, her Ni Demon-- like Elizabeth's-- will kick and scream for her own wants and needs if she feels others have inhibited them too long (yelling at Joe for not pulling his load fast enough, for instance.)
Joe Dayton-- ESTP
Joe shares his Se Hero with Bob Rueland; BUT his Se Hero is focused on performance as a natural leader (in this case, of his unruly house of children) rather than the attention-seeking life of the party. His type naturally exudes machismo-- in Joe's case, he is aware of his limitations and doesn't make more of himself than there is; but is not ashamed to flex his gut at his wife or sweep all his kids about like a whirlwind when necessary. Ti Parent is very skeptical and closeminded to what is true or not, making him double and triple check everything that everyone says; and it pairs well with his wife's Te Parent: he keeps her centered by providing skepticism of her pattern-drawing while she pries away Joe's iron grip on his narrowed opinions. Fe Child is the most innocently caring: it hands out balloons and ice cream and good times to all freely; and to be called uncaring is a death-blow to the ESTP. Joe is also very, very hesitant to commitment-- or would have been early courtship-- because his Ni Inferior constantly fears making the wrong choice; and he is one of the Types most likely to have a little black book of all his options rather than settle with one. He shares Si Nemesis with Bob, too, preferring to stick to what makes him feel good rather than branching out; and, like Bob, it combines with his Ni Inferior to cause "failure to launch" syndrome (which Megan constantly pushes him out of, thank goodness.) Joe's Te Critic assumes others are stupid; and his Fi Trickster will believe anything can be "true" (hence why he's so distrusting of what others tell him.) And lastly, his Ne Demon will dismiss the desire of others who have wronged him, burning their house to the ground as they have burned his (or, in this case, willing to beat up Bob if he hurt Grace and, by extension, everyone else.)
Charlie Johnson-- ENTJ
Charlie's Te Hero is wired around merit, rules, status, and reputation (ex. his annoyance at being called "Sammie Sosa" was quickly drowned out by all the kids running after him like a celebrity.) Even though Ni Parent balances his wants (the whole point of Ni) with responsibility (the whole point of the Parent Function), his Se Child is where Charlie goes hog-wild. The hallmarks of an ENTJ are his childlike jokes and party-hard behaviors-- and Charlie sure showed off his Se Child in abundance during the awful date Bob had. His Fi Inferior fears he is not moral enough (like Angelo); and his Ti logic goads him to research away the worry that he is stupid (like Angelo.) His Ne Critic drives a lot of his romantic behaviors: ENTJs fear others will betray them to an unhealthy level, preferring to bounce from one detached relationship to another (which is why he assumed Grace was stringing Bob along-- and which makes it even sweeter that he had a partner and son by the end.) His Si Trickster forgets EVERYTHING, which feeds into his aforementioned Ne Critic's paranoia. And, lastly, we have Fe Demon (like Angelo): if Charlie is portrayed as uncaring or unkind, he withdraws all kindness and care, focusing solely on what will make him feel good.
Wally Jatczak-- ENTP
Wally's Ne Hero is focused on expectations, potential, gravitas, and possibilities, leading him to be prideful about his assumptions (and the group to pick on him all the time.) He shares his Ti Parent's skepticism and Fe Child's balloon-giving with Joe, though Wally's Si Inferior's fear of bad experiences is more different than similar: it's used to a more positive effect if worked on from an early age, making him fearless of any new experience in his later years. Ni Nemesis worries Wally about his future; and he twines his own fate with others for a more supported outcome (hence why he turned sweet on Sophie once he knew she had a crush.) Again, he and Joe share a Te Critic's mutual conviction that others are stupid and a Fi Trickster's absolute zero lack of morals. His Se Demon Function is the strongest of all the Types, willing to cast the earth into the sun to avenge his grievances against the whole of humanity.
Emmett McFadden-- Not enough info. Educated guess: INTJ.
Similar to Marty except with a more pragmatic (forgiveness instead of permission) and systematic (develop one way and stick to it) approach to life. Same Ni Hero, Se Inferior, Ne Critic, and Si Demon.
Sophie-- ESFJ
Sophie's Fe Hero is all about inclusion, ethics, acceptance, and culture (which she demonstrates by squawking about being left out of the plane ticket surprise) while her Si Parent provides her long-term memory and deeply ingrained loyalty. She shares Ne Child with Angelo, always wanting to be wanted and rewarding that affection by making miracles appear from thin air. Her Ti Inferior is always afraid she is perceived as unintelligent (the dumb blonde stereotype) because Sophie is really smart-- it just takes her longer than others to reach sound conclusions because she is weighing "all" in the balance. Her Fi Nemesis makes her worry if she's a good-enough person; but this is easily conquered by her natural proclivity to do good things for others in her personal life or community. Sophie shares two more functions with Angelo: Se Critic-- both of them judging Wally's outfit and manners (who is clueless) while wearing less than stellar attire themselves-- and Ni Trickster-- neither of them knowing what they really want and getting taken advantage of because of it. Lastly, her Te Demon demands her voice to be heard; and will silence everyone else's voice until she is listened to.
Dan-- ISTP
Of course, I'm including Dan the Man, standout star that he is.
Dan's Ti Hero is all about facts, deduction, criticism, and verification of data and information and opinions. His Se Parent responsibly deals with his physical performance, giving him more intense focus with his abilities as compared to the free-and-easy loose canons that Bob and Joe are (focusing on mastering the mechanics of rollerblading rather than bouncing around making a big spectacle.) Ni Child gives him uncanny lady luck, able to bounce back from near fatal accidents with injuries far less than expected; and what counts as "abuse" to this function is to take away his freedom, which will lock him up in a cage and stifle him. Fe Inferior is where Dan gets into trouble: he is easily guilted; and pairing this with his Ti Hero is what made him answer "tall" to Bob's fashion inquiries (because he didn't like Bob's choices but didn't want to be mean.) Te Nemesis constantly worries if others are correct, leading to verification; and Si Critic becomes hypocritical with wanting commitment without committing himself. Ne Trickster is unaware of others' plotting, making him blind to the bus barreling his way until it hits him on the nose. And, lastly, Fi Demon devolves into depraved debauchery if Dan is taken advantage of too many times, leading him to seek a "feel good" experience that degrades and ruins him in the long run.
And that's all, folks!
Thank you for reading~
Enjoy!
Glossary because Why Not?
Ni = Introverted Intuition ("my wants, my goals")
Ne = Extroverted Intuition ("everyone's wants, goals; collective fate, future")
Si = Introverted Sensing ("what's my comfort, what I'm loyal to")
Se = Extroverted Sensing ("others' collective experiences; joins with or copies others")
Fi = Introverted Feeling ("what I feel, what I believe")
Fe = Extroverted Feeling ("how others feel, how we're bonding")
Ti = Introverted Thinking ("what I think, what the facts say")
Te = Extroverted Thinking ("what's collectively thought or proven")
Disclaimers: This is a self-assessed analysis. This information is not based on the abominable MBTI system (which has been butchered from its original Jungian typology since ~WWII); instead, it’s a combination between the works of Jung’s type psychology, Dr. Linda Berens’ Communication styles, Dr. Dario Nardi’s EEG brain scan compiled research, and others’ data and practices as compiled and simplified by CSJoseph. This system is based only on the Nature side of Nature/Nurture; and each “type” is not a “box” to fit everyone into– simply a tool to help understand the basics of the human mind that science has only begun to fathom in its limited scope.
**Note**: I am definitely not an expert, so these assessments are subject to change with corrections or scrutiny.
W. Davis and W. Davis meet again in an airport 25 years after their love life took a slow nosedive. Now, curious about each other's decisions since the breakup, they slowly surrender to uncomfortable truths, healing each other and drawing closer together. Their love, which never disintegrated, becomes more open and honest after a night of new revelations and clearer understanding.
I've already written an overview of their miscommunication (post here); but found it really interesting to dig into their Types' frictions and fluidities.
**Note: Will ghost edit later~**
WILLIAM "BILL" DAVIS, the ESTJ
ESTJs are structure-based, "take charge", direct, initiating, and control Types: meaning, they have no problem opening or closing conversations with ease, saying what they mean upfront, planning for an ultimate end goal and keeping those plans until completion, and deal more solidly with concrete tangibles than metaphysical hypotheticals. As they age, they dabble more in philosophical abstracts (with their "Shadow" functions); and can aspire to be very crafty with their careful strategies and executions. ESTJs are the quintessential "Structure" Types, seeking or creating order out of a continually chaotic world; and, while plodding along their paths with that outcome in mind, they become guardians to those around them that need structure or protection in their own lives, as well. Because of this, they are the Types most successful at following the beaten path, upkeeping it for the rest of humanity in their wake.
The Hero Function: The Heroic Function is the Type's first and easiest function to use in its stack of eight. Thinking Extroverted, Te for short, Hero focuses on rational, statistical data: "I can do x/y/z if it's proven to be safe or advantageous or beneficial"; and are more likely to put more trust in established institutions or beliefs than individual ideas or new theories. Because of this, they will also more likely categorize and dismiss alternate lifestyles or opinions with a label or privately held opinion (i.e. "'Endure this dangling'? ...Now I remember Ginny.") This ability is actually an essential tool for society at large: an ESTJ has the ability to sort and rank large amounts of people and information into easily designated groups, helping others as efficiently as possible while also helping themselves to climb the ladders of achievement. (However, unlike most ENTJs-- post here-- ESTJ's find it more comfortable to take and delegate orders rather than directly give them, fitting them perfectly into second-in-command or managerial positions.)
