[LilacForest]

Hello! Number one, I should state that I was originally mistyped as an INTJ and then again (so I believe) as an INTP. I read a thread that led to the discussion of extraversion vs. introversion and found it intriguing. The general conversation turned that such a thing exists as a mental extravert and social introvert (and vice versa). I have had an understanding that the difference between them is essentially whether social situations cost energy or gain it.

Here are basic details essential to explaining my theory. I am an only child that grew up with an extended family of older cousins as well. (my youngest cousin being 11 years my senior). I had many friends when I was young but I didn't mind my own company. I was just as okay with playing by myself as I was with friends. While I do identify with many traits of being an INTP, half of my personality did not adhere to the description. So, I thought "What if I am a mental extravert and social introvert? I find myself a bit more energetic and impish then the typical INTP, among other things. I read the description of ENTP children's development to my ISFP mother, the accuracy had her in tears and I related to a lot more of it myself.

I am trying to elicit the opinions of others whom may be acquainted with this kind of situation. I am jovial and friendly towards others if they initiate conversation with me. I want to be liked/revered by other people but in ways of individuality. When I was younger (toddler) my mother said I was a happy child all of the time, I would walk up to children at the park and ask them to play. On my first day of preschool, my mother drove past the entrance to look for parking. As she did I looked at her and announced that she could drop me off there. Independent, strong willed, jovial, curious/inquisitive, and imaginative were the words she chose to describe me.

I believe I was under the misconception that I am an introvert because I can go long periods of time alone without care. But this solitary carelessness could just be the result of being an only child by myself a lot. I am use to being in my own company so it's natural it doesn't bother me. Also, I am reserved around those I am not familiar with until I am done mentally analyzing them (a process which can take months) but ultimately I enjoy being around people I like, and gain energy from it. I often do not like my peers which is why I don't waste energy trying to befriend those I don't hold respect for. (While I am amicable when spoken to by them, I don't try to be their friend) But with people I take a liking to when I meet them, and friends: I am vivacious, bubbly, whimsical, funny, and empathetic. Could I have mistaken my common dislike for incompetence/ignorance in my peers, initial shyness, and solitary behaivor as introversion? I wouldn't know if I am well liked by most people, but I don't see why I wouldn't be.

I decided not to rely on my cognitive functions to decide my 4 letter type, although it IS certain I have a rational (NT) temperament. I chose not to look at my cognitive functions because I do not believe an individual can be completely aware of their problem solving processes unless in the heat of a problem. I don't really trust myself XD

Even if one person reads and comments on my thought-tangent theory, it would be much appreciated. :D


Sorry for any grammatical errors, I do not currently have time to correct them.

[Agelaius]

I'm at work so I don't have much time to do a full reply but I'd certainly agree with your thoughts. After all, extroverts gain energy from external people and ideas, among other things. I imagine that even in solitude you're surrounded by other things sort of probing your mind, spurring your interest of sorts. I'm taking a little bit of a gamble in that assumption, but I make it because I'm much the same way as an ENFP (something about that Ne-dom). I like being around good company, but I LOVE being introduced or bombarded with interesting ideas and concepts that just motivate to no end! The whole social part is a bit misinterpreted by many, I imagine, so certainly very common among "typical" extroverts.

So... yeah. Tl;dr: I agree :D

[zynthaxx]

Hello! Number one, I should state that I was originally mistyped as an INTJ and then again (so I believe) as an INTP.
(..)
I decided not to rely on my cognitive functions to decide my 4 letter type, although it IS certain I have a rational (NT) temperament. I chose not to look at my cognitive functions because I do not believe an individual can be completely aware of their problem solving processes unless in the heat of a problem. I don't really trust myself XD

I recognize myself to a large extent in your post. I too originally tested as INTJ, then INTP, and I was quite certain I was a rational (NT) until I read a good description of the ISTP type, which made everything make sense.
Being an ISTP would account for both your form of introversion, your independency, your identifying with the NT temperament (because of dominant Ti and tertiary Ni) and being "more impish" than what you'd expect from an INTP.

