Understanding MBTI Cognitive Function Stacks: Debunking a Confusing Questionnaire Result

Have you ever encountered a questionnaire that presents cognitive functions in an impossible order, leaving you puzzled and wondering about your true MBTI type? This article delves into the intricacies of cognitive function stacks and provides insights based on a specific example. We'll explore the implications of an incorrect cognitive function order, its significance, and how to interpret ambiguous test results.

Understanding Cognitive Function Stacks

Cognitive functions, as explained by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), must be layered in a specific order to form a valid cognitive function stack. These functions align according to the following patterns:

introverted-extroverted-introverted-extroverted (I-E-I-E) or first extroverted (E) or second extroverted (E) thinking/feeling-sensing/intuitive (T/F-S/N/I)

For instance, a stack like Ti-Ne Ni Si, Te Fe Fi, Se is considered incorrect because it does not follow these guidelines.

Interpreting the Example

Consider this example: An individual's cognitive function stack was given as Ti-Ne Ni Si-Te Fe Fi-Se. This order is problematic for a few reasons:

It does not follow the correct order for the four functions (I-E-I-E). It does not follow the correct order for thinking/feeling-sensing/intuitive (T/F-S/N/I). It does not specify the correct sequence for tertiary, quaternary, and senary functions.

Upon examination, the most likely valid stack would be Ni-Fe-Ti-Se, which aligns with the INFP (Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving) type.

The IMPROBABLE SOLUTIONS

Given the constraints of cognitive function stacking, it's improbable to decode an order such as presented. However, understanding the permissible sequences can help in formulating a more accurate interpretation. For instance:

INTP (Introverted-Thinking-Extroverted-Perceiving): A person with a strong introverted thinking function (Ti) and high dominance in sensing information (Se). INTJ (Introverted-Intuitive-Thinking-Judging): A strong introverted intuitive function (Ni) with a dominant extroverted thinking function (Te). ISFP (Introverted-Feeling-Sensing-Perceiving): A type characterized by introversion, feeling, sensing, and perception, suggesting strong introverted feeling function (Fi) and sensing function (Se).

Based on the example provided, the type most likely to be correctly interpreted is INFP (Introverted-Intuitive-Feeling-Perceiving).

The Importance of Questionnaire Reliability

When dealing with personality assessments, reliability and accuracy are paramount. The existence of ambiguously ordered cognitive function stacks is concerning, as it can mislead participants about their true nature. It’s crucial to critically evaluate the tools used in such assessments.

The questionnaire in question, despite being designed to confound, offers insights into the respondent's cognitive functions. The results indicate a strong inclination towards Ni (Introverted Intuitive thinking) but also touching on Fe (Extroverted Feeling), Ti (Introverted Thinking), and Se (Sensing) in varying degrees.

A Personal Reevaluation

The author of the article decided to retake a popular personality test, specifically the 16 Personalities test, to reassess their results. The motivations behind such re-evaluation include:

Ensuring that current knowledge reflects recent personal growth. Validating or correcting past discrepancies in test results. Understanding the nuances of the test questions and their interpretations.

The latest test results, although detailed and insightful, still pose challenges in aligning with the specific cognitive function ordering asked in the initial example. However, the results reaffirm the importance of understanding the test's language and the cognitive functions involved.

Conclusion and Final Interpretation

The cognitive function stack example presented initially illustrates the complexity and challenges in interpreting personality test results. Given the structured nature of cognitive functions, a stack like Ti-Ne Ni Si-Te Fe Fi-Se is either accidental, misleading, or a deliberate confusion tactic. Based on an understanding of MBTI types and cognitive functions, the most plausible interpretation aligns with INFP.

In conclusion, while personality assessments can provide valuable insights, it's essential to critically evaluate the methodology and ensure that interpretations are grounded in a sound understanding of the underlying principles. The Mi-Ne Ni Si-Te Fe Fi-Se stack is more likely to be a form of confusion or an invalid result, leading to the best possible interpretation as ISFP.