The Greatness and Challenges of INTP Friendships: Insight into Their Traits and Treatment of Friends

As a valued member of a friend group, you may have heard that INTPs (Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Perceiving personality type) are some of the kindest and most reliable friends. They are known for their unwavering loyalty and are always there to support you through thick and thin. Yet, like all personalities, INTPs come with their own set of traits and ways of treating their friends that both challenge and add value to their friendships.

Kindness and Loyalty

INTPs are typically seen as the type of friends who will remain steadfast in their support regardless of the circumstances. Many individuals who have INTP friends report that they can count on them for emotional and practical support through difficult periods. INTPs are often those who are willing to listen without judgment, offering wisdom and guidance based on their analytical mindset. This makes them reliable friends who can be depended upon for crucial advice and companionship.

Absent-Mindedness and Trust

However, making friends as an INTP is not without its challenges. One common trait is absent-mindedness. This can make INTPs seem spacey or detached, which can sometimes frustrate those who value this quality. For instance, an INTP might miss important moments such as birthdays and anniversaries. This absent-mindedness can create a slight rift in relationships, as friends often value remembering these significant dates. It is important for INTPs to find a balance, perhaps setting reminders or logging important dates in a digital calendar.

The Search for Truth and Solutions

Another challenging aspect of INTP friendships is their tendency toward truthfulness and a commitment to seeking solutions. When faced with a problem, INTPs will exhaust all possibilities and may not hesitate to share their findings, even if it leads to tough love or difficult conversations. While this approach often stems from a place of care and concern, it can also make INTPs difficult friends to be around if someone is engaging in harmful behaviors. The INTP will not stay silent in such situations, which can result in a friend bearing the consequences of their actions.

Friendship as a Priority

Putting friendships aside to watch a loved one destroy their life, whether through substance abuse, self-harm, or other harmful behaviors, is a reality that INTPs face. It's a painful dilemma, as they prioritize their values and principles over the well-being of their friends. While it might be tempting to turn a blind eye or excuse harmful behavior, the INTP's commitment to ethical living often dictates that they address the issue head-on, even at the cost of the friendship.

How INTPs Treat Their Friends

Despite the challenges, INTPs often treat their friends in a caring and thoughtful manner. They prioritize honesty and integrity in their relationships, valuing transparency and trust. INTPs are known for their intellectual conversations and can provide unique perspectives on life. However, they also understand the importance of emotional support and are willing to be there for their friends when they need it most.

Conclusion

INTPs bring a wealth of value to their friendships with their loyalty, honesty, and willingness to help. While their tendencies to forget important dates and their commitment to truth can sometimes pose challenges, they make up for it with their unwavering support and well-informed guidance. Whether you are an INTP or a friend of an INTP, understanding these traits can help strengthen and enrich your relationships.

Keywords

INTP: A personality type characterized by introversion, intuition, thinking, and perceiving.

Friendships: Relationships between friends, characterized by mutual trust, support, and affection.

Truthfulness: A commitment to speaking the truth, even if it is difficult.

Kindness: The quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.