The Parent Function: The second "parental" Function of the eight is the most guiding or reinforcing for the Hero, steering it away from too easy, pleasure-seeking solutions. Sensing Introverted, Si for short, Parent dictates a person's dedication to duty, long-term memory, responsibility, and loyalty; in essence, the "should do"s of life. For an ESTJ, it makes them responsibly loyal, not willing to hand out trust or commitment to anyone until they've earned it (or in Bill and Willa's case, earned it back.) It'll give others a helping hand, keep an eye out for them, even go out of their way for that person; but trust with all their heart and soul is worked at, not just handed over.
The Child Function: The third Function is the Type's propensity for their specific brand of overflowing optimism or ability to make "miracles" for themselves and others. Extroverted Intuition, Ne for short, Inferior has the "miracle" of making anything possible, pulling impossible solutions or improbable second chances out of thin air for their loved ones (and themselves.) It is also the place where a Type can be "abused" and deeply wounded: "child abuse" to an ESTJ is when others do not communicate their intent, wants, or needs: it leaves Ne Child to flounder and spiral and guess and second guess, breaking down their Si Parent's security and trust and scaring an ESTJ into a wrong choice with their Ni Trickster (which is what lead to the breakdown of Bill and Willa's relationship.) An ESTJ must feel wanted; and if they're acts of service are taken for granted and unappreciated, they will feel used and unwanted.
The Inferior Function: The fourth Function is an aspirational function, acting as the vanity and insecurity of a Type and leading either to their positive Unconscious or negative Superego (post here.) Introverted Feeling, Fi for short, fears that it is not morally strong enough-- that they lack good principles or are lacking as a person (Bill's fear of having failed his daughter, and later Willa and their daughter); but, if mature, can out-moral stronger Fi Users in short bursts, becoming brave enough to seek individual meaning outside the confines of fear or expectation.
The Nemesis Function: The fifth Function serves as a speedbump for the Hero, its anti-hero that can be transformed from a guilt-trip to a Type's necessary counterpoint perspective. Introverted Thinking, Ti for short, Nemesis always fears that it's and other people's thinking is faulty or incorrect; and, if used to an ESTJ's advantage, will drive them to cross-reference their beliefs or (possibly outdated) information. (This was the core reason behind Bill's suspicions before Willa even proposed an open relationship: Willa struggles with articulation, and her communication was never clear enough for her then-boyfriend's worries, which created suspicion.)
The Critic Function: The sixth Function is either the crotchety old grandparent or the wise, matured elder of the eight functions. Extroverted Sensing, Se for short, Critic is an elitist hypocrite, equating external appearance with intelligence and criticizing others' appearance or mannerisms or ways of life that don't reflect "decently" back on them (ex. Bill's "Oil of newt?" and "You don't have a phone? Of course you don't have a phone!" to Willa.) At the same time, their own presentation or personal lives could be lacking without them realizing (Bill yelling at Willa for her being a "mess" while his own life was also in shambles.)
The Trickster Function: The seventh Function is the blind-and-deaf of the eight functions. Introverted Intuition, Ni for short, Trickster deceived an ESTJ into thinking they know what want-- they DO NOT. It is imperative that they do not make big decisions, especially big ones, alone or without input or proper outsourcing; otherwise, they will be tricked into a faulty decision by malevolent actors... or by themselves (Bill's decision to break up with Willa instead of communicating contributed to the relationship's end.) If matured, this function helps sort through what an ESTJ really wants versus what it thinks it wants.
The Demon Function: The eighth and most powerful Function of the stack, the Demon is reserved for punishment or retribution if a person's needs are routinely being ignored or disregarded. Extroverted Thinking, Fe for short, stops caring about what others feel if others mischaracterize them as selfish, greedy, or horrible humans. Their anger transforms into a determination to make sure "no one will feel good until I feel good; and even then, MAYBE I'll let others feel good" (which is why Bill snapped at Willa after she labeled him wrongly in their first major fight and snapped at her later, again-- wrongfully-- for trying to help him out of his comfort zone.)
Virtue and Vice: Serenity and Chaos (Leaf Blower)
Purpose-- what humanity chases perhaps to our graves. Virtue and Vice distill that purpose into two "yin and yang" (if you will) opposites that strive to coalesce into one healthily, balanced individual.
What is an ESTJ's purpose? Bill Davis tells us himself:
"...You know what I do love? What I really, really love? My leaf blower. ...Gettin' those leaves into one big pile and then blowing that pile into smithereens; and making order out of disorder and then disorder out of order-- over and over and over again-- 'This is my backyard.' I love my leaf blower."
ESTJ's are trying to bring order out of the chaos because they hate chaos. The world, however, is balanced by both: too much order and life and new discoveries and advancements and possibilities stagnate; too much chaos and the world falls apart without the guardrails of morals and ethics and basic human decency. Bill is seeking serenity, quite literally walking from one airport terminal to another to escape the disruption of modern music and its effects on his tranquility. They spot chaos coming from a mile away. Not only that, but a person or thing that brings chaos into their life without consideration builds up resentment in an ESTJ, and contributed to his frustrations with Willa most of the movie (chastising her for her rain stick swinging, snapping at her good and bad prodding, etc.) But then why is Bill drawn to Willa despite his blatant aversion to her naturally chaotic state of being? That's where his Vice factors in.
How does it factor in? An ESTJ fervently quests to find and retain rigid order; and when that fails, apathy kicks in and chaos reigns supreme. In What Happens Later, baby Kevin is crippling Bill's ability to do his job, the storm is crippling his ability to escape the from his blunder with Rose through work, the airport music is crippling his ability to escape into his mind and recuperate, Willa is crippling his ability to avoid confrontation about their past, and the airport announcer is crippling his ability to leave it all behind and make a final escape on Willa's flight in her stead. Bill breaks, railing at the airport overlord who he sees as the orchestrator of this mess.
So, too much serenity had Bill limp-wristedly coasting from one aggravation to the next, and too much chaos had him yelling at Willa and quite literally stomping his feet. The lesson he learned is balance; and he learned that balance by becoming serene in, and in spite of, chaos: taking the power outage in stride (by offering a ride around on the cart), powering through tough conversations and giving Willa her power back (by cleansing Willa with the rain stick), and accepting her soft rejection but acting on her second acceptance later (smoothly motioning through the chaos of both their planes taking off.)
WILHELMINA "WILLA" DAVIS, the ESFP
ESFPs are starter-based, "hit the ground running" initiating, informative, and interest Types: meaning, they are freedom-based, make-it-up-as-we-go people, avoidant of permanence and the possibility it might trap them in a situation opposite to their interests or desires. Life, they feel, is ruled by give and take investments; and if they are performing at their best for another person but that person's personal attention or interest wanes, then ESFPs feel disenchanted, discarded, and set aside as second-best; and they end up leaving to pursue a (hopefully) better path forward. The goal of a journey is its path, not its outcome; and they move passionately from one person or object or thing to the next as quickly as possible, often half-finishing or ditching their progress to "start" something new. This serves society because they are rapid-fire propagators of new or better ideas, handing off those ideas to the other Types who can more skillfully hammer out and execute their plans.
The Hero Function: The first Function of an ESFP's stack of eight is its Extroverted Sensing, Se for short, Hero: it hones in on physical "in the moment" awareness, engaging fully with others, providing variety, demonstration, or observation. It is unavoidably present, with little memory of the past and little desire to focus on the future (Ni Inferior); and wants to constantly share experiences or gain and give as much attention as possible. ESFPs live and die for attention, and particularly for credit and kudos for their actions (because of Fi Parent and Te Child.) They struggle the most with making a decision, their (Ni Inferior) fear hampers them from making stronger commitments (or any); and ends up costing them future freedom because of their present mistakes (Willa slowly losing Bill after she suggested they open the relationship.)
The Parent Function: The ESFP's Introverted Feeling, Fi for short, Parent cares more about its own morals, principles, values, or moods over those around them-- or even the truth-- and must have others feel good about them to feel good about themselves (which Willa realized after painting Bill as the jerk for disliking her "personality".) If mature, an Fi Parent learns to responsibly test their morality, weighing the pros and cons of their beliefs and helping others decode their own skewed or wavering worth (which Willa also did, admitting and owning up to her past mistakes and going the extra mile to help Bill correct his.)
The Child Function: An ESFP's Extroverted Thinking, Te for short, Child is often labeled ignorant or unbelievable because of their short retention span. This wounds them deeply, and pushes an ESFP to prove others wrong by knuckling down and ingesting vast amounts of information to disprove others' assumptions and improve their own status (hence why Willa lied, pretending that she was a successful practitioner when she was neither a healer nor successful.) With maturity, Te Child learns to thirst for knowledge separate from status-seeking, becoming a sponge of information and delightedly picking apart the intellectual brains of other people (hence why she respects and wants to understand Bill more in the present than she had in the past.)
The Inferior Function: The aspirational Function of the ESFP's stack is its Introverted Intuition, Ni for short, Inferior, which consumes itself simultaneously with willpower and hope for the future and an ingrained, deadly fear of it. ESFPs are afraid of making the wrong choice, often choosing limbo or pushing off the chance to reconsider an action before leaping in, feet first (e.g. Willa's asking for an open relationship and adopting out her second daughter.) Because Ni Inferior is unaware there will always be more choices created from one choice selected, they fear their journey will end with one wrong turn-- that they'll be stuck with irreparable regrets that can't be fixed... and usually end up there, regardless, after many, many faulty turns of their own (Bill, meanwhile, was the one who freed her from the Inferior's paralysis.) With maturity, ESFPs learn that one choice is better than none; and that the first one-- while always the hardest-- shakes off the shackles and shows them what true freedom is (and which is why she chose Bill at the end of the movie, making a first, independent step on her own.)
