INTPs always appear to be logical and analytical. Yet, underneath this facade, they’re completely different people. Behind their reserved personality, they are actually soft-hearted and sensitive individuals. However, getting to know the dynamics of INTPs’ emotions may be challenging given their innate introversion.
This article aims to shed light on how INTPs react and process their emotions. Most importantly, we will be answering the question, “Are INTPs emotional and sensitive?”
Can INTPs Be Sensitive?
Because of INTPs’ dominant cognitive function Introverted Thinking (Ti), these introverts typically use their logic and reasoning to make informed decisions. Whereas their Extraverted Feeling (Fe) serves as an inferior function, making them prioritize rationality over social harmony.
Usually, especially in younger INTPs, this polarity makes them lean on logic but also undermines expressing their emotions.
INTPs can be sensitive, but you wouldn’t notice it because they effectively hide their emotions. They mask the hurt and pain through their reserved facade, so it doesn’t necessarily reflect physically.
As rational individuals, they still prioritize reasoning especially when emotions hit them. Rather than acknowledging their feelings, they think of a rational way to solve their troubles.
And to others, instead of giving emotionally-validating responses, INTP would rather ask questions, listen, and give logical advice, too. They show their compassion not through emotional vulnerability but through problem-solving.
Often, expressing their emotions would feel foreign. But the truth is, although these introverts believe in the saying ‘blunt is better’ in discussions and arguments, they can also be sensitive in reading the atmosphere wrong and being tone-deaf in people’s emotional needs.
That’s why when personal issues arise, they believe there is no one to blame but themselves and no one else must be burdened. They rarely ask others for help and keep these surging insecurities within themselves.
Additionally, thanks to INTPs’ Extroverted Intuition (Ne), they are sensitive enough to perceive the subtle emotional changes of the people surrounding them. However, their intellectualization of problems could also hinder them from giving adequate emotional support.
Do INTPs Cry?
Like any other individual, INTPs also cry. They get hurt regardless if they admit it to themselves or not. But unlike other MBTI personalities, INTPs hold back their tears as much as they can until they have to break down. And when they do, they ensure that they cry alone, without anyone to see their vulnerability.
One of the common emotional triggers that make INTPs cry is their fear of receiving social and emotional criticism. They’re scared of not handling relationships right, and burdening other people in the non-intellectual aspects of life. They worry they would read the room wrong, and that they don’t belong.
They are their worst critics and their expectations of themselves are typically higher than what others expect of them.
Are INTPs Emotionally Intelligent?
Mature INTPs can be emotionally intelligent, as they become more sensitive and aware of other people’s emotions. However, although they are well aware, they do not always respond in sensitive ways. Despite their easier time recognizing the meaning behind verbal and non-verbal cues, they still choose to speak based on what they think is logically right.
Furthermore, because of their Fi demon at the 8th cognitive spot, they may read other people’s emotions well, but they often don’t bother contemplating their own. This leads to their lack of emotional self-awareness than most of their introverted counterparts.
Conclusion
INTPs are sensitive to criticism, especially when it’s about their insecurities. As much as they appear to be distant from others, they are actually caring and sensitive introverts. It’s just that they show their vulnerabilities in different ways, by providing solutions rather than comfort.
INTPs’ dominant function enables them to solve problems without basing their choices on their emotions. And in a world where indecisiveness can arise, it’s a great thing INTPs have the resolve to bring forth rational solutions.
You may also like:
