ISFP

The Composer

The ISFP personality type is Introverted, Sensing, Feeling, and Perceiving. This combination of personality preferences produces people who rarely demand attention, are observant problem-solvers who see possibilities others miss, base their decisions on their instincts and values, and focus on enjoying the present. With a deep aesthetic streak and a natural talent for the arts, ISFPs appreciate and create beauty in their surroundings. Though ISFPs tend to be bold and spontaneous, seeking new experiences and ways to help others, they tend to become bored easily and can struggle with decision-making and planning for the future.

Kindred Spirits

People of the following types are more likely than most to share the ISFP’s values, interests, and general approach to life. They won’t necessarily agree on everything, and there’s no guarantee they’ll always get along, but they’re more likely to feel an easy rapport and have plenty of things in common.

Intriguing Differences

People of the following types are likely to strike the ISFP as similar in character, but with some key differences which may make them seem especially intriguing. The ISFP may find people of these types particularly interesting and attractive to get to know. Relationships between ISFPs and these types should have a good balance of commonalities and opportunities to challenge one another.

Potential Complements

ISFPs may not feel an immediate connection with people of the following types, but on getting to know each other, they’ll likely find they have some important things in common, as well as some things to teach one other. Although people of these types may not attract the ISFP initially, their relationships present a lot of potential to complement and learn from one other.

Challenging Opposites

People of the following types present the most potential for personality clash and conflict with the ISFP, but also the best opportunities for growth. Because people of these types have fundamentally different values and motivations from the ISFP’s, initially, it may seem impossible to relate. But because they are so different, their strengths are the ISFP’s weaknesses, and if they are able to develop a relationship, they can learn a tremendous amount from each other.

ISFPs in Love

In relationships, the ISFP is loyal, patient, and easygoing. ISFPs are eager to help and quickly perceive the needs of their partners and families. They often show affection with simple, practical gestures that make their loved ones feel comfortable and well taken care of. ISFPs like to maintain harmony and are very reluctant to engage in conflict. They may have difficulty asserting themselves and struggle with expressing feelings of anger or resentment. Ideally, they want to be cooperative and accommodate others, and may find themselves taken advantage of if their partners are not sensitive to their needs. ISFPs are tolerant and uncritical, and adapt easily to their surroundings. They like to go with the flow and enjoy life from moment to moment. An ideal mate for an ISFP takes the time to show spontaneous gestures of affection, and appreciates the ISFP’s kind and helpful nature.

ISFPs as Parents

As parents, ISFPs are warm and sensitive, and take joy in creating comfort and stability in their homes. ISFPs are attentive to their children's practical needs and step in quickly and gracefully to provide for them. They often enjoy caring for children, but can sometimes become overworked and exhausted because of their natural impulse to help. ISFP parents often seem calm and unflappable. ISFPs are private people and can be reserved or remote, so their children may not always grasp the depth of the ISFP parent's devotion to family. Although it is not often conspicuous, ISFPs have a deep loyalty to their loved ones. They value their intimate connections above all else and are tremendously dedicated to the care of their children.

For more information: Please Understand Me II

ISFP Communication Style

ISFPs are gentle, accepting communicators who tend to follow the flow of conversation and look for opportunities to contribute with factual information or practical help. They are easygoing and supportive; they don’t want to be in control or attract attention, and are often attentive listeners. Considerate and accepting, the ISFP often looks for common ground with others. ISFPs shy away from conflict or criticism, preferring harmonious, spontaneous interactions that allow them to be helpful and kind.

Molly Owens

Molly Owens is the founder and CEO of Truity. She is a graduate of UC Berkeley and holds a master's degree in counseling psychology. She began working with personality assessments in 2006, and in 2012 founded Truity with the goal of making robust, scientifically validated assessments more accessible and user-friendly. Molly is an ENTP and lives in the San Francisco Bay Area, where she enjoys elaborate cooking projects, murder mysteries, and exploring with her husband and son.