INTJ: The Architect (Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging)

An Overview of the INTJ Personality Type

By Julia Simkus, published April 05, 2022

Fact checked by Saul Mcleod, PhD

INTJ (introversion, intuitive, thinking, judging) is a four-letter code acronym used to represent one of the 16 Myers-Briggs personality types.

People with the INTJ personality type tend to be highly independent, confident, and self-sufficient individuals. They are analytical, creative, and driven.

INTJs are sometimes referred to as “the Architect” or “the Scientist,” “the Strategist,” or “the Mastermind.” ESFP is the opposite of the INTJ personality type.

They place an emphasis on logic and fact rather than emotion and can be viewed as perfectionists. They typically have high expectations of competence and performance for themselves and others.

Famous INTJs include Hillary Clinton, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Stephen Hawking, Thomas Jefferson, Lance Armstrong, and Bill Gates.

INTJ is the third rarest type in the population, and the rarest type among women. INTJs make up:

• 2% of the general population
• 3% of men
• 1% of women

Key INTJ Characteristics

• INTJs are logical and analytical. They are intellectual problem-solvers who prioritize objective information over subjective emotion.

  They are sometimes considered “the Strategist” or “the Mastermind” because of their strategic, rational way of thinking. They have an ability to master any topic that interests them and are not satisfied unless their work succeeds.

• People with the INTJ personality type can be arrogant. They want their environment to feel controlled and ordered so they will make decisions without asking for anyone else’s input or thoughts. They overlook anyone they deem to be intellectually inferior and can be single-minded in their thinking.

  They will not follow anyone else's ideas or rules without understanding why. They can be impatient with people who don’t catch on as quickly as they’d like and tend to walk around with a bit of a superiority complex.

• INTJs are bold dreamers. They are innovative and creative, working relentlessly until they have achieved their definition of success. They believe they can achieve the most challenging goals and master any subjects that matter to them.

  They are determined in whatever they are doing and are constantly seeking new and creative ways to improve the world around them.

  While this is a strength of the INTJ personality, this natural determination and steadfastness can quickly become perfectionism which might take a toll on their personal lives outside of work.

Cognitive Functions of an INTJ

The MBTI suggests that the four different cognitive functions (thinking, feeling, intuition, and sensing) form a hierarchy where each function is either directed outwardly (extroverted) or inwardly (introverted). The order of these functions determines one’s personality.

The dominant function is the primary aspect of personality, while the auxiliary and tertiary functions play supportive roles.

INTJ Hobbies, Interests, and Careers

Because INTJs are so attuned to the feelings of others, they thrive in jobs in mental health or the healthcare industry. They also appreciate order and structure, so they are suited for jobs that involve careful attention to detail and adherence to clear-cut procedures.

They are hardworking and have an unshakable work ethic. Because of these skills, INTJs tend to succeed in management or administrative roles.

INTJ personality types also appreciate workplaces that are collaborative and team-oriented so when in a management role, they will aim to build a cohesive and productive environment.

Examples of some popular INTJ careers include social workers, office managers, teachers, childcare workers, or counselors. In their free time, INTJs enjoy cooking, gardening, painting, walking, and watching movies.

INTJ Work Environments

INTJs are deeply devoted to their work. They hold themselves to extremely high standards and excel in careers that require extreme productivity and the ability to evaluate complex information.

They enjoy creating innovative solutions and using their analytical skills to solve interesting problems, understand complex ideas, and create efficient systems.

They want careers that challenge them intellectually and allow them to innovate and expand their prowess. INTJs know how much they can offer the world so they want a career that will take advantage of their unique gifts.

They are typically drawn to the STEM fields, but they can also be found working in business or the arts. INTJs make great scientists, engineers, mathematicians, teachers, judges, and lawyers.

They also thrive in roles as project managers, systems engineers, marketing strategists, systems analysts, and management consultants.

In their free time, INTJs enjoy reading, cultural events, taking classes, appreciating art, computers and video games, and independent sports such as swimming, backpacking, or running.

INTJ Personal Relationships

INTJs value compatibility, both with friends and partners; however finding these compatible others tends to be difficult. INTJs are not interested in pursuing a relationship with anyone who does not share their same values and intellectual curiosity.

They are known for their low emotional intelligence and struggle to engage with feelings and respond to the emotional cues and needs of others. They are introverted individuals who spend a lot of time on their own and prefer to work independently.

They prioritize work and success over relationships and may have difficulty finding people who can keep up with them. Their work ethic can come at the expense of time that might be spent with family, friends, or partners.

Forming new friendships with an INTJ is challenging as people with this personality often dislike engaging in small talk.

However, they do care deeply about their closest friends and family and tend to dive into deep truths with these individuals.

Tips for Interacting With INTJs

Friendships

Establishing a friendship or relationship with an INTJ can be challenging as they are independent, self-sufficient individuals.

They tend to only get close to those with whom they know they will be able to maintain a long-term relationship.

Because of this, they are highly devoted to their small circle friends. They avoid drama and bond best with those who share their same values, interests, and general approach to life.

Relationships

INTJs tend to struggle with romantic relationships. Because they are so independent and closed off, INTJs’ partners often find it difficult to emotionally connect with them and finding a compatible partner can be challenging.

However, once they find the right person who matches their vigor and intellectual pursuits, INTJs are devoted and loyal partners.

They value a significant other that allows them the independence to achieve their goals and does not force them to discuss their emotions.

INTJs appreciate loyalty and understanding and value a partner that allows them to achieve their goals and passions.

Parenting

As parents, INTJs are devoted and thoughtful, setting firm boundaries and high expectations. They are typically not highly affectionate, but support their children by encouraging them to explore their own interests and potential.

They want to raise self-directed, independent children who are capable of solving their own problems and thinking for themselves.

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Sources

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