[NovaStar]

I know an INTP (typed by professionals even) that is quite sociable, although she hates drawn-out situations and needs time to herself. That is the definition of an Introvert. Even though she can handle social situations pretty well (she's actually rather outgoing), she gets tired of it very quickly. Being a sociable Introvert, therefore, seems perfectly plausible.

Being a 'mental' Extrovert is still possible, just not as likely. The more heavily Extroverted you are, the more intense you'll be. Someone heavily Extroverted, for example, may have a natural tendency to leap before looking. However, if you've developed your auxiliary Introverted function (Ti, in this case), you probably have adopted some INTP-like traits. For example, Ti is a 'look before you leap' function, and it's also more intrinsically focused (well-developed Introverted functions normally are). You may have just developed that function more over time like I have, hence the similarities.

I took a test that gave me three possibilities (it was designed that way): #1 has always been ENTP; #2 has always been INTP; #3 has always been INTJ. I think Ne + Ti (when balanced right) can come across as some sort of Ni, hence why it seems I have a more developed Ni than most ENTPs (yet I still use Fe about as much as any other ENTP). My Ne and Ti almost always rank equally, with Ne getting a .01% dominance on some days. I take the test once every four or five months, sometimes varying it with other good tests. I also value the input from people that know me well (and the MBTI system), and they've confirmed my results over the years.

So yes, you can be a 'somewhat' solitary ENTP that wants to spread his/her ideas, but are unable to because nobody cares. Hence why I myself have become somewhat more cautious around people, observing them for about a month or two before seriously trying to speak to them. But that's life experiences at work, not personality.

[Boolean11]

Hello! Number one, I should state that I was originally mistyped as an INTJ and then again (so I believe) as an INTP. I read a thread that led to the discussion of extraversion vs. introversion and found it intriguing. The general conversation turned that such a thing exists as a mental extravert and social introvert (and vice versa). I have had an understanding that the difference between them is essentially whether social situations cost energy or gain it.

Introversion is merely a personality influenced by a "subjective layer" not an "objective one". It has little to do with behaviour as Carl Jung defined, though statistics point towards introverts being less social on average. Well that is my 2cents over the likely origin of the stereotype. I try to explain it in this little comparison, hope it helps:

ENTP vs INTP
An extrovert will merely start to intuit the deluge of possibilities irrespective of whether an objective criteria for analysis has set strongly. A lead Ne type will look through a lot more data since they aren't quick to cast a classification onto it. Thus they are more likely to entertain potentially unnecessary Ne data compared to their introverted counter part whose prone more to classify. However on the contrary the extrovert is less likely to have a lot of the ideas processed since their bias is towards perception.

With the introvert, the key difference is that they'll start with a set classification criteria that is much more strongly set. Therefore when gathering the deluge of possibilities, they are going to be a lot more rigid and far quicker to discard unnecessary pathways due to the classification being strongly set (thus a bit more closed-minded, quicker to judge). These guys won't have the greater patience to perceive unlike lead Ne, hence the subjective layer is strong in the personality. On the contrary the lead judger is will have a lot more thing processed and classified due to the natural orientation towards that.

ENTJ vs INTJ
With the Js the process is extremely similar. Except with the extrovert, their psyche will start by amassing a deluge of objective/externally justified logic. After the facts honed in, the interpretation begins and thats where the Ni/Ne difference emerge. With Ni being chaos internally, creating multiple path ways of understanding for given subject all based on "internal logic" which the psyche shuns due paradoxical ideas being held, the external evidence has to be employed to control the chaos making it easier to reach understanding. The extrovert (like the INTP) will not perceive enough due to their orientation towards classification thus equally they are a bit more close minded, quicker to judge.

The introvert will function here will function more like the (ENTP) being having a higher likelihood of entertaining large amounts of data before classification. These guys will look through a lot more chaos, Ni's "paradoxical" models of understanding before reaching classification. And similarly they are less likely to have more data classified in compared to their extroverted judger cousin (ENTJ). However similarly like the INTP, these guys are regarded as introverts due to the subjective layer influencing the personality.