The Nemesis Function: The first of an ESFP's "Shadow" Functions are its Introverted Sensing, Si for short, Nemesis, which twists an Si's drive to act on honor, duty, and loyalty into an incessant worry. It fears tomorrow won't be as good as today, and stalls an ESFP's hesitant Ni Inferior into complete inaction ("failure to launch" syndrome), worsening its ability to make a choice forward. With maturity, this Function learns to force ESFPs into an action it dislikes or fears, using that experience to prove that, yes, they will survive; and, yes, they have come out the other side stronger and more capable for it (Willa facing Bill's anger at her past decisions, learning to accept his reproofs, and confessing her life of limbo because of her self-doubt all these years.) Si Nemesis is also aware that it needs comfort but isn't good at consistent cleanliness or orderliness in their own or immediate environments (and is often why they pair up with SJ types, who are usually more tidy and organized); and if chastised unsympathetically for these struggles, they shut down, throw their hands up, and silently brood as the problem continues to worsen.
The Critic Function: An ESFP's Extroverted Feeling, Fe for Short, Critic supports only one person: itself, believing others aren't as deserving of their support. With maturity, it learns to ignore the little voice of suspicion and prove that they themselves are good before judging other people as "bad" (Willa seems to have reached this maturity already, though she does Bill's judgments of her-- and almost comments on her ex's ex-wife.)
The Trickster Function: The ESFP's seventh Function is its Introverted Thinking, Ti for short, which believes ANYTHING can be true or false-- that there are no absolutes (as typified by Willa's belief in Leap Days and her herbal practices and affirmation that she and Bill were bound to meet again.) ESFPs do not have "logic", superseding it with their beliefs of reality; however, they can mature this process by collecting data with their Te Child, becoming a master at spotting inconsistencies embedded in different opinions (Willa's "You're already living your worst scenario" makes, as Bill Davis says, "a good point.") Futhermore, they fail at articulation, and are the perpetual Achilles Heel of their relationships (and was especially destructive because Bill is highly suspicious of any communication other than direct, even brutal, truth.)
The Demon Function: And lastly, the eight Function of an ESFP's stack is its Extroverted Intuition, Ne for short, which bursts forth if the Ni Inferior is stripped from its freedom of choice, setting fire to everyone else's choices and future because it wasn't granted one (forcing her ex to work through each painful conversation about their past because he denied them closer by never telling her the full truth.) As destructive as it can be, the mature Demon can be used to set others free, using their prescience to craft a possible future from potentialities (swapping plane seats with Bill so he could go back to his daughter's recital, etc.)
Virtue and Vice: Delayed Gratification vs. Instant Gratification
What is an ESFP's purpose?
ESFPs are trying to find themselves, thinking that pursuing life and people at breakneck speed will bring them closer (and faster) to the answers they're searching for. The reality is, because they live so exclusively in the "now", these Types often end up making decisions based on what feels good momentarily rather than what would be wise in the long run. This, in turn, leaves a body of mistakes behind them which they the attempt to flee from, futilely. Willa's Virtue is Delayed Gratification, putting her own ill-formed or fleeting ideas on pause to carefully consider her next move, learning the difference between trying what everyone else is because or picking and choosing what is (or was) best for her and her relationship.
But an interesting aspect develops because of an ESFP's irresponsible lifestyle: they learn to pause and study their past mistakes, maturely diagnosing where they went wrong and how they could have avoided this or that problem. It makes them wiser and better able to instruct someone else on how to navigate their own labyrinth (i.e. the simple and straightforward advice she offered William about Rose.) But, like Bill, too much Virtue and not enough Vice creates its own negative pathway for Willa.
Too much Self-Gratification leads to irresponsibly chaotic and destructive decisions; and too much Delayed Gratification causes anxiety over making any decision at all. When in balance, Wilhemina Davis learned (before she met up with William Davis again) to reassess her choices and their consequences and chose (with William Davis's help) to take an increasingly confident step forward, breaking the chains of her old cycles and forging the paths of her new ones.
HOW THE RELATIONSHIP BROKE DOWN...
There were already issues brewing that we, the audience, are never told in detail; but suffice to say, there was tension on Bill's part before Willa even proposed an open relationship (which began the slow descent to the end.)
Bill's Ti Nemesis picked up an articulation issue from Willa (though we don't know what); and, unsure what she was trying to communicate with him, began to worry and question her end goal. Willa sensed a skepticism or withdrawal from Bill; and, because Bill refused to communicate his Si Parent's concerns (read: fears) about her long-term loyalty and stability, she began to worry he wasn't investing as much into their relationship anymore. So, she messed everything up by acting impulsively with her Se Hero: Willa tested his loyalty by asking for an open relationship. That stabbed Bill's Te Hero ("I don't think highly of you") and Ne Child ("I don't want you") in the heart, confirming his suspicions that he would never be "enough"; and, heartbroken, he withdrew his Si Parent's trust while still giving his consent. That confirmed Willa's suspicions but didn't break her heart; instead, she gave up the idea of other relationships and was fully committed to theirs by the time she accidentally became pregnant. She fell more in love with Bill during the pregnancy; and Bill stepped up to fatherhood (Te Hero standards and Si Parent traditions) even though he had deep-rooted paternity doubts.
When the miscarriage happened, Willa fell even more in love with Bill because of his strength... but began to notice his withdrawal once again. Bill, meanwhile, was convinced this was a second chance; and, giving in to his Ni Trickster's lure away from the complicated exploration of his feelings and sense of betrayal, he withdrew enough so that he and Willa could separate what he deemed friendly terms. By the time of the breakup, both thought the other had wanted a life separate from each other; and both, while heartbroken, soothed themselves with dreaming up a happier ending for their ex-partner.
...AND HOW IT MENDED
W. Davis and W. Davis were still in love with each other when they met again twenty-five years later; but how did their mangled and broken trust manage to heal in the matter of a few hours? Willa first showed Bill she'd changed, winning him back with her consideration and prodding him open with her maturity; and Bill reciprocated piece by piece, carefully sharing scraps with Willa to test how far he could extend that trust.
Every Type has eight functions, and each of those eight functions need to be catered to for a person to feel loved, appreciated, or "seen"-- this was important for Bill, who had felt used and minimized in the past; and for Willa, who realized, nearly too late, that Bill had left because of her, not because of a lifestyle change.
An ESTJ feels loved if they're thought highly of-- more specifically, if they're thought of; and will melt at the words "I think highly of you" because of their Te Hero's incessant drive to be in tip-top shape in every aspect of their lives. Their Si Parent doles out care and thoughtfulness to everyone in their life, and feels special and loved if their loved one takes the time to remember important, small details that contribute to their happiness or comfort (watch a favorite movie with them, remember their favorite room temperature, help them before they have an anticipatory anxiety attack, etc.) An Ne Child just wants to be wanted; and if an Si Parent's is cared for, then an ESTJ's Ne feels doubly so (especially if an ex keeps seeking them out after fights and still and makes way for their many picky needs.) Fi Inferior's love the spotlight (because of the respect it commands), and it means the world if others not only give it to them but actively make room for them to have it (ex. Willa congratulating him on his successful career and daughter.) Ti Nemesis needs to know the brutal facts because they have worries that only 100% honesty will salvage-- and if you communicate through feelings instead of facts, it makes them suspicious and kick down to their Fe Demon. Se Critic needs for others to have their nose wiped and shoes tied, often looking down on others for their lack of presentation (or sneering up the chain of command at the new mangy top dog that somehow outshine his twenty plus years of dedicated service.) Ni Trickster needs to be told what to do, because they can't figure out which path forward is the best for them-- and those who sit down to untangle and council them on their decisions are appreciated and treasured (ex. Bill admired Willa's useful advice.) Lastly, ESTJs feel loved if others avoid appealing to their sense of duty and integrity rather than their mixed up and complicated feelings.
An ESFP's Se Hero feels loved when their loved ones provide them with attention (listening to them prattle on or reminisce about the good times, etc.) Fi Parent must give feedback, even if it's scalding; and feels loved if they are at least patiently listened to, even if the other person doesn't take their advice (ex. Bill listening to whatever Willa wanted to say, from light-hearted banter to more painful, wounding remembrances.) Te Child wants to be respected and regarded; and their feelings-- often a byproduct of their feelings and beliefs rather than the truth of a situation-- are often hard for them to communicate outside of an oftentimes rambly conversation (because of Ti Trickster.) Ni Inferior needs, not wants, absolute freedom; and, must be guided, not forced, into any final decision. Si Nemesis need others to share their comfort including them in no-fuss bonding where they can let their hair down and relax (i.e. a nice, zigzagging cart ride and dance-off in the dark.) Fe Critic invest into relationships with their all; and need to know those investments are valued and that the person values themselves enough to know how valuable an ESFP sees them. Ti Trickster must be asked what they believe or feel, not what they think: articulation is a massive struggle for ESFPs, and issues with extracting and identifying logos add too many layers to an already complicated form of communication. And finally, Ni Demon doesn't trust what other people want-- suspecting others of wanting something of or from them that would strip their freedom-- and need to be told what the other person needs instead (i.e. why Willa kept pressing Bill on his answers then and in the present, trying to figure out what he needed not what his Ni Trickster thought it wanted.)
