Beyond the 4 letters: Introducing the functions - the hidden driving force of a personality type

Cognitive functions in personality types represent the ways in which our consciousness decodes information and makes decisions — a kind of lens or antenna, so to speak, through which we perceive and interpret the world — an idea that originated in the work of psychiatrist and psychologist Carl Jung.

There exist two functions for percieving information:

The Sensing function, represented by the letter S — a sort of “lens” that takes in information from the immidiate surrondings. Operating similar to a magnifying glass, it allows us to notice many details in our vicinity for a close and clear view. This function focuses on concrete details, which are present here and now.

The iNtuition function, represented by the letter N — more similarto a “lens” suited for panoramic view or photographing landscapes. It can capture a great deal of the surroundings, but struggles picking up the smaller details such as the insect on the flower. This function helps see the big picture, patterns and connections.

To complement the two percieving functions there are also two functions for processing information:

The Thinking function, represented by the letter T — this function describes the decision-making process based on objective parameters: reason, logic, facts and rational analysis.

The Feeling function, represented by the letter F — this function is based on values, meanings, and interpersonal relationships.

Each of the 4 functions has two orientations.

An introverted orientation: the inner, personal world, directed toward the self — in which case the introverted function is marked with a lowercase 'i'.

An extroverted orientation — the external world, directed toward others — in which case it is marked with a lowercase 'e'.

This gives us the 8 cognitive functions:

Se — Direct perception of the present reality through the senses.

What is seen, heard, and experienced.

There is a high sensitivity to physical details and pace.

The function entails a tendency toward quick action and real-time adaptation to the environment, having a desire for direct and authentic experience. 

Si — Operates through comparison with memories and past experiences, accumulated experience and familiar impressions.

It searches for consistency and accuracy through what has already been evaluated.

It serves in the creation of a sense of security through routines and deep familiarity with details over time. 

Ne — Identifying possibilities, potential and patterns.

Seeing “what else could be” and connecting between different fields as well as recognizing connections.

Creativity, movement and dynamic operation in many directions of various ideas.

Ni — Seeing direction and purpose.

Introspection in order to identify deep patterns and meaning over time.

Creating insights and a sense of direction and inner knowing.

It has less to do with focus on details and more with the essence of things, symbolism and the 'big picture'.

Te — Organization and decision-making based on facts, efficiency, and measurable results. Practical logical application, planning, and execution.

It strives for order, structure and progress toward a goal.

Ti — Internal analysis of logic and logical consistency.

It builds precise and consistent internal logical systems.

This function raises the question: Is this true?

A tendency toward deep analysis, conceptual precision, and understanding how things work.

Fe — The function directed toward social harmony and relationships between people through an understanding of social norms.

Attentivness to atmosphere, the needs of others and emotional influence.

It is a decision-making that takes into consideration groups and relationships.

Fi — Focus on personal values, authenticity, and inner identity.

This function raises the questions: “What is right by me? what feels true and moral?"

It has a tendency toward emotional depth and inner consistency, even when it does not fit the surrounding environment.

 

What is the meaning of the function's order in a personality type?

 

First function: Dominant function — This is the type’s gift — the thing they are best at and do most of the time. It is what feels most natural to us, and sometimes it baffels us that other people are capable of living differently.

Second function: Auxiliary function — It supports the first function and balances it. If the first function is introverted and takes in information, the second function will help put things into action. It will have the opposing  attitude and orientation to the first.

Third function: Tertiary function — This is the function that usually develops in us later. It has the same orientation as the first function, so we may feel a certain fondness for it, and it also provides important input that helps balance the second function; in the end, the second function will probably “win.”
For introverts, this function is sometimes “shy” or “uncertain” — they percieve it as private, though they may reveal it to others. For extroverts, this function is sometimes “ambitious” — they may not use it to the best of their ability, but that will not stop them from trying.

Fourth function: Inferior function — Usually develops in later stages of life. It is something we may not like or may even dispice when we are younger. Too much of it can create stress for us. Later in life, we may learn to appreciate the difference or opposite that this function brings with it as well — the additional possibilities it offers us for development.

 

Personality Hacker have a nice way of describing the functions — they call it the Car Model.
The first function is the parent who drives, the second is another parent who helps the driver — perhaps looking at the map, checking things, and so on. The third is a 10-year-old child: On the one hand, the child is already mature enough to talk and at times even say smart and interesting things, perhaps even help the parents, but it is still a child, so ultimately we will not let them drive the car and make decisions. The fourth function is the little baby in the car — we definitely will not let the baby drive, and if the baby wakes up and starts crying, it is probably time to stop the car and take care of them, because otherwise it will be very hard to keep driving.