[LilacForest]

I know an INTP (typed by professionals even) that is quite sociable, although she hates drawn-out situations and needs time to herself. That is the definition of an Introvert. Even though she can handle social situations pretty well (she's actually rather outgoing), she gets tired of it very quickly. Being a sociable Introvert, therefore, seems perfectly plausible.

Being a 'mental' Extrovert is still possible, just not as likely. The more heavily Extroverted you are, the more intense you'll be. Someone heavily Extroverted, for example, may have a natural tendency to leap before looking. However, if you've developed your auxiliary Introverted function (Ti, in this case), you probably have adopted some INTP-like traits. For example, Ti is a 'look before you leap' function, and it's also more intrinsically focused (well-developed Introverted functions normally are). You may have just developed that function more over time like I have, hence the similarities.

I took a test that gave me three possibilities (it was designed that way): #1 has always been ENTP; #2 has always been INTP; #3 has always been INTJ. I think Ne + Ti (when balanced right) can come across as some sort of Ni, hence why it seems I have a more developed Ni than most ENTPs (yet I still use Fe about as much as any other ENTP). My Ne and Ti almost always rank equally, with Ne getting a .01% dominance on some days. I take the test once every four or five months, sometimes varying it with other good tests. I also value the input from people that know me well (and the MBTI system), and they've confirmed my results over the years.

So yes, you can be a 'somewhat' solitary ENTP that wants to spread his/her ideas, but are unable to because nobody cares. Hence why I myself have become somewhat more cautious around people, observing them for about a month or two before seriously trying to speak to them. But that's life experiences at work, not personality.

When I did take the cognitive processes assessment, my (Ne), (Ni), (Te), and (Ti) levels were practically even. It offered me as an INTP or possibly an ENTP or INTJ as well.The slight preference was (Ne) followed by (Ti) and the latter two were about equal. I am still identifying more with the ENTP descriptions and thought processes. While I relish in my alone time, I think maybe I used "solitary" wrong, it makes me sound a bit more aloof than I am. XD I believe (as I stated) that spending my time alone is just a natural instinct/behavior from my 'only child syndrome' childhood. As long as I maintain contact with friends, whether by texting or otherwise, I'm okay spending long periods of time alone because I still have contact.

Also I'm inclined to babbling about my thoughts and ideas whether the listener cares or not. As long as I know a living body is there listening to my rambling, I can go for hours. Ironically I love to be the center of attention but I hate public speaking. If I imagine it, I would be comfortable sitting at a conference table and sharing my ideas, but I hate giving oral reports in my classes.

To be honest, I think a considerable amount of reserved behaviors stem from elementary school insecurities. I went through a phase years ago between 3rd-5th grades where I was not that kind to other children, in fact I was haughty and pushed a lot of people away. Out of the childish "I'll hurt you before you can hurt me." defense mechanism. It may seem irreverent but I believe it led to my somewhat introverted behaviors (not necessarily the alone time concept.)

How I relate to all of the ENTP characteristics and descriptions is almost uncanny. I actually have an ENTP friend that appears more cold on the outside but more impish and friendly on the inside (where as I am vice versa) Most people are surprised the first time they see how argumentative and fierce my debates are XD I honestly have no idea how people feel about me, but I can't imagine anyone hating me. I have a close group of seven friends and a larger group of acquaintances, but by no means am I a part of the so called 'party every night, popular crowd." I'm more dedicated to my grades...Does it make any sense that I'm discovering for myself as I type this, that people probably like me more than I'm aware of? ^^;

Thank you to everyone that offered their input, it all helped very much. I'm now certain I'm an ENTP based on the functions and descriptions. The MBTI helped me discover more about myself so I can effectively adress my smaller 'stage fright insecurities"
I just can't ignore my abundance of (Ne) followed by (Ti). Thanks again ^-^ I also do not have time o fix grammar again.