In the early scenes between them, Willa showed how much she'd matured and changed, treading carefully about his family, nodding along with Bill's struggles and worries, and following him wherever he wandered to escape another uncomfortable environment. Bill then began to trust Willa more, turning the conversation from his job to his job struggles, from his anticipatory anxieties to his concerns about his daughter, from his anger at her past "faithlessness" to his respect of her (and his) growth and ability to change. After each conflict, resolutions were able to be worked to swiftly because of their present acknowledgment and acceptance; and by the end of the movie, both had kindled not only their love but also their trust.
CONCLUSION
W. Davis and W. Davis's relationship was torn apart by miscommunication; but the strength they gleaned from each other drew them back together, both strong enough now to properly bear up under each other's weaknesses and frailties and sorrows.
Love conquered all-- but it first had to have a good foundation to build back upon.
When I set aside time to study Hank Moody the character, I found an interesting little surprise: he is the same Type as Maggie Scully, the famed mother of Special Agent Dana Scully of The X-Files. There's already a "stick to the facts" deep-dive I dedicated to Maggie here; but, seeing this as the perfect opportunity for a juicier, meatier analysis, I dove right in, got lost in the weeds, and surfaced a (very waterlogged) fascinated little amateur Typist.
How can debaucherous "playboy" Hank Moody have anything in common with buttoned-up Catholic Maggie Scully? Quite easily, actually: the differences are born from a lack of maturity. To put it simply, everything that is wrong for Hank Moody's Type to do (without malice), he's doing it. So, let's read him for filth.
Here we go~
A Summary of Typing Functions
Every Personality Type is comprised of 4 main Functions (Hero, Parent, Child, and Inferior) and 4 secondary Functions (Nemesis, Critic, Trickster, and Demon) that "shadow" or mimic the 4 main ones. These 8 combine to create the "Ego" (main) and "Unconscious" (secondary) parts of a person's brain. There are two other sides of the mind (Subconscious and Superego); but that information didn't need to be touched on in this post.
Below are the 8 Functions:
Ni = Introverted Intuition: Personal Willpower, Choice, Desire, Focus, Goal, Freedom (“my wants, my goals”)
Si = Introverted Sensing: Tradition, Duty, Sharing, Loyalty, Security, Habit (“what’s my comfort, what I’m loyal to”)
Se = Extroverted Sensing: Physical Performance, Finesse, Realism, Observation, Demonstration (“others’ collective experiences; joins with or copies others”)
Fi = Introverted Feeling: Morals, Principles, Mood, Investment, Worth, Measure (“what I feel, what I believe”)
Fe = Extroverted Feeling: Ethics, Inclusivity, Acceptance, Culture, Balance, Support (“how others feel, how we’re bonding”)
Ti = Introverted Thinking: Deduction, Filter, Verification, Facts, Criticism (“what I think, what the facts say”)
Te = Extroverted Thinking: Achievements, Standards, Metrics, Rules, Induction, Beliefs, Labels (“what’s collectively thought or proven”)
Hank Moody and Maggie Scully, the ESTP
ESTPs are often labeled as the "alpha" of the Personality Types because they naturally draw people to them-- a little wolf pack of friends and family, if you will-- and effortlessly take the lead, carving through the world to make their own path. They are concrete and direct in communication, take the initiative in relationships and conversations, figure out their own and others' best interests, and pragmatically dole out solutions with a "forgiveness instead of permission" attitude. Their Introverted Thinking (ES-Ti-P) uses facts and hard truths to filter what is socially acceptable; and their Extroverted Sensing (E-Se-TP) uses their freedom of choice to observe others and create memories with them. ESTPs are wired around strengthening others because it makes them stronger, something which they must try (and fail) at before they succeed.
Their Typing Functions in chronological order:
Sensing Extroverted (Se for short) is fully tuned to the present-- mastering the tangible, physical world-- but must have someone to experience it with to truly appreciate life. They struggle with metaphysics: consequences and long-term implications; and tend to be highly reactive because of how strongly expressive Se Hero is. Thinking Introverted (Ti for short) is personalized, independent thought: ESTPs want to improve the people around them, cheering on others' success and improvements. Feeling Extroverted (Fe for short)-- rooted in ethics, inclusion, and support-- craves to be involved in every aspect of their loved ones' lives, delightedly lavishing intense attention on them at every available opportunity; and will be devastated if they are not someone's top priority, too. They are also known for their sexual escapades, seeing intimacy as a way to give back as well as receive. In fact, ESTPs often chase multiple skirts or shorts as a way to connect with that singular person's unique, individual qualities (this, however, leads them to many predictable problems if they have an underdeveloped Ni Inferior.) If-- note the if-- an ESTP is healthy, they combine their Ti Parent with their Fe Child to push the people around them toward needed improvement, feeling fulfilled and loved when their efforts help another person. Introverted Intuition (Ni for short) focuses on personal choice: specifically, an ESTP's inability to make one, unhealthily leading them to string along potential partners out of fear of commitment as well as overly relying on others to make important decisions for them. And because they don't know what to choose, ESTPs can be sold on anything as long as someone else has “tried it” and recommended it– which leads them to crashing headlong into disaster. To overcome their fear of picking wrong, ESTPs have to learn that there will always be another choice (and another and another) for them to continually make; and that a decision now is not the end-all-be-all. Lower down Introverted Sensing (Si for short) gives ESTPs horrific long-term recall, trading their sharper memories in favor of the ones that glorify the past; which possibly leads them to repeated mistakes that should have been learned the first time. It also makes them paranoid that they'll miss a deadline, a date, an anniversary, etc.; and, ultimately, that those obligations will end up cramping their freedom in the long run. Thinking Extroverted (Te for short) measures rationale, pre-established standards, and achievements: ESTPs are very critical of others’ thinking, inclined to believe that everyone is stupid but them. LOLs and mainstream forms of communication are likely unwelcome to a grouchy, 'high-art' writer with 'standards'; but an ESTP's mind can be changed after observing positive and prolonged outcomes from newer options or methods. Introverted Feeling (Fi for short) focuses on personal morals and values: and in this slot, it causes ESTPs to have none. Everything can be true or false; and this sense of rudderlessness leads them to either find someone with high moral fiber to learn from or attempt to fill that unsettled feeling by making others happy with various pleasure-seeking behaviors. Extroverted Intuition (Ne for short) struggles with metaphysics: ESTPs don't care about the intentions of other humans-- only the outcome of their actions-- which allows them to clearly read the motives of those around them. If their needs aren't met, ESTPs will fight and rage to the bitter end; and if their anger won't help them, they then turn that energy into sundry depraved means as a way to soothe their (metaphorical) injuries, bleeding out while in the furious pursuit of their passions.
The Foundational Flaw: A Lack of Self-Awareness
ESTPs are Se+Fe Types-- Se Hero, Fe Child-- which means they have zero awareness of cause and effect. Because Se is so focused on people-observation and the now and Fe is so focused on giving and taking emotionally from others, this Type is left with almost zero internal self-reflection. Hence, a stunning lack of social awareness: Hank Moody chooses to react instead of reflect, twirling around in the same circle of rakes and stepping on them over and over and over again.
What is each rake in the circle called? Well, I'm glad you asked.
Ni Inferior and Fi Trickster: Indecision and Commitment Issues
At the heart of Hank Moody's issues is the immaturity of his Inferior function; and that lack of development stems back to-- as always-- his childhood.
Pre-adolescent children need the guidance of their parents to help hone-in on and mature that function because it is, while initially weak, a source of great strength and a gateway to true contentment and fulfillment. Ni Inferior, specifically, struggles with choices. Introverted Intuition focuses on one's own path forward-- their willpower, what they want to accomplish, what they strive for-- but in an Inferior position, it loses the clarity of knowing which path to follow. Every choice-- person, place, thing, or idea-- seems to be filled with endless possibilities, good and bad; so, they end up not making any choice at all for fear of crippling possible potential in their future.
But it's not just Ni Inferior that is holding him back: the curse of Hank's existence is his Fi Trickster.
Post adolescent kids usually graduate from "Ego" work (the first four functions) to focus on burgeoning "shadow" work (the last four functions): there is an immense shift from living in a primary "easy" side of the mind and having to shift, forcefully, into functions that, if not tempered or trained, can become very handicapping. Again, Hank Moody likely didn't have enough parental support or guidance during this next crucial stage.
Putting it bluntly, Fi Trickster is more than willing to break a few (or all) social rules if it doesn't understand the importance of the context behind them. Personally self-destructive habits are second nature to Moody because he doesn't fully grasp or 'actualize' the ramifications of his actions; and if said actions trick him into thinking they help-- or make him feel temporarily better--then Hank won't see what the big deal is... until he's face-to-face with the consequences later.
To quote my paragraph from the Maggie Scully assessment: "Introverted Feeling (Fi for short) focuses on personal morals and values– what is right or wrong rather than what is true or false. ESTPs are completely unaware of what they value, creating a black hole of self-esteem issues they try to fill by making others feel good with their Fe Child. Siphoning off of that person’s happy experiences allows them to reflect that satisfaction back to themselves, “proving” that they are, indeed, a good person. In the worst-case scenario, these weaknesses lead to debaucherous, pleasure-seeking behaviors– smoking, food or alcohol or drug or lifestyle addiction– and when combined with a bitter Ne Demon... and an unruly Se Hero, ESTPs are the types most likely to become nymphomaniacs, seeking out the pleasure of intimate relationships without any of the fulfillment (because sex to them is an extension of one’s own personal worth.) Of course, the feeling of emptiness grows, their self-worth continues to plummet; and if they haven’t forced themselves to get out of their Ni Inferior’s rut, an ESTP will become a restless “addict” to this substanceless way of life: stuffing their face with delusory satisfaction."
