It has surely happened to you to go through a day where someone deeply irritates you, yet you choose to remain silent, like a pressure cooker ready to burst. Yes, it’s something we all do from time to time. Some personalities even seem to have made it an art. In a survey, over 80,000 people were asked which personality types are most likely to suppress their emotions when they feel frustrated or overwhelmed by a situation. It’s not surprising to find that types like ISTJ excel in this area. But why? Let’s explore the reasons why these personality types tend to hold back their emotions and discover how they can release the pressure in a healthy way.
The Myers-Briggs® personality types resistant to expressing their emotions are those for whom feelings are seen as distractions. A majority of them, like the ISTJs, ESTJs, or even the INTJs, prefer logic and organization, often overshadowing emotions they deem unpredictable and somewhat disorderly.
In the case of ISTJs, for example, a tendency to maintain control prevails. Their main goal is to tackle problems systematically, making emotions an obstacle to deal with later. This rigid approach can make them appear calm and impassive in the eyes of others, but inside, they may feel an isolation due to a lack of emotional communion.
Similarly, INTJs prioritize rational analysis of situations. For them, emotional disturbances and efficiency do not go hand in hand. In this way, they often struggle to share their feelings, which do not seem productive or relevant within the scope of their strategic goals.
These personality types, while being effective and determined, could benefit from learning to embrace their emotions as a valuable input, thus fostering the improvement of their interpersonal relationships and alleviating potential internal resentments.
ISTJs: The Mastery of Repressed Emotions
Among the personalities that excel at keeping their emotions inside, ISTJs stand out. Their need for stability and their pragmatic approach often lead them to see emotions as a distraction. An angry or frustrated ISTJ will choose to focus their energy on finding solutions rather than expressing feelings. This leads to an outward appearance of calm and control, but can cause a feeling of internal isolation, where unshared emotions accumulate.
Legendary Inhibition by ISFJs
ISFJs are well known for their sensitivity and dedication to others. Yet, this same zeal to support others can lead to a suppressive response regarding their own feelings. Rather than disturbing the calm or risking hurting someone, an ISFJ will often prefer to bottle up their own frustrations. But this approach can cause stress and resentment, so ISFJs are encouraged to adopt practices such as writing in a journal to express what they feel in more private moments, allowing for healthier and more balanced emotional management.
INFPs and Their Hidden Emotions
The emotional intensity of INFPs is profound. These individuals often prefer to keep their feelings to themselves, only daring to share them if they deem the situation or person worthy of revealing this intimate treasure. An INFP may be immersed in inner reflections, meticulously analyzing each felt emotion. While this introspection is an asset, it can also be a burden if the emotions find no outlet. Art or creation often serves as a channel to unload these complex feelings without directly verbalizing them, thus preserving their unique sensitivity while avoiding emotional accumulation.
FAQ
Q: Which Myers-Briggs® personality types are most likely to repress their emotions?
A: The ISTJ type is particularly known for repressing their emotions, followed by ISTP, ISFJ, INFP, and INTJ.
Q: Why do some people repress their emotions rather than express them?
A: Many repress their emotions because they see feelings as an unnecessary distraction or because they struggle to express them correctly, preferring to focus on concrete actions.
Q: Are there strategies for these personality types to better manage their emotions?
A: Yes, strategies such as taking time for oneself, journaling, sharing with a trusted person, and artistic expression can help relieve accumulated emotional pressure.
Q: How do ISTJs perceive emotions?
A: ISTJs often see emotions as distractions that can disrupt their methodical and logical approach to tasks and daily life.
Q: What are some tips for INFPs to express their emotions?
A: INFPs can use artistic expression, such as writing or painting, and may ponder the origin of their emotions to better understand and express them.
Q: What are the characteristics of INTPs concerning emotions?
A: INTPs perceive emotions as difficult equations to solve and often prefer to analyze and understand them rather than express them immediately.
Q: How do ESTJs approach the emotions they feel?
A: ESTJs prefer to turn to practical solutions when faced with emotions and may need to vent their frustrations healthily to avoid accumulated tension.
Q: Why might ENFPs seem to keep their emotions to themselves?
A: ENFPs may choose to keep their emotions to themselves to avoid disturbing their natural enthusiasm and often prefer to turn to creative activities when faced with emotional stress.
