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Judging vs. Perceiving Preference

Judging (J) and Perceiving (P) are how you interact with the world outside yourself, either in a structured or flexible manner. Judging and Perceiving are opposite preferences. A person’s natural tendency toward one will be stronger than the other.

Judgers and Perceivers each make up roughly half of the population, with there being slightly fewer Perceivers. Males are somewhat more perceiving than females on average.

Judging (J)

Judging people think sequentially. They value order and organization. Their lives are scheduled and structured. Judging people seek closure and enjoy completing tasks. They take deadlines seriously. They work then they play. The Judging preference does not mean judgmental. Judging refers to how a person deals with day-to-day activities.

Judging Characteristics

  • Decisive
  • Controlled
  • Good at finishing
  • Organized
  • Structured
  • Scheduled
  • Quick at tasks
  • Responsible
  • Likes closure
  • Makes plans

Judging Personality Types

Perceiving (P)

Perceivers are adaptable and flexible. They are random thinkers who prefer to keep their options open. Perceivers thrive with the unexpected and are open to change. They are spontaneous and often juggle several projects at once. They enjoy starting a task better than finishing it. Deadlines are often merely suggestions. Perceivers play as they work.

Perceiving Characteristics

  • Adaptable
  • Relaxed
  • Disorganized
  • Care-free
  • Spontaneous
  • Changes tracks midway
  • Keeps options open
  • Procrastinates
  • Dislikes routine
  • Flexible

Perceiving Personality Types