Hank admitted this himself in a moment of honesty: “It’s my purgatory, really-- dinner, drinks, whatever. I’m never really all that interested, but I end up telling her she’s beautiful, anyway. Because it’s true: all women are, in one way or another. Y’know, there’s always something about every woman… my life’s work. But then there’s the morning after: a hangover, and realizations that I’m not quite as available as I thought I was the night before. Then she’s gone, and I’m haunted by yet another road not taken." This statement perfectly sums up the tag-team of Fi Trickster ("all women are, in one way or another") and Ni Inferior ("another road not taken.")
Maggie Scully may appear to be his polar opposite (because her Fi Child found something to cling to-- faith) but she still displayed these two indecisive functions in One Breath, trusting her older daughter to make the necessary moral choice. It also explains why she married her husband, a military man with fixed ideas of 'should dos' and 'what was right' and 'what was duty.' She tells Dana Scully "You were always the strong one" in Memento Mori, leaning on her daughter even during Scully's fatal diagnosis. Hank, meanwhile, has no one long-term to rely on for rock-solid stability; nor has he put in the work to fix the gaps that were never filled-in when he was growing up.
Of course, these aren't Mr. Moody's only flaws.
Truth-Telling Hypocrites and Rose-Colored Glasses
ESTPs are wired to correct, instruct, and help move people forward in life. A sympathetic ear, a well-placed hug, and a motivating check-in are all trade-offs for the brutally honest truth. Hank doesn't mean to (or want to) hurt anybody when he tells it like he sees it: it's the truth, he's gotta say it. He's a truth teller, period.
However, he also has a nasty habit of dismissing others' bad behaviors or actions to justify his own. Te Critic takes the measure of a person once, writes it down, and doesn't deviate from that opinion no matter how many years have passed. Life happened, that person changed? Nope. More mature ESTPs will verify with their Ti Parent, turning over the facts to challenge their opinions. But he doesn't want to, not really. Why? Because he can use it as an excuse for his own behavior.
Hank Moody has a short-term memory, so to speak (Se Hero): he lives in the now, isn't aware of the consequences, and decides that to keep scores would be unfair to others because they would then start to keep scores on yours truly. It's a covert contract-- "I'll accept you with no judgment, you accept me with no judgment"-- and yet another symptom of how much "growing up" he still has to do.
And worse, it breeds a haze that tints his clarity. Because of Hank's short-term memory, he can go from feeling absolutely betrayed by a person one day, hating them the next, and loving them the third after a faint apology on their part. Rose-colored glasses, in other words. He keeps drowning himself in unhealthy-bordering-on-abusive cycles; and, of course, he expects others to treat him and his mistakes in exactly the same way. It's why he surrounds himself with flip-flopping, unstable, neurotic people; and they all return the favor.
The only person in Moody's life to shake him out of said patterns-- to truly devastate or crush him-- is his daughter, who refuses to accept his 'let bygones be bygones' attitude. It is her criticism that cuts the most: Becca is stalwart and immovable; and he cannot excuse himself around her. Their flawed relationship becomes a constant reminder of his constant failures; and this sets off a swift and strong spiral into self-loathing.
Self-Esteem, Self-Sabotage, and Spiraling
Hank Moody will fail. Constantly. He's wired to do so: as previously discussed, Se+Fe is so out-of-tune with reflection and their inner world that they flub, mess up, trip over, fail, fail, fail until, finally, they succeed. His personality will always be a work-in-progress; and successful relationships with him must be built from the idea that he cannot achieve perfection except through very, very hard work.
Unfortunately, Hank-- and, more broadly, the ESTP Type-- hates failure, fears failure, runs from failure. Not only does he fear it, but his Ni Inferior is even more in-tune with the probabilities of failure, stun-locking him in indecision. Failure, to him, represents rejection: not of what he hasn't accomplished, but of himself. Thus, if he fails, he hates himself. Loathes himself. Cannot stand living with himself. Seeks out distractions of any sort to stay so in-tune with the moment that what little self-reflection he does have gets swiftly shoved away in the closet. His Fi Trickster then comes into play: he berates himself for his morals, or lack thereof; tries to course-correct with impossibly high standards; and lapses back into failure. Thus, he runs back to his tried-and-true lifestyle, basking in its toxicity and crowing that it reads 'safe' on the label.
Becca, however, doesn't accept that from him, forcing her father to face failure over and over (and over); and over time, this eats and eats (and eats) away at him until he must choose to move forward or lapse back into fear. That fear swiftly turns into a conviction that he'll never be able to change, which starts the second phase of his self-hating spiral.
Because he spirals into further self-hatred, Hank's anguish then lashes out at the people he loves the most, hurting them in turn. Hank then ruminates and agonizes dispiritedly, resigning himself to never being 'good enough' for anyone. Instead of fixing his faults, he hyper-fixates on the other person's hurt, begging for forgiveness but refusing to forgive himself. That person becomes a reminder of all the wrongs he's done until the pain is so great he withdraws, either minimizing the relationship or cutting it off completely.
Rarely is this a full-on devastating spiral: often the scenario is a routine argument that follows these motions, or a bad week or a few bad weeks that is cleared up and rectified. Mostly, these spirals serve as a wake-up call to ESTPs: a behavioral mirror to prove that Hank needs to get into his head and sort a few things out. Maggie Scully had a few of these moments sprinkled throughout the series (an implied rift when her younger daughter joined the FBI, her daughter's withdrawal when she was diagnosed with cancer, etc.); but chose to learn from her mistakes and grow as a person.
But Hank, again, doesn't want to change. So, how are these relationship 'oopsies' unhealthily resolved?
Absolution...
Hank Moody lives and dies by justifications. As discussed above, his 'rose-colored glasses' philosophy allows him to get away with murder by permitting others to get away with their own crimes as well; but if the current catastrophe is his fault and his fault alone, Hank immediately seeks out that justification through absolution.
Namely, he picks fights. By fighting about the issue, it allows him and the other person to blow off steam, feel better, swap acknowledgements, and move on with a feeling of accomplishment while not having changed a thing. Hank craves being told what he did was understandable in some way or other-- it allows him the ability to shift and share blame, then feel justified when both exonerates the other. Further, it builds up goodwill for the next big mistake he makes and allows him to dodge the reality that he's failed, hardcore, in the present. He spirals, yes, in the minutes to hours that the fight lasts; then he settles, content that he's 'not all that bad', that he's even loveable, that he doesn't have to face the fear that he'll never, really, be able to change.
Maggie Scully behaves similarly in Memento Mori, ranting at her daughter (spoken through her wounded Fe Child) before sweeping it all under the rug once Dana Scully didn't rebuke her outburst. However, Maggie's blow up is 'understandable' (there's that word, again), since it seemed to be a one-off, stress-induced reaction. Hank's behaviors? Not so much.
...Repeating Mistakes
Once absolution is achieved, stasis is reattained, and no forward progress is made. Because of that, Hank repeats the entire cycle all over again: Se+Fe living in the moment; Ni Inferior flopping between ill-advised choices; Fi Trickster soothing a sense of immoral self-loathing with wine, women, and song; surrounding himself with low-bar company to excuse his own bad behavior; perpetuating abusive or toxic cycles; and, ultimately, spiraling into self-hatred, acting out, and seeking others' absolution instead of earning their forgiveness.
How Hank Moody Can 'Grow Up'
Boiling it all down, Hank Moody is petrified by failure; but his low threshold for moral understanding (Fi Trickster), his inability to stick to one 'fix-it' route for fear of choosing wrong and losing his freedom (Ni Inferior), and his constant failures hurting his loved ones (Fe Child) keep him from taking the next step in his character development. As a child, Hank wasn't shown that it's okay to keep trying and keep losing until he eventually won; as an adult, his personality is wired around helping others improve... but Moody is stuck, because he doesn't believe he can improve.
Well, how can Hank prove (to himself) that he can 'grow up'? Simple: by tackling his Ni Inferior.
Firstly, Mr. Moody must learn to make choices; it will prove to him how largely unfounded his fears are. Not only will he always be given a second (and a third and a fourth and so on) option down the line, but he will also prove to himself that he can make sound decisions without destroying everything he's afraid to lose.
Secondly: remember how Mr. Moody could meet a person once, jot down their character, and refuse to deviate from that initial assumption? He's shot himself in the most valuable foot: with wisdom, Te Critic learns that those initial assumptions are often biased, incomplete, or wrong; and because those initial assumptions are often wrong, Hank is missing out on the smarts that person has to offer: he must learn to outsource. Asking for feedback and running his choices and decisions by another person first provides an outlet for him to gain a clearer understanding and-- because he is 'locked out' internally-- thoroughly develop his thoughts and opinions. But he must do so wisely: not simply accepting the first answer he's given (another Ni Inferior pit fall), but taking the time to weigh all the pros and cons.
And lastly, Mr. Moody must learn to give others the choice to reject him, realizing that his zeal to avoid rejection strips them of the right to leave or stay of their own freewill. If his friends or family don't choose to stay of their own accord, then Hank can't truly accept that they love, forgive, completely absolve, and want to continue forward with him.
If Hank Moody can take on an important decision, not wig out, ask for advice, choose wisely, and wait until life proves to him that this is not the end of the world, he will finally be able to face himself in the mirror with unshakeable, worthy pride. And it will go a long way in his forward journey and healing process.
Thank you for reading~!
Enjoy!
Dedication: Thanks to @dd-is-my-guiltypleasure and @perpetually-weirdening for fanning the flames of curiosity-- this Hank Moody post wouldn't have existed without the both of you.
