Socionics

Socionics is a system of typology that explains how people select and process information. There are 16 sociotypes in socionics, each representing a distinct mode of information metabolism. Model A, a model of personality, illustrates how individuals process information using eight information elements across eight different functions. Each function in Model A has various characteristics, such as which functions are strong or valued. While the sequence of the eight functions is the same for all 16 types, the arrangement of the information elements linked to each function varies by type.

Information Elements

Introverted Logic (Ti)

Ti is linked to recognizing logical consistencies, generating classifications, and organizing understanding. It helps identify logical connections through instinctive feelings of validity. Those who value Ti often question commonly accepted beliefs and prefer making decisions based on personal experience rather than relying on external authorities. They respect individuals with clear and consistent opinions, believing that internal certainty is vital for navigating life. To them, personal standards of truth are more trustworthy than public consensus.

Extroverted Intuition (Ne)

Ne is typically linked to the ability to identify possibilities, create new opportunities, and embrace fresh starts. It involves recognizing talent and natural inclinations in others, reconciling differing viewpoints, quickly generating ideas, and being driven by intellectual curiosity while inspiring curiosity in others. Those who value Ne seek to expand their horizons and explore new possibilities, desiring the freedom to do whatever interests them without fear of missing out if they change their mind. They appreciate open-mindedness and avoid the rejection of ideas in case they might be mistaken.

Extroverted Logic (Te)

Te focuses on the external activities of objects, including the how, what, and where of events, actions, and behaviors. It perceives objective, factual information from the outside world and analyzes the rationale and functionality of statements and actions. To those who value Te, quality refers to how an object performs its intended functions. They assess a person as "effective" if they can achieve their goals without wasting energy or causing unwanted side effects, applying the same criteria to evaluate both people and things.

Introverted Intuition (Ni)

Ni is generally associated with the ability to perceive how events unfold over time by understanding the connections between them. Those value Ni often envision both the past and future, creating mental images and recognizing relationships between processes or objects. They tend to prefer having a clear plan for their future, leaving little room for "living in the moment." As a result, they engage in leisure activities for only brief periods, often choosing pursuits that are psychologically challenging or competitive. Additionally, they will acknowledge the value of their past, using it to guide their future choices.

Introverted Sensing (Si)

Si is linked to the ability to absorb sensations and fully experience them. It emphasizes the direct, tangible connections between processes occurring simultaneously, focusing on the physical sensory interactions between objects. This fosters an awareness of internal physical states as well as how various changes, like motion, temperature, or cleanliness, are transferred between objects. This contributes to a strong sense of health and balance with the environment, shaping perceptions of aesthetics, comfort, convenience, and pleasure. Si focuses on direct interaction and unity (or discordance) with their surroundings.

Extroverted Ethics (Fe)

Fe is typically associated with the capacity to identify and express passions, moods, and emotional states, creating experiences that evoke excitement and liveliness. It involves engaging emotionally in activities, understanding emotional interactions among individuals and groups, and fostering a sense of community and emotional unity. Types that value Fe can influence the moods of others, instilling their emotions and evoking specific feelings. This individual awakens the spiritual and emotional readiness of those around them, often aiming to instill beneficial emotional states for their pursuits.

Extroverted Sensing (Se)

Se encompasses the awareness of how much power, force, or influence is present or needed in a given situation. Those who value Se can sometimes come off as abrasive when trying to make an immediate impact, especially to those who do not prioritize Se. They are inclined to consider possibilities only if they believe there is something to gain or if it has a tangible impact on the real world. Focusing on obtaining a desired goal, they will often influence people and situations to accomplish such an aim instead of appreciating the circumstances they find themselves in.

Introverted Ethics (Fi)

Fi is linked to the capacity to intuitively understand the subjective 'distance' between individuals and form judgments based on that understanding. Those who prioritize Fi seek to build and nurture intimate, personal connections with their friends and family. They can assess character effectively, determining who is a good fit for them, which helps to foster stable relationships and differentiate between friends, foes, and associates. Their decisions are often influenced by their own feelings or the ones of those close to them, rather than considering how these choices impact the larger context, such as groups of people.