[NeedsNewNameNow]

I believe I was under the misconception that I am an introvert because I can go long periods of time alone without care. But this solitary carelessness could just be the result of being an only child by myself a lot. I am use to being in my own company so it's natural it doesn't bother me. Also, I am reserved around those I am not familiar with until I am done mentally analyzing them (a process which can take months) but ultimately I enjoy being around people I like, and gain energy from it. I often do not like my peers which is why I don't waste energy trying to befriend those I don't hold respect for. (While I am amicable when spoken to by them, I don't try to be their friend) But with people I take a liking to when I meet them, and friends: I am vivacious, bubbly, whimsical, funny, and empathetic. Could I have mistaken my common dislike for incompetence/ignorance in my peers, initial shyness, and solitary behaivor as introversion? I wouldn't know if I am well liked by most people, but I don't see why I wouldn't be.

I could have written this paragraph myself!

I also question whether I am really an ENTP who is not very social. It is hard to resolve the question one way or the other. I find I want alone time if I am pushed into too much socializing, but too much alone time I want to connect with people. I don't relate to the INTPs who say they can go days without social contact, I'm depressed by the second day. Because I don't connect with my peers, I am alone more than I am with people, so that makes me feel introverted.

[LilacForest]

I could have written this paragraph myself!

I also question whether I am really an ENTP who is not very social. It is hard to resolve the question one way or the other. I find I want alone time if I am pushed into too much socializing, but too much alone time I want to connect with people. I don't relate to the INTPs who say they can go days without social contact, I'm depressed by the second day. Because I don't connect with my peers, I am alone more than I am with people, so that makes me feel introverted.

Exactly! I have to know I have an option to be social, in order for me to go long periods of time alone. Contacting friends through Facebook, tumblr, texting and etc. is often enough for me to be okay, but I thrive on human contact more or less. If I feel cut off from the world I go into panic. Since being alone is customary instinct for me as an only child, being alone or being with friends are equal in terms of preference. I don't exactly prefer one over the other because I'm okay wherever I am.

I recall my first day of my Freshman year as what made me doubt my introvertedness. It was orientation and we needed to go on a 'scavanger hunt' to become acquainted with the building. I was actually joking and laughing to make my group members comfortable (since no one wanted to talk). I even took charge of the group! I was amazed at my own outgoingness! When I typed my last post I realized how many friends I have and was ahocked, I know that sounds pathetic.XD When I started reading the descriptions of ENTP child development I was shocked because no other type had fit so perfectly, quirks and all :D I now feel content knowing this is plausible and not unusual for an ENTP, thanks to everyone's insight.

[NeedsNewNameNow]

Exactly! I have to know I have an option to be social, in order for me to go long periods of time alone. Contacting friends through Facebook, tumblr, texting and etc. is often enough for me to be okay, but I thrive on human contact more or less. If I feel cut off from the world I go into panic. Since being alone is customary instinct for me as an only child, being alone or being with friends are equal in terms of preference. I don't exactly prefer one over the other because I'm okay wherever I am.

i know what u mean about panic! i dont like to be alone for too long, or i start feeling like friends will abandon me, or something. i work at a job that usually requires me to work alone, and I've always found myself being drawn to one social site or another to get me through my day. hmm, i wonder how long i can go without contract including electronic before i go stir crazy, maybe I'm no introvert at all?

I recall my first day of my Freshman year as what made me doubt my introvertedness. It was orientation and we needed to go on a 'scavanger hunt' to become acquainted with the building. I was actually joking and laughing to make my group members comfortable (since no one wanted to talk). I even took charge of the group! I was amazed at my own outgoingness! When I typed my last post I realized how many friends I have and was ahocked, I know that sounds pathetic.XD When I started reading the descriptions of ENTP child development I was shocked because no other type had fit so perfectly, quirks and all :D I nows feel content knowing this is plausible and not unusual for an ENTP, thanks to everyone's insight.

i can see that happening. i also feel my best when i can make people laugh, and i can let down my social inhibitions

[Dark Romantic]

@crystalxnight: The subjective vs. objective layer is actually a very good way to test if you're introverted or extraverted. Whenever information is coming in and a decision has to be made, do you prefer to rummage through all the data in your head in order to come to the best conclusion possible, or do you prefer to have the bottom line made clear right away, so you can act on it as quickly as possible?