Disclaimers: This is a self-assessed analysis. This information is not based on the abominable MBTI system (which has been butchered from its original Jungian typology since ~WWII); instead, it’s a combination between the works of Jung’s type psychology, Dr. Linda Berens’ Communication styles, Dr. Dario Nardi’s EEG brain scan compiled research, and others’ data and practices as compiled and simplified by CSJoseph. This system is based only on the Nature side of Nature/Nurture; and each “type” is not a “box” to fit everyone into– simply a tool to help understand the basics of the human mind that science has only begun to fathom in its limited scope.
I wanted to whip you up a post that had a few of your interests all blended in one; and-- wouldn't you know?-- it has an INTP main lead, too!
Now, let's attempt to type these characters as they run amok with two leopards, a yappy dog, butterfly nets, leashes, and not one braincell shared amongst them.
MAIN CHARACTERS
David Huxley- INTP
“Now it isn’t that I don’t like you, Susan; because, after all, in moments of quiet I’m strangely drawn towards you. But… well, there haven’t been any quiet moments.”
David Huxley is an INTP, which places him neatly as a Background Type and trips him right into the Intellectuals (xNTx) group. Background Communication Types are Informative (discuss a topic while providing all the possible information without taking a decisive stand on anything, allowing the other person to decide their own role in the mutual conversation), Responding (prefer to wait for the other person to initiate a conversation, then stay in the passive role while allowing the conversation to be guided by someone else), and Outcome (value the goal of the journey, carefully planning their steps to a specific endpoint and deliberately taking a measured pace to obtain the right result the first time.)
David’s 8 cognitive functions dictate how his brain intakes information, processes it, and makes decisions.
INTPs leads with Ti Hero, which is all about distilled logic, “if this then that”, facts, verification, criticism, and deductive filters: if it doesn’t make sense, it isn’t true (hence his near infuriated frustration with Susan Vance’s illogical nature and decisions.)
Ne Parent balances the Hero function: it is constantly aware of others’ intentions and the end results of other people’s choices; and that instinct is always right (which is why David is always spot on with assessing how much trouble Susan will get into… and how much she gets him into.) Not only does Ne Parent allow them to become masters of “I told you so”, but it also makes them spot patterns of human behavior easily… and become easily bored with human nature's predictability (which is why he ends up falling for Susan, who he can’t predict and who keeps the thrills coming; because INTPs have a bit of the thrill seeker in them, and this one in particular found he really likes them.)
Si Child is capable of incredible, unwavering steadfastness, conviction, endurance, discipline, and faith; and to “abuse” the child would be to imply an INTP is, somehow, disloyal-- which sends them into apathy mode, not caring if the accuser sticks around or leaves (hence why David isn’t too fussed about his fiancee leaving after she implied he was a philanderer.)
Fe Inferior (the last of the four dominant functions) is easily guilted as it fears making other people feel badly; which, in turn, allows them to be easily maneuvered, exploited, and rug matted all in the name of being a good person (hence why David won’t walk away from Susan, despite all her messes-- because he is compelled to help her out of them.) If INTPs are accused of being uncaring, they shift into protective (and havoc-wrecking) Demon mode: their apathy kicks in, and that person becomes effectively dead to them (again, what happens with his fiancée, but also his “who cares what others think of me anymore” attitude by the end of the film.)
Te Nemesis is in constant battle with the Hero function (serving as its “villain” to war with and become stronger for it): Te is all about outsourcing information or opinions to others around them; and it challenges (and thereby worries) the Ti’s logic to see if it’s “out of date.” If an INTP is wise, this will force them to outsource their current information, ridding themselves of stagnant or outdated facts (which is what David learns to do with Susan: constantly check in with her to see what new story or lie she has concocted so he isn’t caught off-guard.)
Ni Critic is the cynical parent figure to the Parent function: it takes note of Ne Parent’s observations-- that no one is responsible with what they want-- and chooses not to want anything, which locks the INTP into a paralysis or inaction. This is why INTPs become so solitary or stuck in unproductive (and unhealthy) ruts, professionally and personally (as David does with his first relationship: wanting to marry a partner who railroaded him without apology), and are drawn to (and can fall back into) the familiarity of those cycles-- healthy or toxic-- for comfort’s sake (being drawn to Susan who overrides his concerns like Alice did… but at least Susan reflects and changes whereas Alice never did.)
Se Trickster, the bane of an INTP’s existence: they have no physical awareness, whether that be how they come off to others, their comfort over aesthetics fashion sense, or the various potholes, ditches, sidewalks, cars, or other places they fall into or flat on. However, they are masters at remembering how to spot and avoid various Se Trickster traps when trained (ex. David never getting caught in the same kerfuffle twice, even though he gets roped into an entirely new faux pas via Susan’s next misadventure.)
And lastly, Fi Demon pops up when INTPs have been hurt either by their Si Child (calling them disloyal or flaky… or a “butterfly”) or their Fe Inferior (that they aren't caring enough despite the shirt being guilted off their backs): full-on depraved debauchery-- anything that will self-soothe or make INTPs feel good is indulged and indulged and indulged, effectively causing willful self-destruction (David snapping in Susan’s white robe at her aunt and snarkily commenting in the jail cell are moments where his Fi Demon is starting to come out. They end rather quickly because new developments happen so fast that they shake the situation up-- and by proxy his annoyance or aggravation.)
Susan Vance- ESFP
"Oh, David, if only I could make you understand-- you see, all that happened happened because I was trying to keep you near me and I just did anything that came into my head."
Susan Vance is an ESFP, flinging her in the Starter category and jamming her into the Artisans (xSxP) group. Starter Communication Types are Informative (communicates all possible information while discussing a topic without taking a decisive stand in the conversation), Initiating (seeking out others in social situations, starting conversations, and keeping others in the information loop), and Progression nee Movement (moving toward any result without a fixed destination, plan, or outcome because they fear inaction and stagnation more than optimizing for the best outcome.)
Susan’s 8 cognitive functions help her intake, analyze, and process information so she can output them with decisions.
Se Hero took me by surprise: normally, Se is completely in-tune with the physical world around them (its performance, finesse, observation, and physicality of a person’s body as well as the tangible realm around it.) However, Susan is such a klutz that I thought there was no way she as an ESFP-- but facts don’t lie, and the other assets of Se (short term memory, seeing what others are doing and wanting to participate or involve others in its activities) fit her to a T (not to mention, one of her last lines-- admitting her shenanigans aren't well thought-out because she wanted to keep David around-- clarifies why she is so out of tune with her Se Hero: desperation.)
Fi Parent is there to keep ESFPs responsible with their morality to behave socially or ethically. The problem is that this translates-- to an immature ESFP-- that they must have others think they are good people to feel good about themselves even if they truthfully aren't (which is why Susan collapses in tears when it finally dawns on her that David doesn’t really like her… which prompts his Fe Inferior to comfort her) rather than reflecting or putting any work into themselves to become a good person (although she changes this about herself by the end of the film.)
Te Child is smart, very very smart, with an incredible field of knowledge (which explains how Susan knows so many odds and ends tricks, i.e. lockpicking, olive throwing, purse snatching, etc.); but is easily wounded by others’ assumptions that an ESFP isn’t smart or believable (which is why she is hurt by some of David's assumptions and also why she creates an elaborate alternate identity that the cops and psychologists would believe while in jail.)
Ni Inferior is unconquerable in achieving anything they put their mind to… to a point, as ESFPs often hold themselves back from their plans because they fear it won’t work (i.e. Susan losing confidence in her madcap strategies the more the film dragged on, which led to her more active Ni Inferior in the climax and end of the film-- understanding how much trouble she gets David into and wishing to atone for her ways.)
Si Nemesis worries that it lacks discipline, duty, and honor, which forces ESFPs to evaluate themselves constantly and fear that tomorrow might not be as good as today. To overcome this failure to decide anything, they must exercise maturity by fulfilling the obligations and commitments they’ve made that they can’t seem to, or are afraid to, finish (which is why Susan dragged David with her everywhere: because without him, she wouldn’t have done any of those things-- just floated around and worried.)
Fe Critic is super selfish and hypocritical, wanting the best for themselves while thinking the other person hasn’t earned it; and ESFPs have to learn not to assume the worst in others because it reflects their own poor character back on themselves (i.e. Susan not meeting Alice but immediately wanting what she has-- David-- for herself; and then learning she doesn’t really "deserve" David, regardless.)
Ti Trickster believes that there are no absolutes, that anything can be true or false, and overall can’t figure out how to logic a situation. If they learn to take the time to carefully evaluate and assess thoroughly before making a decision (taking in everything before acting first), ESFPs will then become master strategists, angling her solution different ways until everyone wants to take a bite (her first conversation with the constable, her conversations with Aunt Elizabeth and Major Applegate, and her big charade with the police in jail.)
Ne Demon is activated when they are given no freedom of choice, causing them to strip everyone else of that freedom, too (ex. Aunt Elizabeth holds a million dollars over her head, so Susan holds that million and a leopard and a bone and the dog over David’s; and later, Susan also holds a faux fess-up in-exchange for her freedom over the police's heads.)
MINOR CHARACTERS
Alice Swallow- ESTJ
"Stop it! Really, David, there's a time and place for everything."
Alice Swallow (David Huxley’s overbearing fiancée) is an ESTJ, setting her into the Structure category and slotting her in the Guardians (xSxJ) group. Structure Communication Types are Direct (communicate in clear, specific, and concise language so that there is no doubt behind their intent), Initiating (take an active role in conversation or social situations, seeking others out to keep them informed or “in the loop” ), and Outcome (value the carefully planned, focused, and deliberate steps to achieve the right end goal the first time.)