Understanding Model A

Ego Block

The first row of Model A, called the Ego block (functions 1 and 2), describes aspects of reality that individuals perceive clearly and express easily. This block reflects one's most comfortable and natural mindsets, behaviors, and perspectives. People often overuse these functions, applying them even in areas where they are barely relevant. These functions also offer the greatest endurance, allowing a person to use them for longer periods compared to other functions without feeling fatigued.

The leading function, known as the base or first function, is an individual's dominant psychic trait. It defines their preferred thinking patterns, outlook on life, and motivations—what they pursue most passionately. This function is crucial in interpersonal dynamics, as it shapes judgments and assumptions based on core values.

The creative function outlines how the base function is applied. While the base function is central to personal interests, the creative function serves as a tool for societal interaction. People use their creative function less often and with less significance, though it usually works alongside the base function. Criticism in this area tends to be more sensitive than in the base function. Its use can be frequent and effortless, but it fluctuates; one moment a person may be engaged, and the next indifferent.

Super-Ego Block

The second row of Model A, called the Super-Ego block (functions 3 and 4), refers to a limited, sort of "rejected" alternate to the Ego block. The psyche struggles to maintain energy through these functions for lasting results, causing disappointment and distress if they equate this development with self-worth. These functions are inflexible and often dismiss new information unless it comes from trusted sources or personal experience, making it hard for them to respond confidently and creatively in unfamiliar situations.

The role function is effectively disabled when someone is fully engaged in their base function, as they embody two opposing approaches to similar situations. The more one immerses themselves in their base function, the more the role function tends to be overlooked or repressed. People recognize this suppression and perceive it as a personal weakness.

The vulnerable function, known as the Point or Place of Least Resistance (PoLR), generates a sense of frustration and inadequacy. A person may not grasp the full significance of this element, which can result in painful consequences if not properly addressed. Directly engaging this function can evoke feelings of insecurity and distress. Due to these psychological barriers, people often tend to overlook information related to this function, sometimes even in situations where it is most pertinent.

Super-Id Block

The third row of Model A, called the Super-Id block (functions 5 and 6), often requires direct assistance as the individual views related tasks as better suited for others while also seeing them a frequent source of enjoyment. When sensing a void in life, they attempt to engage their Super Id functions, but this often proves ineffective, as it tends to come across as excessive and is typically underdeveloped.

The suggestive function, or "dual-seeking function," evokes feelings of indifference, treated as if it doesn't concern individuals. They unconsciously shift the responsibility of it onto others. They will take others' opinions and instructions at face value. When without guidance, they feel vulnerable and anxious, becoming upset with those who expect them to have their own opinions and make decisions in this area.

The mobilizing function, also referred to as the activating function or "hidden agenda" function, is more easily used than the suggestive function but can only be engaged occasionally. A natural imbalance in the mobilizing function may lead to either reckless indulgence or significant neglect. It's most effective when used to support the suggestive function. If too much of this element is present, it can lead to boredom or even aversion. It is considered a necessary aspect of a fulfilling life, but not a primary goal.

Id Block

The fourth row of Model A, called the Id block (functions 7 and 8), is frequently viewed as relatively easy to understand and carry out. However, people often find the exercise of these functions to be monotonous and lacking in substantial. Although working with ID elements can indeed serve as a valuable opportunity to refine and enhance one's skills, a significant number of individuals believe that it not deserve a high amount of attention or focus.

The ignoring function, also known as the observing or limiting function, is of minimal use to a person, as it stands in contrast to the primary function. It lies in the subconscious, often serving as a nagging irritation. As a result, individuals tend to overlook it. While extreme avoidance may make this function appear weak, when it is applied, it doesn't cause psychological distress: instead, it tends to evoke feelings of boredom or discontent.

The demonstrative function is typically engaged as a form of game or to ridicule those they believe take it too seriously. Individuals often deliberately misuse it to highlight their purpose. However, this element is frequently utilized in private to gather information that bolsters their creative function while trying connect with the outside world. They usually regard information associated with this element as obvious and not worth deep focus. People often use the demonstrative function to defend and reinforce their beliefs established in the vulnerable function.