Her 8 cognitive functions dictate how Alice’s brain intakes, processes, and outputs information to analyze and make decisions.
Te Hero: metrics, achievements, reputation, societal standards, labels, beliefs, and rules (which is why Alice immediately squashes David’s physical affection while both are in front of a superior, stating “There’s a time and place for everything. What will Professor think?”)
Si Parent gives ESTJs a drive to experience everything once, but tempers it with vast amounts of self-discipline and duty (i.e. Alice getting married but insisting she and David come right back to the museum, curtailing both their present and future for “his work”) and responsible, tested-and-tried loyalty (which is why she immediately breaks off her engagement after learning about David’s “disloyalty.”)
Ne Child dabbles in metaphysics, seeing all possibilities and somehow making anything come true by pulling a few strings (hooking David up with an interview to get a donation of a million dollars, for instance.)
Fi Inferior is afraid they lack the principles to be moral enough; but if they seek meaning and prove their worth, there is no one who can invest more into values or people (declaring "Oh, David, what did you do?!" can be a sign of Fi Inferior; because if David messes everything up, then Alice has cosigned her reputation to his foolery.)
Ti Nemesis is the reverse of David Huxley’s process: Te Hero’s aggregated knowledge is constantly picked at by the nagging voice of “that doesn’t make sense”, causing them to verify the accuracy of their collected beliefs (which is what Alice does not do at the end of the film.)
Se Critic creates elitist hypocriticism in ESTJs: appearance, to them, represents intelligence; and they heavily criticize others that are a bit off or have a hair out of place (reproving her fiancé for his slang) while not noticing their own inappropriate apparel or behavior (talking down to David next to both their superior.)
Ni Trickster tricks ESTJs into thinking they know what they want when they don’t-- never let them make big decisions alone, let alone mutual ones (hence why her plans for their future are so unattainable and wouldn’t have lasted long for either Alice or David.)
And lastly, Fe Demon ruptures if ESTJs are accused of being unfeeling or uncaring: they are very loving and caring but express it differently. If they aren’t given their dues, they strip away their care and vindictively take away that other person’s ability to receive care from others, usually by offering them love on a platter… which turns out to be poisoned (ex. Alice getting fed up with her fiancé’s actions and “lovingly” or "calmly" or "peacefully" giving him sole blame in the end.)
Alexander Peabody- ESTP
"Dr. Huxley, when I play golf I only talk golf. And then only between shots."
Alexander Peabody is an ESTP, putting him in the Structure category and placing him in the Artisans (xSxP) group. Structure Communication Types are Direct (communicate in clear, specific, and concise language so that there is no doubt behind their intent), Initiating (take an active role in conversation or social situations, seeking others out to keep them informed or “in the loop” ), and Outcome (value the carefully planned, focused, and deliberate steps to achieve the right end goal the first time.)
His 8 cognitive functions dictate how Alexander’s brain perceives and outputs information.
Se Hero is an observer and master of the physical environment as well as the people in it, as effortlessly good at directing others (David Huxley, the constable, and psychiatrist) as well as his golf balls.
Ti Parent is skeptical over what others state is true or false, requiring tangible proof before they make final judgements or decisions (which is why he came to the jail before stating definitively his client wasn’t there.)
Fe Child is very loving and giving, willing to hand out prizes and favors to anyone close by (or a million dollars and a dinner to talk it over to David); however, ESTPs are deeply wounded if someone takes the unfiltered truth (and sometimes harsh truth) of their Ti Parent and uses it to label them as uncaring, unfeeling, or even malevolent.
Ni Inferior makes ESTPs (and ESFPs like Susan Vance) afraid of making the wrong decision, tying them up in indecision (hence why he wants a second conversation with David Huxley to absolutely know for sure before making a final decision.)
Si Nemesis fears that they are not dutiful enough to carry out the demands of whatever the future holds, again contributing to their indecisive nature (i.e. previous example.)
Te Critic assumes everyone else is stupid, including massive societal structures, sources, or even religions; and ESTPs must individually test every single thing they’re told, lighting the falsehoods on fire and clutching the tried-and-true to themselves forever (again, dropping into the jail personally with promise of swift punishment if proven correct.)
Fi Trickster believes anything can be good or bad, leading them to have (basically) no moral principles and to do what they believe is good or bad for them (ex. being hurt that “David” impolitely throws a rock at his head instead of being affrighted that “David” is scrounging around in his yard late at night.)
And Ne Demon (like Susan Vance the ESFP) will destroy everyone else’s freedom of choice if they aren’t given it (hinging the donation of a million dollars on his terms-- golfing and dinner-- and seriously thinking of revoking it when David Huxley skips out both times.)
Dr. Lehman- ISTJ
"I have no doubt you will find you made a very important haul."
Dr. Lehman is an ISTJ, stamping him in the Finisher category and check marking his status in the Guardians (xSxJ) group. Finisher Communication Types are Direct (communicating clearly in concise language leaving no doubt as to their intent), Responding (letting the other person initiate and guide a conversation, or waiting for others to keep them “in the loop”), and Progression nee Movement (always progressing forward without a specific goal in mind-- movement is better than stagnation, the journey is more enjoyable than the endpoint.)
The 8 cognitive functions of Dr. Lehman’s Type help him perceive, process, and output information.
Si Hero is defined by duty: loyalty, endurance, faith, effort, steadfastness, habit, and sharing; and an immature ISTJ is more willing to boast about what it can endure rather than be humble in what it has endured. ISTJs crave loyalty; and will discipline themselves to give the best “experiences” (how they come across to others) to earn that loyalty, striving to be "above reproach."
Te Parent is all about names and titles-- metrics, rules, labels, reputation-- desiring those accolades for itself (and thinking it’s earned a VIP status with all the hard work ISTJs put in to polish themselves.) It also seeks a proper routine, system, or algorithm to quickly find, evaluate, and streamline beliefs or reference points. They rely heavily on this framework, using it to figure out why people behave irrationally (hence why he immediately diagnoses David Huxley one nothing more than a simple, one-sided question from Susan Vance.)
Fi Child has miraculous sympathy, but is often ignored by other people because of an ISTJ’s “soulless” pursuit of trying to understand life with their metrics and tried-and-true rules (i.e. when he distances himself from his and the constable’s mistakes after Mr. Peabody insinuates what terrible people those mistakes would make them-- and it also affected his Si Hero's "above board" reputation.)
Ne Inferior is afraid of the “what ifs” and metaphysics and intangibles of life; but once they use common sense to walk themselves through every possibility, ISTJs no longer fear or catastrophize their future (ex. Dr. Lehman almost losing his cool over the purse mix-up.)
Se Nemesis feeds into their Si Hero: ISTJs worry they are giving others a bad Se experience, which would smack them right in the face of their Si; so, they work overtime to check and check and check this blind spot constantly (for instance, whenever Dr. Lehman corrects his posture or monocle or carefully seats his wife at the table.)
Ti Critic assumes ISTJs are the smartest people in the room; and believes the other person is guilty because they perceived that person as guilty (assuming and affirming Susan Vance is insane because he misinterprets her actions, for example.) ISTJs must be made to verify these beliefs, comparing their initial impressions with actual facts.
Fe Trickster gives ISTJs zero social awareness-- hence why they come off as robotic or disconnected to some people-- and blinds them to the fact that others do not share the same values or goals that they do. Those others can then read an ISTJ's disinterest in the subjectives of societal or social norms as terrible or heartless behavior, which kicks an ISTJ’s Fi Child in the ribs and sets off their demon function.
Ni Demon becomes a high-chair tyrant if an ISTJ’s needs aren’t met: catapulted by the fear of others’ intent (Ne Inferior) and further goaded by someone accusing their Fi Child, ISTJs will launch into a self-indulgent focus on only themselves and their needs, seeing that their detractors have abused their Si Hero’s willingness to honor the Te Parent rules (and is why Dr. Lehman leaves the constable to bear the brunt of the mistake alone: Lehman thinks he did everything right and the constable did everything wrong-- especially after observing said constable's lack of interrogation techniques; and doesn't think he deserves any blame for the series of misadventures that unfolded.)
Mrs. Lehman- ISTP?
"Frederick, where is my purse?"
Mrs. Lehman is just a guess, but I'll put her down as an ISTP, sliding into the Finisher category and settling into the Artisans (xSxP) group. Finisher Communication Types are Direct (clear, concise, precise communication leaving no room for misinterpretation), Responding (preferring that the other person to initiate and guide a conversation), and Progression nee Movement (forward movement and a wonky end product is better than some of the stagnation that comes with measured planning for the perfect end goal.)
Mrs. Lehman’s 8 cognitive functions help her intake and output information and make quick, actionable decisions (and is a near perfect match to her husband’s ISTJ Type.)
Ti Hero is identical to David Huxley’s Ti Hero; but their differences become very pronounced with her Se Parent, which is a very physical, actionable, “fix things with my own bare hands” function (i.e. grabbing at her purse from David’s hands before bossing her husband to fix the problem… the implication being “before I do.”)
Se Parent is also responsible with its physical and mechanical prowess, using it to get others out of destructive comfort zones and to team up with their Ti Hero to become excellent hands-on teachers.
Ni Child is the equivalent of literal, definable “lady luck”-- somehow surviving impossible scenarios with very little injuries or long term consequences (in Mrs. Lehman’s case, getting her purse and diamond broach back intact because it wasn't even stolen.)
ISTPs share Fe Inferior and Te Nemesis with INTPs (David Huxley)-- fear of making others feel bad and worrying if others are factually correct respectively-- but differ with Si Critic: they have a hard time committing to anything or anyone, yet expect others to commit to them. Once ISTPs develop self-discipline, they then also have to admit that they have the memory of a goldfish while erroneously thinking that they, an elephant, never forget.
Ne Trickster thinks that something isn’t real until they can touch it or see it, which leaves them weak to others’ intentions and open to covert or subtle attacks; and when the bus hits, they scramble to figure out what happened.
And lastly, Fi Demon self-soothes via the INTP method: depraved debauchery all the way down.
Aunt Elizabeth- ENTJ
"Heh. Susan, imagine giving a dinner party with your husband stalking like Hamlet's ghost all through the meal."
Aunt Elizabeth Random is an ENTJ, zipping her into the Structure category and firmly squeezing her into the Intellectuals (xNTx) group. Structure Communication Types are Direct (communicate in clear, specific, and concise language so that there is no doubt behind their intent), Initiating (take an active role in conversation or social situations, seeking others out to keep them informed or “in the loop”), and Outcome (value the carefully planned, focused, and deliberate steps to achieve the right end goal the first time.)
Aunt Elizabeth uses 8 cognitive functions to make decisions, perceive the world around her, and process new and startling information.
Te Hero is focused on the beliefs-- what the collective believes to be true having greater weight than what the meager dissenters prove to be true-- as well as the rules, the metrics, the systems, and the titles of the world around them. They work hard to earn and wear their accolades with pride (ex. Aunt Elizabeth expecting others to respect her requests or demands because of her family name), rising up any successful ladder with diligence, speed, and focus.
Ni Parent wants everything responsibly, letting themselves give in to very little of their temptations-- and only then because of their Se Child.
Se Child is the epitome of a kid at a birthday party, spoiling themselves and others with quality excess and delighting in both receiving and giving (or, in Aunt Elizabeth’s case, having her nephew ship a leopard so she can keep it as her extravagant pet.)
ENTJs share Fi Inferior and Ti Nemesis with ESTJs (Alice Swallow)-- afraid they aren’t moral enough and worried they aren’t intelligent enough respectively-- but their Ne Critic separates the path again: ENTJs feel abandonment more than any other Type, and constantly assume others will betray them constantly. This leads them to loyalty check those closest to them constantly (ex. Aunt Elizabeth calling her own niece crazy and second-guessing if she should give her a million dollars.)
Se Trickster forgets EVERYTHING; and they need constant reminders or notes to refresh their recollection. As a result, their brain latches onto only the most important information… which are their worst memories because of the self-preservation paranoia of the Ne Critic (and causes Aunt Elizabeth to remember most clearly the things that annoy her presently or hurt her in the past.)
Lastly, Fe Demon ruins everyone else’s opportunities to feel loved or connected if an ENTJ’s Se Child is accused of being unloving or uncaring (which Aunt Elizabeth never had an opportunity to exercise.)
Major Applegate - ENFJ
"Gentle as a kitten? Well, I don't know you why didn't mention that before--"
Major Applegate is an ENFJ, hopping him into the Structure category and pinning him soundly in the Idealists (xNFx) group. Structure Communication Types are Direct (naturally communicated clearly, concisely, and precisely so that nothing is misconstrued from their intent), Initiating (chooses an active role in social situations, seeking others out to keep them “in the loop”), and Outcome (deliberately plan their steps to reach a perfect end point or achievement.)
Major Applegate uses his 8 cognitive functions to perceive, inform, judge, and process the world and information around him.
Fe Hero is tied directly to inclusivity, acceptance, collective ethics, support, and bonds, striving to outreach and care for those around them (ex. Major Applegate trying to help Susan with the correct time, teaching Aunt Elizabeth a leopard’s call, trying to help David and Susan catch the wrong leopard, and correcting Aunt Elizabeth’s error about her niece not being in jail.)
ENFJs share their Ni Parent and Se Child with ENTJs-- responsible with their wants and extravagant with their sharing-- but their Ti Inferior is their own: ENFJs are afraid they are unintelligent or incorrect, often being portrayed as the stereotypical dumb blonde. In reality, they are quite smart but largely held back by the implication or accusation of being stupid (i.e. Major Applegate stumbling over his words in the police station when the constable and his men start to look at him funny.)
Fi Nemesis is worried about their own moral self worth, overcoming their doubts by doing good and helping other humans (for instance, “saving” Aunt Elizabeth from the leopard and teaming up with Gogarty to hunt it down.)
ENFJs also share Ne Critic (assuming others will betray them) and Si Trickster (forgetting everything but the worst moments) with ENTJs; but separate once more with the Demon function.
Te Demon destroys the voice of others when no one will listen to them, especially if their Inferior has been trampled consistently and labelled as "worthless." They then squash and trample and make themselves be heard; and if they still aren’t, ENFJs rip the structure out from underneath everyone and let them fall to their destruction (Major Applegate never got that far, but the equivalent would be to not correct Aunt Elizabeth’s assumption and let everyone stay in jail and out of his hair.)
Aloysius Gogarty- INFP
Aloysius Gogarty is an INFP, setting him into the Background category and startling him into the Idealists (xNFx) group. Background Communication Types are Informative (discuss a topic while providing all the possible information without taking a decisive stand on anything, allowing the other person to decide their own role in the mutual conversation), Responding (wait for the other person to initiate a conversation, then stay in the passive role while allowing the conversation to be guided by someone else), and Outcome (value the goal more than the journey, carefully planning their specific endpoint and taking deliberate steps to obtain the right result the first time.)
Aloysius uses 8 cognitive functions to perceive, make, and output impressions into decisions.
Fi Hero is concerned about one’s own personal morals: their principles, their investment, their worth, and their mood. INFPs mature from their initial pride about what they value (ex. Gogarty complaining about the double standards of the house’s raucous meal and his own expected behavior) to tempered humility about said moral values.
INFPs share Ne Parent (ability to “predict” the outcome and consequences of everyone’s decisions) and Si Child (deeply wounded if they are accused of being disloyal) with INTPs (David Huxley); but differ with their Inferior function.
Te Inferior is a collector of others’ knowledge and opinions, becoming unrivaled in its scope of information (if it chooses.) However, INFPs are afraid of what others think of them-- their reputation is everything to them; and they need others to think well of them even if those things might not be true (ex. Gogarty lying about petting the leopard to Major Applegate and immediately starting a fight with the police when he is accused of stealing Dr. Lehman’s car.)
Fe Nemesis worries that it is selfish (because Fi Hero puts its needs above others’); and it moves mature INFPs to empathetically care for and serve others to fight that concern, either personally with their loved ones or publicly with volunteer work (for instance, Gogarty teaming up with Major Applegate’s natural inclination to protect everyone from the leopard.)
Again, INFPs share Ni Critic (avoiding risk with inaction) and Se Trickster (unaware of their surroundings and others' impressions of them) with INTPs; but they, again, separate at the Demon function.
Ti Demon rips its way out of their peaceable chest if no one thinks highly of them (Te Inferior) or listens to their input (Ne Parent), or if anyone casts aspersions on their loyalty (Si Child): INFPs will make sure no one else’s opinion matters, either, by building a trap for their tormentors with the truth. They then stand aside casually as their enemies fall into it one by one (Mr. Gogarty was never pushed this far; but there is an inkling of Ti Demon: cheerfully acknowledging his connection to Susan Vance after the police locked him up, expecting them to get in big, big trouble at the mention of her name.)
Constable Slocum- ISFP
"Young lady, it might interest you to know that you're under arrest."
Constable Slocum is an ISFP, fumbling him into the Background category and dumping him in the Artisans (xSxP) group. Background Communication Types are Informative (provides all the possible information about a topic without taking a decisive stand on it), Responding (prefers the more passive role in conversation or social situations), and Outcome (walks a measured pace so they can carefully plan the perfect plan for their perfect end point.)
Constable Slocum uses his 8 cognitive functions to perceive and process the world around him.
ISFPs share Fi Hero with INFPs (Aloysius Gogarty), concerned more with their own personal “good or bad” morals over “true or false” ethics.
ISFPs also share Se Parent (responsible mastery of the physical environment) and Ni Child (“lady luck” and feeling trapped if they are not given the freedom to make their own choices) with ISTPs (Mrs. Lehman.)
Again, they share Te Inferior (afraid for their reputation) and Fe Nemesis (worry that they are selfish) with INFPs.
And, again, they share Si Critic (expect commitment while being unwilling to commit) and Ne Trickster (unaware of others’ machinations) with ISTPs.
Even though ISFPs share their 8th function with INFPs, they have a different, more personalized “mode.” Ti Demon will let their enemies’ fall by the truth if they aren’t listened to, but while INFPs make the ultimate trap to passively snare their enemies, ISFPs will make the ultimate weapon to hands-on obliterate them (which is why Constable Slocum keeps threatening even more disastrous, personalized punishments the more his prisoners annoy him.)
Thank you for reading~
And, again, Happy (soon to be) Birthday, Anika! :DDD
Disclaimers: This is a self-assessed analysis. This information is not based on the abominable MBTI system (which has been butchered from its original Jungian typology since ~WWII); instead, it’s a combination between the works of Jung’s type psychology, Dr. Linda Berens’ Communication styles, Dr. Dario Nardi’s EEG complied research with brain scans, and others’ data and practices as compiled and simplified by CSJoseph. This system is based only on the Nature side of Nature/Nurture; and each “type” is not a “box” to fit everyone into– simply a tool to help understand the basics of the human mind that science has only begun to fathom in its limited scope.
**Note**: I am definitely not an expert, so these assessments are subject to change with corrections or scrutiny.
